Tucked between the Algarve’s wild coastline and the forested Monchique mountains, the area around Silves Hills is more than a postcard-perfect town. For nature lovers, adrenaline seekers, and weekend explorers, it’s an untapped basecamp for some of southern Portugal’s best outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re tearing up backcountry trails on an ATV, kayaking down the calm Arade River, or hiking, running or biking through cork forests to panoramic peaks, Silves puts a surprising amount of action at your doorstep.
Here are ways to go beyond the beach—and discover a wilder, more unforgettable Algarve.
Buggy & Quad Bike Tours
Few things beat the thrill of roaring along dirt tracks, through orange groves, over shallow river crossings, and up rocky slopes—with the red hills of Silves unfolding around you.
Top experience:
- Silves Outdoor offers 2–3 hour guided buggy and quad bike tours that give you a dose of off-road adrenaline and local insight. Routes take in hidden trails, viewpoints, and traditional farmsteads most visitors never see.
Good to know:
- Tours start from around €130 for two people.
- No previous experience needed—just a driver’s license and a taste for dust.
Arade River Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Paddle your way into the heart of the Algarve—literally. The Arade River, which winds from Silves all the way to the coast, offers peaceful, scenic waters perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Why go:
- It’s a slow adventure with views of the castle, birdlife, fishing boats, and riverside homes.
- You’ll feel like you’re floating through history—this was once a major Moorish trade route.
Local tip:
- Book a sunset paddle for cooler temps and golden light on the water.
4×4 Jeep Safaris
Want the adventure without the driving? Let a local guide take the wheel and show you the backroads, trails, and natural parks of the inland Algarve.
Top pick:
- Algarve Jeep Safari tours include stops at local farms, thermal springs, the Sitio das Fontes nature park, and of course, Silves’ castle and old town.
Who it’s for:
- Families, groups, or anyone wanting a mix of culture, nature, and off-road fun without having to steer.
Hiking & Mountain Biking in Monchique
At Silves Hills, access to biking and hiking trails start at your front door. Should you choose to venture further afield, just 30 minutes drive away, the Monchique mountains are the green lungs of the Algarve – cooler, quieter, and crisscrossed with hiking and biking trails.
Highlights:
- Climb to the summit of Foia, the region’s highest peak, for ocean views and clean mountain air.
- Explore waterfalls, cork forests, and small villages like Caldas de Monchique with its healing waters.
Bring:
- Decent walking shoes, water, and a camera – you’ll want to capture these views.
Read our full guide to hiking and biking
Horseback Riding in the Countryside
Explore the Algarve the traditional way—on horseback. Several stables around Silves offer guided treks through farmland, forests, and along the Arade River.
Best for:
- Slower-paced adventurers or romantic getaways.
- Families—some centers offer pony rides and lessons too.
Try:
- Country Riding Centre or Centro Hípico Quinta da Saudade for well-rated experiences.
Zip Lining & Extreme Sports
Feeling bold? For high-flying action, head to nearby adventure parks or coastal cliffs.
Options include:
- Zip lining through pine forests in Lagos Adventure Park.
- Coasteering, abseiling, and cliff-jumping along the Algarve’s dramatic shoreline.
Best for:
- Adrenaline junkies or teens itching for something unforgettable.
Boat Tours & Dolphin Spotting
Round out your adventure itinerary with a splash, boat tours from Portimão take you along sea caves, dolphin routes, and up the Arade River to Silves.
Why it works:
- Combines nature, wildlife, and local culture.
- Many tours stop in Silves, making it a great addition to your river adventure.
Bonus:
- Choose an electric boat for a quiet, sustainable ride.
Why Silves Hills is the Ideal Base for Outdoor Adventure
Silves Hills isn’t just close to the action, it is the action. It gives you access to coast, mountain, river, and forest, all within 30 minutes. And after a day of exploring, you can wind down with a glass of local wine, a castle-side dinner, or a dip in the pool back home.
If you’re looking for more than just a holiday, but a life of weekend adventures, slow mornings, and easy access to the outdoors, this is it.
At Silves Hills, you’re not just buying a home. You’re stepping into a lifestyle.