Relaxing on a terrace in the Portuguese sunshine, you take a sip of local wine and soak up the wonderful views across the rolling vine-covered landscape. You might reflect that the difference between summer and winter in this beautiful region is a question of clothes and crowds – a few more layers seem a small price to pay for a lot more peace and quiet. Because with its relatively mild Mediterranean climate, winter in Portugal sometimes feels more like spring: some areas get around 300 days of sunshine with an average winter temperature of 16ºC (61°F), especially in the Algarve (southern Portugal). It’s a time of year when, without the tourist throngs, Portugal’s landscapes and traditions are at their most authentic. And there’s still plenty to enjoy.
Watching the relentless Atlantic waves crash onto the sands of Portugal’s blissfully quiet beaches is mesmerizing in winter. In Alentejo, the coastline stretches as far as your eye can see, and strolling its shore you may feel like the only person for miles – bringing a deeper connection to nature. While it’s sometimes still warm enough to lie on the beach, a bracing shoreline walk is a perfect excuse to indulge in a hot chocolate from a seaside café in one of the charming coastal villages. With fewer visitors, you might have more time to strike up a conversation with the locals.
For a more vigorous hike, the dramatic cliffs of the Algarve have loads of coastal treks through spectacular scenery that you can enjoy all the more without the crowds.
Lagoa’s famous Seven Hanging Valleys Trail takes in some of the region’s most striking sights with sandy beaches, hidden coves and stunning rock formations that enchantingly seem to change color through the day. And make the most of being so far west to enjoy the stunning winter sunsets over the Atlantic – sharing a sight that has captivated humans for thousands of years.
Portugal’s environmentally significant wetlands offer a wonderfully different experience of nature. Stretches of glimmering waters punctuated by yellow-green grasses swaying in the winds, winter adds a delightfully atmospheric texture to these extraordinary havens for wildlife. With its peaceful ambiance, the wetlands inspire the patience to seek out the wintering birds that can bring nature-lovers a rare encounter they will remember forever.
And few will ever forget the adrenaline rush of plunging into Portugal’s amazing winter surfing scene! The sunny weather, long coastline and reliable waves mean you’ll always have plenty of options for catching a strong breaker off a serene beach. Back on land, feel the thrill of a perfect shot on one of Portugal’s famously picturesque golf courses that are playable all year round.
Alternatively, take to two wheels and enjoy the crisp air and wonderful light of a winter ride on quieter roads – whether cycling the popular Lisbon to Sintra route with its coastal views and well-paved cycling paths or exploring the Douro Valley with its rolling landscape, charming villages and beautiful vineyards.
Because winter in Portugal brings the wonderful opportunity to enjoy a brisk activity and then indulge in the local cuisine or a cozy wine tasting in a local vineyard – exploring the delights of the country’s famously good wines. These are the ideal accompaniment to the region’s seasonal specialties like freshly roasted chestnuts or hearty, warming dishes like caldo verde A winter’s evening spent in the intimate surroundings of a traditional Fado tavern letting the mournful music wash through your soul, forges deep connections to Portugal and its people, leaving lasting memories of a perfect winter vacation.
Because winter in Portugal is perfect: it’s not only generally cheaper, but it’s also more sustainable and responsible traveling outside of peak season. And the tranquility of its countryside with its quieter roads, trails and beaches feels uplifting and restorative – helping you enjoy your vacation even more.
