Roads of Portugal

Nestled on the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is not just a tapestry of historic tales, azure coasts, and sun-kissed vineyards but also a treasure trove of driving adventures waiting to be explored. As the Atlantic Ocean kisses its shores, Portugal’s winding roads ascend into the heart of its landscapes, showcasing the country’s diverse topography and cultural allure.

Imagine scaling the heights of Torre-Serra da Estrela, the pinnacle of mainland Portugal. The route to the summit provides unparalleled panoramas, revealing how the rugged beauty of the mountains blends seamlessly with the serene plateaus. Then there's the journey to Pico do Areeiro in Madeira, an ascent that takes you through the very clouds, revealing vistas that seem almost otherworldly.

But the real challenge for the thrill-seekers is the Antiga Estrada Regional 101 (ER101) in Madeira. This precarious path hugs Madeira’s dramatic coastline, weaving through countless curves, narrow straits, and steep inclines and descents. It’s a testament to the harmonious coexistence of man-made marvels with nature's grandeur.

And let's not forget the roads that meander through the Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards narrate tales of centuries-old wine-making traditions. Whether you're cruising along the coast, navigating the mountainous terrains, or getting lost in the rustic charm of the countryside, Portugal promises a road trip that's as diverse and rich as its legacy. So, rev up your engine, and let Portugal’s roads guide you through its mosaic of wonders.

On the northern part of Madeira Island, in Portugal, lies a rather peculiar and dangerous road called Antiga Estrada Regional 101 (ER101). Due to Madeira's dramatic coastline, the road boasts many curves, narrow passages, and steep climbs and descents. It's rugged, slow, and old, making it one of the most scenic drives in the world.

Located in the North Region of Portugal, Estrada Nacional 222, between Peso da Régua and Pinhão, was awarded as the world's best road in 2015.

National Road 2 is nicknamed the Route 66 of Portugal. It’s a very exciting and scenic journey in the heart of the country, taking you from Chaves in the north to Faro in the south.

Pico do Areeiro is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 1.804m (5,918ft) above the sea level, located in Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago in the north Atlantic Ocean. At this elevation is one of the highest roads of the country.

Alto de Torre is a high mountain plateau at 1.996m (6,548ft) above the sea level located on the boundary of Guarda and Castelo Branco districts. At this elevation it’s the highest point of Mainland Portugal. It's one of the highest roads of the country.

Monte Farinha is a mountain peak at an elevation of 940m (3,083ft) above the sea level, located in the district of Vila Real, Portugal.

Located in Funchal, the capital city of Portugal's Madeira archipelago, Rua da Barreira is one of the steepest roads in the world, with some brutal sections of 45% and an average gradient of 25.17%.

Alto de São Macário is a mountain peak at an elevation of 1.052m (3,451ft) above the sea level, located in the district of Viseu, in the Central Inland of Portugal.

Covas do Monte is a small town, located in the municipality of São Pedro do Sul, District of Viseu, in the Central Inland of Portugal, at 536m (1,758ft) above the sea level.

Located in central Portugal, N232 Road is a tortuously winding mountain road. The road has so many twists and switchbacks that is best avoided.

N308-1 is the name of the sharply winding and precipitous ascent in a narrow zig-zag road in the northwestern Portuguese area. It’s one of the most scenic drives in the country.

Located on the border of Spain and Portugal, Vado del Río Eljas is one of the most spectacular bridges in the world.

Portal do Inferno e Garra (Hell Portal and Claw) is a natural viewpoint at an elevation of 984m (3,228ft) above the sea level, located on the boundary of Arouca and S. Pedro do Sul municipalities in the Central Inland of Portugal.

EM513 is a short mountain road located in northern Portugal, with stunning views.

Cascata Poço do Inferno (Hell's Well) is a spectacular ravine/waterfall about 10 feet high located in Centro Region and Beira Interior Norte Subregion, in Portugal. The road has some narrow parts, impassable for 2 medium cars.

Pico da Barrosa is a mountain pass at an elevation of 936m (3,070ft) above the sea level located in the island of São Miguel in the Portuguese Azores. At the summit it’s possible to see both the North and South Coasts.

Poios Brancos is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 1.685m (5,528ft) above the sea level, located in the district of Guarda, in the Centro Region of Portugal. It's one of the highest roads of the country.

Montejunto is a mountain peak at an elevation of 655m (2,148ft) above the sea level, located in centre west of Portugal. At the summit there are some churches and chapels, and several communication facilities.

Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city is beautiful and enchanting. A fusion of history, a vibrant nightlife and a bohemian art scene, Portugal is a city that is truly alive.

With a rich history of seafaring and discovery, the Portuguese Republic is , located at the western end of the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. The country is bounded on the west and south by the Atlantic Ocean and on the north and east by Spain. With a mild climate, it is not a homogeneous country geographically. The country has one of the highest percentages of forested lands in all of Europe.

Col de Zezere is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1.615m (5,298ft) above the sea level, located in the district of Castelo Branco, in Portugal. It's one of the highest roads of the country.

Achada do Teixeira is a high mountain plateau at an elevation of 1.593m (5,226ft) above the sea level, located in the Portuguese island of Madeira.

Alto da Pedrice is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 1.740m (5,708ft) above the sea level, located in Castelo Branco district, in Central Portugal. It's one of the highest roads of the country.

Pico da Santinha is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1.597m (5,239ft) above the sea level, located in the district of Guarda, in the Centro Region of Portugal.

Portugal is among the top golfing destinations around the world. It has fantastic golf courses and pleasant weather to complete the invitation package.