Peniche in central Portugal is unique area. It is fishing village with unique and spectacular cliffside. Apart from unique geology, you will see many highlights such as the fishing port, Peniche fort, and Peniche lighthouse, which is Portugal’s oldest lighthouse. It is also internationally known surfing location with international competitions. And finally, it is famous for its robin lace and during your lace you might spot ladies making the lace in the building right next to the visitor center.
GETTING THERE
Lisbon – 100km (1h 15min)
Porto – 260km (2h 30min)
Coimbra – 160km (1h 40min)
By car: Park at free parking lots along the coastline
By public transport: Arrive to Peniche bus station. It is possible to take a bus from Lisbon to Peniche with Rede Expressos. It is about 1,5h bus ride.
By bike: You can cycle to and around Peniche, but parking racks are very sporadic. Take extra safety as Portugese are not accustomed well to bike traffic.
Camper/ Van overnight stay: I have stayed at ASA camping. In low season 9,5 EUR. Electricity extra, pay for shower and toilet usage. The campsite is very near to the coastline. More information HERE
Alternatively, stay for free along the coastline in the south part of the village. Not 100% certain if it but have seen couple of campers there.
TRAIL NAVIGATION
Follow the coastline of Peniche. You can follow long distance trail E9, but instead of leaving the village, continue walking along the walls to complete the loop. For the rest you can follow the signs of E9 which are white and red striped flag on various landmarks.
More about the hiking trails HERE
TRAIL DETAILS
Easy trail with minimal elevation gain. Starting at the village, walk on pedestrian path, passing the fishing port and Peniche fort. Continue on roads until you exit the village. After this, the majority of the walk will be on easy trails coming across some highlights and nice cliff walks. You can see the lighthouse in the distance. At the lighthouse the unique geological site starts with unique rock formations. At the northern part of the island the cliffs are more dramatic and you will also see more birds.
The trail can be slightly harder at some points, especially if you decide to walk on the trails closest to the cliffs. The official E9 route is mostly along the road, but I recommend taking the cliff trails where possible as they offer amazing views. Just before finishing the loop, Papoa peninsula is cherry on top.
ADDITIONAL LOOP
If you are up for long walk or another walk on a different day of about 11km, continue on the E9 trail out of Peniche towards Ferrel, this is about 5km, 1km on small walking path and remaining 4km on cycling path along dunes, all next to a road. Once you reach large parking lot with various restaurants head to Baleal peninsula and make a 2km loop along the coastline in any direction you like. You can go same way back or walk on the beach for 4km. Enjoy surfers catching waves while you walk.
OTHER DETAILS
Tree coverage: No tree coverage, zero shade on hot days. Bring sun protection.
Geocaching: There are some geocaches and Adventure labs along the trail.
Dogs: It is possible to do the trail with dog, but it must be leashed. Mainly due to traffic.
Shoes recommendation: Can be completed in any sports shoe.
Trail running: Perfect for beginner/intermediate trail runners due to its varied terrain. Relatively flat but you need to tackle constantly changing terrain.
FACILITIES
There are some facilities but mainly around the central part of the village, plan accordingly
Restrooms: Few public restroom
Restaurants: Few restaurants mainly in the village centre
Shops: Few shops near the village center
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
I completed this hike in December 2024 on Tuesday. It was sunny, around 13 degrees. Some people walk parts of the trail and at some of the highlights. I expect it will be busy during weekends, especially during summer.
