Portugal in October is all about being outdoors. Summer crowds are long gone, the sun still lingers in the south and the west welcomes powerful waves with skilled surfers in tow. To admire the landscape in all its golden glory, hike or bike around Alentejo and the Algarve or enjoy serene sightseeing in Lisbon. Alternatively, call in the wine season with a trip to the verdant vineyards of Douro Valley. Feeling inspired? Read on for our favourite reasons to visit Portugal in October…
Cycling season
First up on our list of reasons to visit Portugal in October are the scenic cycle routes. Chase the sun to the south of the country and head to Alentejo, Portugal’s largest region. While you’re here, trace the beachside bike trails through Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park for views of honey-hued sands and charming villages (Porto Covo and Zambujeira do Mar are pretty pitstops). Fancy a more adrenaline-filled experience? Opt for a private off-road jeep tour along the Alentejo’s costal trails.
Image by Olivier Romano
Surfing swells
With its warm waters and seriously impressive waves, surfing is one of our favourite reasons to visit Portugal in October. Grab a board and head to Ericeira, just half an hour from the country’s capital, Lisbon. Declared Europe’s first World Surfing Reserve in 2011, Ericeira is famed for its iconic surf breaks. Among them is Coxos, a consistent right-point wave that follows the shoreline's shape and breaks over a rocky reef. If you find yourself in the historic port town of Peniche, keep an eye out for the Rip Curl Pro competition. It’s held annually in October at Supertubos Beach – one of Portugal’s top surf spots.
Image by Olivier Romano
Douro Valley harvest
October is grape harvest season in Douro Valley – need we say more? Sip your way through one of the world’s oldest wine regions (and a UNESCO World Heritage site) while exploring thousands of acres of flourishing vineyards. Then, hop in a 4X4 and enjoy an off-the-beaten-track tour of the Douro Valley’s most scenic spots as you learn about the region’s rich wine history. Round off your trip with a wine-tasting experience at Quinta do Panascal and soak in the lush vineyards while savouring traditional ports (we’re strong supporters of hands-on learning).
Image by Gunnar Knechtel/LAIF-REA
Colourful hikes
Crisp morning hikes in autumn’s golden glow are one of the many reasons to visit Portugal in October. One of our favourites? Tracing the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail across the limestone cliffs from Praia da Marinha to Praia do Vale de Centeanes on the Algarve Coast. Along the way, you’ll pass over the Benagil Caves, where you can take a boat trip from Praia de Benagil for a sneak peek inside. For a village-to-village walk, crunch through the fallen leaves on the Piodao to Foz d’Egua loop. Wander through dense woodlands, cross stone bridges and pass glistening streams to reach Foz d'Egua, then retrace your steps back (make sure to snap any pictures you missed the first time around).
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City sightseeing
Skip the rainy north and stick to Lisbon for balmy days and cultural sightseeing in October. Get to grips with the city’s artistic side with a private walking tour of the capital’s colourful street art, featuring the works of artists like Vhils and Osgemeos. Wrap up your cultural trip at LX Factory, in the far west of the city, where you can nose around the trendiest bars, restaurants and shops. Without the summer crowds, October is also a great time to explore the cobblestone streets and follow the scent of roasted chestnuts, which are served hot from streetside stalls.
Image by Olivier Romano
Written by Amy Larsen | Header image by AlbyDeTweedeGetty Images/iStockphoto
