Portugal coastal hiking vacation

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION
We are committed to offering low-impact vacations, which benefit the countries and communities we visit, as well as our travelers and the natural environment. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimise our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible.

This walking tour along Portugal’s beautiful northern coast offers a refreshingly low-carbon way to travel. Instead of rushing between sights, you’ll explore on foot, meandering along coastal paths, following river valleys, and climbing into the wild landscapes of the Serra d'Arga, making the journey itself part of the experience while keeping environmental impact to a minimum.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE
We operate a ‘leave no trace’ policy in national parks, archaeological sites, monuments, and other sensitive areas like beaches and coastlines; these should be treated with the ultimate respect to maintain them for future generations. Our tour leaders are trained to promote this message to our customers during the vacation.

With only occasional short transfers and routes that often trace historic paths like the Caminho de Santiago, the tour embraces a slower, more sustainable pace. It’s a chance to connect more deeply with nature and local communities, all while traveling in a way that treads lightly on the environment.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY
We provide ample opportunity to explore the local areas on foot, where you can shop for local wares and crafts and immerse yourselves in the rich cultural heritage of the destination. To enhance your experience, as well as your tour leader, each vacation will be accompanied by a well-qualified and knowledgeable English-speaking local guide.

The Hotel Meira is a comfortable and well-located base in Vila Praia de Âncora, just a short walk from the beach and town center. Its location makes it ideal for a walking tour, with easy access to coastal paths, local cafés, and everyday amenities—meaning many outings can be done on foot, helping to keep the overall trip low-impact and great for the local economy.

Food on this tour is rooted in sustainability and local culture, with breakfasts at the hotel and dinners often taken in small, family-run restaurants that use fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional recipes. By favouring locally owned venues within walking distance where possible, the tour supports the local economy while keeping transport use (and environmental impact) low.

Vegetarian options are available if requested in advance, though Portuguese cuisine is typically meat- and fish-based, and vegan choices may be more limited. That said, meals focus on simple, seasonal ingredients, making this a more eco-conscious dining experience overall.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY & DIVERSITY
We are committed to responsible and sustainable travel practices that support both the local environment and surrounding communities. By selecting environmentally conscious accommodation, encouraging reduced waste, and prioritising sustainable transport where possible, we aim to minimise our footprint. Through respectful engagement and conscious travel choices, we strive to protect natural landscapes while delivering enriching and memorable experiences.

Our walking tours are thoughtfully designed to immerse guests in local heritage and culture, building meaningful connections with the places and people we visit, including the employment of local tour guides. As a company, we believe in workplace diversity and equal employment, with opportunities available to everybody regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or nationality.