Guided walking and hiking holidays in stunning Central Portugal tailored to suit you. Portugal is an area of outstanding beauty on the edge of Europe. Central Portugal is one of the less tourist intensive areas of Portugal. Bordered by the beaches of the Atlantic coast with mountain ranges, national parks, castles and enchanting villages. Kind friendly people, wonderful local wines and delicious traditional food. With an annual average of 290 days of sunshine per year, it is the perfect place for a walking holiday.
Historical walks
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Portuguese camino
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Sanctuary of Fatima
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We offer private guided tours with local guides living in the area. Delivering our tours at your pace.
We meet you at your accommodation each morning and take you to explore the regions secrets and history with a personal touch.
We meet you at your accommodation each morning and take you to explore the regions secrets and history with a personal touch.
How it works
Base: Your guided walking holiday begins in the enchanting, historic Knights Templar city of Tomar, located 120km north of Lisbon. You arrange your own flights to and from Lisbon, and we will take care of you from the moment you land until your departure.
Transport: We offer a hassle-free transfer service from Lisbon airport directly to your accommodation in Tomar. Alternatively, you can take a direct train from Lisbon to Tomar which takes approximately two hours. If you are travelling by car, the journey takes approximately one and a half hours from Lisbon to Tomar. Transfers from Porto Airport also available.
Daily Guided Walks: Each morning , we will pick you up from your accommodation and drop you back after your day's walk. Your walking day can be tailored to suit your preferences or those of your group. We are flexible and open to discussing any changes you would like to make to the schedule. We offer one day guided walks starting from two persons upwards.
Base: Your guided walking holiday begins in the enchanting, historic Knights Templar city of Tomar, located 120km north of Lisbon. You arrange your own flights to and from Lisbon, and we will take care of you from the moment you land until your departure.
Transport: We offer a hassle-free transfer service from Lisbon airport directly to your accommodation in Tomar. Alternatively, you can take a direct train from Lisbon to Tomar which takes approximately two hours. If you are travelling by car, the journey takes approximately one and a half hours from Lisbon to Tomar. Transfers from Porto Airport also available.
Daily Guided Walks: Each morning , we will pick you up from your accommodation and drop you back after your day's walk. Your walking day can be tailored to suit your preferences or those of your group. We are flexible and open to discussing any changes you would like to make to the schedule. We offer one day guided walks starting from two persons upwards.
Accommodation in Portugal
Our personally vetted accommodations offer great value compared to other Western European countries. Most options include air-conditioning, TV, free Wi-Fi, and en-suite bathrooms. Whether you choose a cozy, clean hotel or a luxurious one with unique charm, breakfast—consisting of fresh local produce—is included.
Accommodation Options: We offer a wide range of accommodation options in Tomar, from two to five star hotels, hostels or self-catering.
Hotels
Ranging from two to five stars, hotels vary from charming historic buildings to luxury resorts. Centrally located, they provide easy access to sights. Booking early is advised during peak seasons.
Self-Catering Townhouses
Four-star townhouse self-catering accommodations offer flexibility and comfort, perfect for longer stays or family vacations.
Hostels
Growing in popularity, hostels offer double, twin, and dorm rooms. Boutique city hostels are stylish and conveniently located, with some offering family or en-suite double rooms.
Check out our list of Accommodations
Our personally vetted accommodations offer great value compared to other Western European countries. Most options include air-conditioning, TV, free Wi-Fi, and en-suite bathrooms. Whether you choose a cozy, clean hotel or a luxurious one with unique charm, breakfast—consisting of fresh local produce—is included.
Accommodation Options: We offer a wide range of accommodation options in Tomar, from two to five star hotels, hostels or self-catering.
Hotels
Ranging from two to five stars, hotels vary from charming historic buildings to luxury resorts. Centrally located, they provide easy access to sights. Booking early is advised during peak seasons.
Self-Catering Townhouses
Four-star townhouse self-catering accommodations offer flexibility and comfort, perfect for longer stays or family vacations.
Hostels
Growing in popularity, hostels offer double, twin, and dorm rooms. Boutique city hostels are stylish and conveniently located, with some offering family or en-suite double rooms.
Check out our list of Accommodations
Options
Option one: Choose your own walking holiday.
