The Silver Coast of Portugal isn’t just for surfers and sun lovers. If you head a bit inland, you can explore ancient dinosaur footprints, stunning caves, and unique geological formations in the Serras de Aire and Candeeiros Nature Park. Nestled between Porto and Lisbon, this green area lets you travel back in time to discover a real Jurassic Park.
From tall mountains to the origins of rivers deep within a cave system, the Parque Natural das Serras de Aire e Candeeiros has it all. Plus, it’s close to Portugal’s Silver Coast, which boasts surfer hotspot Nazaré and family-friendly São Martinho do Porto. The region is also surrounded by three World Heritage monasteries and Knights Templar castles, making it a dream destination for travelers.
Just an hour from Lisbon, you can enter the Karst Kingdom, a landscape shaped uniquely by water and time. After spending a month here, we’ve put together this guide to the best spots in the Nature Park to experience a Jurassic World:
Around 175 million years ago, dinosaurs walked through some Jurassic mud. These sauropods, herbivorous dinosaurs with small heads and long necks and tails, left footprints that fossilized into limestone. These ancient footprints are now revealed as the rock is quarried in the Parque Natural da Serras de Aire e Candeeiros, part of Portugal’s Centro region.
Thankfully, the quarries were closed, and the tracks protected. You can now walk on boardwalks over these sites to get a closer look at the prints—fascinating! Visit the Monumento Natural das Pegadas de Dinossáurios, Pegadas Vale de Meios, or other open nature spots to see them for yourself.
As you descend 125 meters below the surface, your guide will explain that the cave extends at least 11 kilometers, although you’ve only walked about 600 meters. Discovered in 1947, the Grutas de Mira de Aire continue to reveal more as expeditions, now mostly using scuba gear, explore the largely underwater cave. Formed 150 million years ago during the Middle Jurassic age, these caves are lit with colored lights to highlight the beauty of the stalagmites and stalactites.
During the tour, admire limestone formations like the “Jellyfish,” “Spaghettis,” and the magnificent “Organ.” Mira de Aire’s caves are one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders, and they are truly spectacular!
Another great and accessible cave is Grutas da Moeda. It’s a fun outing for families or those with walking difficulties. This cave visit is more educational than Grutas de Mira de Aire, providing insights into the geology and natural history of the region. The guides do an excellent job of explaining the geology, wildlife, and topography of the Serras de Aire e Candeeiros Nature Park.
Though smaller, Grutas da Moeda makes up for its size with rich information, fun, and friendly experiences! It’s a must-visit for families!
If you enjoy hiking, it’s a fantastic way to connect with the region’s unique landscape. We’ve picked three great hikes that will take you past some of the most fascinating geological phenomena in the park.
One favorite trail, PR1 ACN, is short but memorable. Park your car by the riverside and explore the area before heading into the canyon to discover the source of the Alviela River. This trail showcases the geological beauty of Middle Jurassic limestone, surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation. Along the trail, you’ll encounter the Amiais stream, which eventually becomes the Alviela River after disappearing into the cave and reemerging dramatically.
Another fascinating hike on the PR8 ACN route lets you observe Portugal’s largest gravity aqueduct, constructed in 1880 and stretching 114 kilometers long.
Another beautiful 6 km circular hike, PR4 PMS, takes you through ancient burial caves, a natural tunnel, and the Malhadouro valley. You’ll navigate natural stairs to Pia da Ovelha, a large cave named for a dripping stalactite that once served as a water hole for sheep. After descending into the valley, you can watch climbers at the Reguengo do Fetal climbing area and explore fascinating rock formations.
For a longer adventure, the 12 km PR4 PMS route leads you from Alcaria into a natural amphitheatre called “Fornea” where natural sounds dominate. The trail offers waterfalls, caves, and stunning views of the National Park from the top of a wild arena. Along the way, look out for fossils, birds of prey, wildflowers, and paleolithic remains from the Jurassic era. Always remember to follow the signposts along the route for a wonderful hiking experience.
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