Οι καλύτερες διαδρομές τρεξίματος στην Πορτογαλία

The Monument to the Discoveries, popularly known as Padrão dos Descobrimentos, is a monument built in 1960, on the banks of the Tagus River, in Belém, Lisbon, to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator.

This viewpoint is also worth seeing for sunrise. However, the path from the parking lot at Rio Arieiro to the start of the Ninho da Manta trail was completely icy when we were there. It only became passable once the sun thawed the ice.

This is the only place to stop for refreshments on the hike. The well-stocked bar offers snacks as well as a variety of beers, including a Franziskaner dark wheat beer. Tickets for whale watching, snorkeling, and kayaking can also be purchased here.

From here it's a steep climb up to the 25 springs.

There's always something going on here at the harbor. Especially when the cruise ships are docked and the crowds flock to the city. First, most people storm the CR7 Museum, which is right on the pier where these huge ships are docked.

The Levada do Caldeirão Verde leads you along a narrow path beside the water through dense laurel forest, past steep cliffs and deep gorges. Along the way, you'll encounter several short tunnels and breathtaking views that create a true sense of adventure. Be sure to bring a headlamp/phone light and sturdy shoes, as the path is often wet and slippery.

At the junction of Vereda da Ilha and the path to Pico Ruivo, you'll find an important landmark amidst the mountains. Here you can briefly decide whether to continue towards the summit or descend into the valley – all while enjoying the panoramic views of the ridges and valleys. It's the perfect moment for a short break, a drink of water, and a photo of the trail markers against the mountain backdrop.

The Pico Ruivo mountain hut lies just below the summit and is the perfect spot for a break in the thin mountain air. Here you can take shelter, have something to eat, refill your water bottles, and gather your strength for the final ascent. It's ideal for enjoying the view of the surrounding ridges before continuing on to Madeira's highest point.