1. Select the number of days you want to walk and the desired routes.
2. Let us know the number of people in your group.
3. Inform us of your arrival method (e.g., airport transfer, train, bus or self-drive).
4. We can arrange accommodation for you, or you're welcome to book your own preferred choice.
5. Provide us with your arrival and departure dates.
Once we have this information we will send you a quote.
Option two: Avail of our 5 day walking week holiday.
Group tours: Our expertise lies in organizing bespoke group tours catering to walkers, hikers, trekkers, strollers, and ramblers.
Option two prices include:
Accommodation with breakfast, bus transfers to and from Lisbon airport, transport and guide for five days walking, walking insurance and all local sales and tourist taxes. Flights and private holiday insurances are not included.
Mix and match: Feel free to mix and match between longer and shorter walks to create your perfect walking holiday.
We have carefully created a set of walks that offer a unique way to experience the best of Central Portugal. Our selection includes mountain, beach, historical, Camino and pilgrimage walks, each promising a new adventure every day. Our knowledgeable guides will accompany you on each walk, sharing their insights into the local flora and fauna and answering your questions. We are flexible, and if you wish to modify the length of the walks, we are happy to accommodate your preferences. All our tours are conducted in English.
We are running some guided one week walking tours in Portugal in 2025 for singles, couples or smaller groups who wish to join up with other walkers.
5 days guided walking with 6 nights stay. We still have some availability for the following dates:
May 7th - 13th, June 11th - 17th, September 10th - 16th, October 8th - 14th
Get ready to explore the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of Central Portugal with us. Let us know your preferences, and we will make sure your walking holiday is an unforgettable experience.
Option one: Choose your own walking holiday.
1. Select the number of days you want to walk and the desired routes.
2. Let us know the number of people in your group.
3. Inform us of your arrival method (e.g., airport transfer, train, bus or self-drive).
4. We can arrange accommodation for you, or you're welcome to book your own preferred choice.
5. Provide us with your arrival and departure dates.
Once we have this information we will send you a quote.
Option two: Avail of our 5 day walking week holiday.
Group tours: Our expertise lies in organizing bespoke group tours catering to walkers, hikers, trekkers, strollers, and ramblers.
Option two prices include:
Accommodation with breakfast, bus transfers to and from Lisbon airport, transport and guide for five days walking, walking insurance and all local sales and tourist taxes. Flights and private holiday insurances are not included.
Mix and match: Feel free to mix and match between longer and shorter walks to create your perfect walking holiday.
We have carefully created a set of walks that offer a unique way to experience the best of Central Portugal. Our selection includes mountain, beach, historical, Camino and pilgrimage walks, each promising a new adventure every day. Our knowledgeable guides will accompany you on each walk, sharing their insights into the local flora and fauna and answering your questions. We are flexible, and if you wish to modify the length of the walks, we are happy to accommodate your preferences. All our tours are conducted in English.
We are running some guided one week walking tours in Portugal in 2025 for singles, couples or smaller groups who wish to join up with other walkers.
5 days guided walking with 6 nights stay. We still have some availability for the following dates:
May 7th - 13th, June 11th - 17th, September 10th - 16th, October 8th - 14th
Get ready to explore the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of Central Portugal with us. Let us know your preferences, and we will make sure your walking holiday is an unforgettable experience.
Our Longer Walks - 14km to 30km
For those seeking a more immersive experience, our extended walks offer longer routes that allow you to delve deeper into the stunning landscapes and rich history of Central Portugal. Spend extra time exploring hidden gems, enjoying the tranquility of nature, and fully appreciating the diverse beauty of the region. These walks are designed for those who relish a longer adventure and are ready to embrace the extended journey.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, our extended walks offer longer routes that allow you to delve deeper into the stunning landscapes and rich history of Central Portugal. Spend extra time exploring hidden gems, enjoying the tranquility of nature, and fully appreciating the diverse beauty of the region. These walks are designed for those who relish a longer adventure and are ready to embrace the extended journey.
Walking the old railway line
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Porto de Mós - 13 km. 3.5 hours approx. Altitude 400m.This walk takes you along the tracks of an old railway line that was used for transporting coal from the Bezerra mines to nearby Porto de Mós. There is a wide variety of flora and fauna along the way. The first half of the route is high, overlooking the valley up to the point where it meets the foot of a range of hills that make up the Central National Park. At the end of the upper line you emerge from the tunnel into the sunlight where wind mills mark the summit. A picnic area invites you to take a break before starting down the lower line where the scenery changes completely.
