An incredible 1,864 mile walk that will be the longest going through Europe’s hidden gem towns is to launch in a matter of weeks.

Portugal is known for its sunny climate, gorgeous beaches and its cultural attractions but soon the European country will be attracting a new wave of tourists.

Portugal is creating the world’s longest circular walking route called ‘Palmilhar Portugal’ or ‘walking Portugal’. The project came about as a solution to help some of the more underdeveloped parts of the country benefit from tourism, particularly outside the busy summer months.

The plan involves the development of a 360 degree trail that will take you through between 90-100 districts along the coast as well as the northern and southern borders.

Winding its way through vineyards, gorgeous towns and beaches the route will be walkable and cyclable, with parts of it accessible to those who are less mobile.

While it could take over three years to be completed in full, the first part of the trail will open at the end of July in Alenquer, just 29 miles north of Lisbon.

After the first part of the trail opens this summer, the following months will see routes opening in Alentejo, central Portugal and the mountainous Tras-OsMontes region. Alentejo is the largest region of Portugal but also the least populated, with charming villages, living traditions and beach towns.

By the end of the year, it’s thought 15 routes will be open across the country. 

An app will be available to walkers, who will also receive a physical passport to be stamped along the way to mark your trail. The project will host events linked to hiking trails and mountain biking.