Portugal's Nature Parks II

Just a stone's throw away from Nazaré's crashing waves, another world begins: the Serras de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park. From above, the landscape seems unremarkable, but its true face is revealed underground. Deep caves, endless tunnels, stalactites that have been growing for thousands of years. Cristina Lopes knows this labyrinth like no other. As a cave explorer, she and her team venture into unknown depths. But her work is not an adventure for lone wolves: anyone who ventures into these depths needs a team, trust and the utmost concentration.

The Douro Internacional Natural Park in Portugal impresses with spectacular gorges and breathtaking views of the Douro River. The steep cliffs provide refuge for endangered birds of prey such as Egyptian vultures, golden eagles and griffon vultures. The park is home to the oldest wine-growing region in the world and the Vale do Côa Archaeological Park, which is famous for its prehistoric rock engravings. The Douro Valley, also known as Terra Quente, fascinates visitors with its unique ecosystem. Biologists and conservationists are working to preserve this landscape for future generations.

The Vale do Guadiana Natural Park is one of southern Europe’s last untouched wilderness areas. Conservationists here safeguard endangered species and preserve the region’s original character. Rivers, steep slopes and Mediterranean forests define this landscape. At its heart stands the Iberian lynx: once on the brink of extinction, it is now returning thanks to dedicated protection and careful reintroduction efforts.

Between the Atlantic coast and forested hills, the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park blends rugged cliffs, shifting dunes and cool mist forests. This diversity creates one of Portugal’s most dynamic ecosystems. Rangers and researchers work to protect rare species and fragile habitats stretching from Sintra’s wooded slopes to the open Atlantic shore.