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Walking the Portuguese Camino
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Caminho Portugues - 30km. 7 hours approx. Altitude 200mThis walk is part of the Camino de Santiago – a route that eventually takes the traveler to Northwest Spain to the tomb of St James at Santiago de Compostella. The Road of St James (one of the oldest pilgrimage routes in the world), from Lisbon, has been walked over many centuries by hundreds of thousands of pilgrims. The Caminho Portuguese is less well known than the other routes to Santiago through France and Spain, but it is becoming increasingly popular, as it is much quieter. This walk starts at the town of Golega, the horse capital of Portugal and passes through some spectacular Knights Templar regions.
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Mountain top views
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Serra D'Aire - 14 km. 4 hours approx. Altitude 650m.
This walk is in a National Park, in an area formed during the Middle and Lower Jurassic periods. We follow mountain paths and trails on a route of great scenery and natural interests. This route is filled with vegetation and plant species characteristic to this area with panoramic views at the highest point. Limestone rock formations and underground salt pans cover this mountainous region.
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Visit Fatima
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Fatima - 30 km. 6-7 hours approx. Altitude 400m.
This walk links Tomar to Fátima, the largest pilgrimage center in Portugal. This route crosses mountains (with some physical difficulty) and is very rich in flora and fauna. It goes through towns and villages with a long history and tradition associated with pilgrims. This route is mainly alongside fields and farmlands and brings you into contact with the real Portugal. A place where there is still time to stop and reflect. Visit the sanctuary of Fatima at the end of the walk.
*We also provide private 1-3 hr guided tours of Fatima. |
Coastal walking
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Peniche - 14 km. 4 hours approx. Altitude 90m.
Starting at the Fortress of Peniche, a National Museum of Resistance and Freedom, we will walk along the cliffs edges to a lighthouse and viewing point. Continuing along a coastal path, observing the local fishermen and on to a promontory with spectacular views of Berlinga Island, a nature reserve. Next we go down to the sandy beach, easy walking, and time for a dip in the sea. We finish in a surfing and wind surfing resort which has a number of places where you can have a drink, lunch or snack and watch the world go by.
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Shorter Walks - 6km to 9km
If you're looking for a more leisurely adventure, our shorter walks provide a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. These routes are designed to be less strenuous, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty and historical sights of Central Portugal without the extended duration. Ideal for those who prefer a lighter walking experience, these shorter walks still offer plenty of charm and discovery.
What people say...
"Thanks to Shamrock Walking Tours for a wonderful three days of walking and personalised service. Of our five weeks away this was a major highlight of our holiday. Can't recommend these short day tours enough. They were at the perfect pace for us, not overrun with tourists. Tomar is historical and in a beautiful setting, a real gem." Stephen and Fiona, Australia.
If you're looking for a more leisurely adventure, our shorter walks provide a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. These routes are designed to be less strenuous, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty and historical sights of Central Portugal without the extended duration. Ideal for those who prefer a lighter walking experience, these shorter walks still offer plenty of charm and discovery.
What people say...
"Thanks to Shamrock Walking Tours for a wonderful three days of walking and personalised service. Of our five weeks away this was a major highlight of our holiday. Can't recommend these short day tours enough. They were at the perfect pace for us, not overrun with tourists. Tomar is historical and in a beautiful setting, a real gem." Stephen and Fiona, Australia.
