10-Day Nature Itinerary in Portugal

• Day 1-2: Explore Lisbon's nature spots
  Lisbon has many stunning parks and gardens, like the Jardim Botânico, where you can see local and exotic plants, and the Parque Eduardo VII. Take a day trip to Sintra, a picturesque town surrounded by lush forests, to visit the romantic Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, a mystical garden with hidden tunnels and grottoes.
• Day 3-4: Hike the Rota Vicentina
  Visit the western Algarve for the rugged trails of the Rota Vicentina, a network of paths that follow the coast and the countryside. Start at the town of Odeceixe and hike to the beach of Amoreira for breathtaking views. Rest at charming guesthouses and try local specialties like seafood rice, cataplana, and pastéis de nata.
• Day 5-6: Birdwatch in the Alentejo
  The Alentejo region is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and the Mira River, where you can spot rare bird species like the black stork, the ibis, and the white-headed duck. Stay at a farm or a winery and taste wines from the Alentejo Wine Route, like the rich and fruity reds made with the grape variety Trincadeira.
• Day 7-8: Kayak in the Douro Valley
  The Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its terraced vineyards, but also for its river, the Douro, that offers great opportunities for water sports. Rent a kayak and paddle among the granite cliffs, the olive groves, and the almond trees that flank the river banks. Take a winery tour and taste port wine, the sweet and fortified wine that is aged in barrels for several years.
• Day 9-10: Explore Madeira's levadas
  Madeira is an island in the Atlantic Ocean that boasts a lush and diverse vegetation, thanks to its sub-tropical climate and volcanic soil. The levadas are the irrigation channels that carry water from the highlands to the coast, and they are also the paths that allow hikers to explore the island's interior. Walk along the levadas and admire the laurel forests, the waterfalls, and the panoramic views of the ocean. Try the espada, a fish that is unique to Madeira and is often served with banana.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Lisbon parks and gardens (2 days, free)
• Sintra day trip (1 day, €30)
• Rota Vicentina hike (2 days, €150)
• Alentejo birdwatching (2 days, €200)
• Douro kayaking (2 days, €250)
• Madeira levadas (2 days, €100)
Total Estimated Costs: €730

Transportation

Portugal has an efficient public transportation system, with trains, buses, and trams that connect the major cities and towns. You can buy a rechargeable card called Viva Viagem and use it in all modes of transport. The prices vary according to the distance and the type of transport, but on average a train ride costs €10 and a bus ride costs €5. Taxis and Ubers are also available but they can be more expensive.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Azores, an archipelago of nine volcanic islands that offer volcanic craters, hot springs, and whale watching. If you have less time, skip the Douro Valley or Madeira and focus on the Algarve or the Alentejo. You can also mix and match the itineraries according to your preferences and fitness level, as some hikes and activities require more stamina and experience. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle.