Summer is synonymous with good weather (usually), longer days and good disposition, attractive factors to a workout outdoors. If you are not a fan of gyms or if you simply want to enjoy the benefits of contact with nature, All About Portugal gives you some suggestions for spaces in Porto, and in the surroundings, perfect for outdoor physical activities. In groups or individually, to burn some calories or simply to relax your mind, there's no excuse not to take advantage of the summer in a healthy way.
Serras do Porto Park
This is a perfect space for racing enthusiasts as it offers 90 kilometres of signposted tracks, divided by increasingly difficult routes. Those who prefer hiking have also walking trails available, and for cycling lovers there are circuits for mountain biking. Whatever the modality, you can always enjoy a unique landscape that crosses the mountains of Santa Justa, Pias, Castiçal, Flores, Santa Iria and Banjas, in the municipalities of Gondomar, Paredes and Valongo.
Ermesinde Urban Park
In addition to the leisure areas, ideal for a family outing, Ermesinde Urban Park, located in one of the noblest areas of Valongo, has a generous garden area that invites you to the practice of exercises such as yoga or tai chi. Every year it receives a festival that includes free classes and workshops dedicated to these practices. The park also has pedestrian zones, perfect for walking or jogging, without leaving the city.
Avioso Park
With around 30 hectares of green areas, Maia's Avioso Park is ideal for a morning jog or a late afternoon walk. There are more than four kilometres of walking trails, lined with trees and shrubs of different species, which create a harmonious environment. Walking, rollerblading or cycling - through the available cycle paths - enjoy the shadows that the space offers. Along the way, you can climb to one of the watchtowers and enjoy the scenery.
Waterfront of Matosinhos
The county's more than 10 kilometres of coastline are one of the most desirable settings to burn calories and keep your body and mind healthy, while enjoying the scenery and the sea breeze. A place chosen by many for running, walking or cycling, it is also an annual meeting point for the “Get Moving!” Initiative, promoted by the municipality to encourage sports. On some beaches there are also fitness and weight training equipment which you can enjoy freely.
Porto City Park
It is one of the city's foremost attractions not only for leisure but also for sports activities. The space, considered the largest urban park in the country, allows the practice of various modalities, not only running and cycling. Every year, between June and September, the municipality organizes free yoga, pilates and tai chi classes on Sunday mornings. For those who prefer other challenges, you can try the orienteering pathways, which combine exercise, competition and discovery.
Gardens of Porto Crystal Palace
The breathtaking view of Porto, characteristic of one of the most emblematic spaces in the city, can give you an extra motivation to exercise. Enjoy the shadows and take a walk while enjoying the beauty of the place. In the end, you can always relax on the terrace or in one of the grassy areas. If you are in Zen mode, you can try the free yoga, pilates and tai chi classes held by the municipality, on Saturday mornings.
Pasteleira Urban Park
With good accessibility and an extensive area - seven hectares of green spaces - the Pasteleira Park, in Lordelo do Ouro, is another of the privileged places in Porto for outdoor exercise. Walk through the existing pedestrian paths while enjoying contact with nature. Formed by two separate areas along Rua Afonso de Paiva, the park also has a two-kilometre bike path that connects to Porto City Park.
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