Caminho de Santiago
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Tomar Camino Santiago Walk – 6km, 2 hrs
A lovely walk heading north along the official Caminho de Santiago route from Tomar. It takes you along the Nabao riverbank, with its many bird species, through large woodlands and ancient olive groves. |
Park walking
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Mata Park Walk – 5km, 2 hrs
In the city of Tomar, this national forest park has a landscape, heritage and history all of its own. Lots of birds, wildlife and flora on this route and great views of Tomar and the Convento de Cristo. There is also and option to visit the 12th century Knights Templar castle overlooking Tomar, with an additional 2hr tour. |
Historical Tomar
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Tomar Historic Walk – 6km, 3 hours An educational historical walk in the Knights Templar city of Tomar. Learn it's fascinating history from The Knights Templar to the discoveries with Henry the Navigator and the Order of Christ. Discover traditional festivals, hidden treasures, secrets of the Templar church of Santa Maria dos Olivais and a 15c Synagogue. |
Countryside stroll
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Caminho de Santiago Walk – 9km, 4hrs A section of the Portuguese Caminho route into Tomar, alongside a railway line and into the countryside with views of the city. Lots of wildlife, farmyards, historic points of interest and a description of the flora and fauna of the area on route. |
The Aqueduct of Pegoes
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Pilgrimage Looped walk – 6km, 2 hrs Take the Fatima pilgrimage route walk out of Tomar and on to the famous 16th century Auqeduct of Pegoes. Loop back overlooking Tomar with stunning views over the city. Learn the local history and culture of the area on route. We can also include a two hour tour of the Knights Templar Castle and Convent of Christ as an extra. (4 hrs total) |
Discover the enchantment of Tomar with our historical tours.
Join us and let history come alive before your eyes!
Knights Templar Castle & Convent of Christ 2 Hour Tour
Dive into the rich history of the Knights Templar Castle and Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most significant Templar strongholds in Portuguese history. Explore the intricate details of this medieval masterpiece and uncover the stories behind its walls.
Take our 2 Hour Guided City Tour and immerse yourself in the life of Tomar’s founder, Templar Grand Master Gualdim Pais. Journey through the Age of Discoveries with Prince Henry the Navigator and grasp the profound importance of The Order of Christ. This medieval city is a living testament to Templar design and architecture, offering a unique window into the past.
Join us and let history come alive before your eyes!
Knights Templar Castle & Convent of Christ 2 Hour Tour
Dive into the rich history of the Knights Templar Castle and Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most significant Templar strongholds in Portuguese history. Explore the intricate details of this medieval masterpiece and uncover the stories behind its walls.
Take our 2 Hour Guided City Tour and immerse yourself in the life of Tomar’s founder, Templar Grand Master Gualdim Pais. Journey through the Age of Discoveries with Prince Henry the Navigator and grasp the profound importance of The Order of Christ. This medieval city is a living testament to Templar design and architecture, offering a unique window into the past.
Booking Your Walking Tour
A 20% deposit is required to secure your booking. Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for more details.
The remaining 80% must be paid in full 56 days before departure. There are no hidden extras in our prices.
Transfers:
Transfers are available from Lisbon Airport. You’ll need to arrange your own flights and travel insurance.
Airlines such as Ryanair, Aer Lingus, and TAP Portugal offer several daily flights from Dublin to Lisbon (approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes). We also provide transfers from Porto and Faro.
Clients from other countries should check which airlines fly to Portugal from their place of residence.
Tour Details:
Our guided walks are available year-round, from January to December. We strive for flexibility, so feel free to email us with any queries regarding the length of the trip, walks, group size, etc. We will do our best to accommodate your walking and hiking adventure holiday.
See our Terms & Conditions.
Contact Us:
[email protected]
or WhatsApp for instant bookings +353876803537
- Select Your Preferences:
Choose the dates for your guided walking tour
Specify your preferred accommodation.
Let us know the size of your group. - Contact Us:
Email us with these details, and we’ll provide you with the most competitive, all-inclusive price.
A 20% deposit is required to secure your booking. Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for more details.
The remaining 80% must be paid in full 56 days before departure. There are no hidden extras in our prices.
Transfers:
Transfers are available from Lisbon Airport. You’ll need to arrange your own flights and travel insurance.
Airlines such as Ryanair, Aer Lingus, and TAP Portugal offer several daily flights from Dublin to Lisbon (approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes). We also provide transfers from Porto and Faro.
Clients from other countries should check which airlines fly to Portugal from their place of residence.
Tour Details:
Our guided walks are available year-round, from January to December. We strive for flexibility, so feel free to email us with any queries regarding the length of the trip, walks, group size, etc. We will do our best to accommodate your walking and hiking adventure holiday.
See our Terms & Conditions.
Contact Us:
[email protected]
or WhatsApp for instant bookings +353876803537
All our service providers in Portugal have obtained the Covid-19 'Clean & Safe' Tourismo de Portugal seal of approval.
What to bring..
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Group walking holidays
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