Portugal | The Southwestern Scenic Coastal Trek

ONE OF THE MOST SPECTACULAR COASTAL HIKES IN THE WORLD.

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Trip Highlights:

Trek a portion of the historic Fishermen's Trail from Porto Covo to Odeceixe.
Explore deserted beaches, spectacular cliffs and quaint fishing villages.
Swim in the warm Atlantic Ocean water.

Our coastal route covers a portion of the historic Fishermen’s Trail with 4 days of hiking from Porto Covo to Odeceixe exploring deserted beaches, spectacular cliffs, and quaint fishing villages before traveling to the Algarve region for our final 2 hikes.

The Fishermen’s Trail follows in the footsteps of local fishermen throughout the years to favorite fishing spots while connecting the small coastal villages along the way. It is part of a greater trail system named the Rota Vicentina. The Fishermen’s Trail, the Circular Routes and the Historical Way which runs more inland make up the greater Rota Vicentina. This trail system was named one of the best quality trails by the European Ramblers Association (ERA) and has a total of roughly 450 miles of trails.

The hike takes you through the protected zones of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentina Coast Natural Park.

We begin our journey in the charming old fishing village of Vila Nova de Milfontes – built on a site called Milfontes meaning “Thousands of Fountains”. Vila Nova (New Village) was added to the name when the village was founded. The name refers to the many water springs existing on the area.

Over the course of the week, we hike along the coastline and stop in the small, treasured resort of Almograve, home to the biggest and best-known beach in the area. A hike from the laid-back village of Cavaliero gives us a peek at the beautiful whitewashed architecture this area is known for. The small horseshoe-shaped beach is the towns jewel and features lovely villas set into the hillsides beyond. Another coastal hike takes us to Zambujeira do Mar, where you will want to be sure and visit the chapel of Nossa Senhora do Mar to get dramatic views of the coast. Continuing along the Fishermen’s Trail we visit two more picturesque beach towns to the finest viewpoint in the region above Odeciexe beach.

As we hike between villages, we enjoy the flowers and wildlife of the region, and get to see farmers and fishermen at work. Leaving the Alentejo, we move into the Algarve region of Portugal as we travel to Lagos. One of our hikes is in the rural countryside and the other along the coast.

Throughout our journey, there are plenty of opportunities to dine on delicious, regional cuisine. Considering Southwest Portugal’s closeness to the mouth of the Tagus River and the Atlantic Ocean, it’s no wonder seafood dominates the main dishes of this region. You will also delight in the cured meats, cheeses, pastries and wines. The combinations of all the above should make for a spectacular week of hiking and exploring the rich coastal culture of Southwest Portugal.

Learn more about the Southwestern Coast of Portugal destination

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 - Vila Nova de Milfontes

Ryder-Walker will provide transfer from Lisbon to Vila Nova de Milfontes, a lovely and laid-back coastal village located in the heart of the beautiful Alentejo coastline.

Day 2 - Cercal to Porto Covo

Today, we hike on a section of the Historical Way of the greater Rota Vicentina leading you to the coastal village of Porto Covo. We end with a bit of transfer back to Milfontes for a second night.

Distance: 10 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 500/930 ft.

Day 3 - Vila Nova de Milfontes to Almograve

Begin today with a short walk from the hotel down to the dock where a small family-run ferry takes you across the water. A wider path awaits us today and the scents of pine, eucalyptus, and the hearty coastal vegetation dominate the air. Our hike ends on the lovely beach in Almograve, before a short transfer to our hotel in Zambujeira do Mar.

Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 280/380 ft.

Day 4 - Almograve to Zambujeira do Mar

Wander through red hued sand dunes and cliffs harboring more than 20 species of birds nesting, including the Peregrine Falcon, Kestrel, and White Stork. Passing through the tiny village of Cavaleiro we eventually stroll back into the tranquil village of Zambujeira do Mar.

Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 350/250 ft.

Day 5 - Zambujeira do Mar to Lagos

Today, we continue along the Fishermen’s Trail, passing scenic beaches on our way to the natural fishing harbor of Azenha do Mar. From one of the region’s finest viewpoints, we’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Odeceixe Beach. The day ends with a transfer to the historic and lively village of Lagos, located on the southern edge of the European continent.

Distance: 11 miles. Elevation gain/loss: 800/700 ft.

Day 6 - Algarve Coast Historical Way

This morning begins with a transfer to the charming seaside village of Burgau. From here, we’ll experience the coastal beauty of the Algarve, with its vibrant orange sandstone cliffs, stunning beaches, and wild rock formations. Our hike leads us back to the bustling village of Lagos, passing hidden grottos along the way.

Distance: 7 miles. Elevation gain/loss: up to 700/780 ft.

Day 7 - Ponta de Piedade

Our final journey takes us to the charming old town of Lagos, with stops at various viewpoints to admire the iconic rock formations of the Algarve. Highlights along the way include Ponta da Piedade and Praia Dona Ana. The hike concludes at the marina, where there’s an option to book a boat tour to explore the sea caves, time and weather permitting. For those looking for a longer trek, we can extend the hike from the Old Town of Lagos, or opt for a short transfer back to our hotel in Lagos for a final night.

Distance: 3.5 to 7 miles Elevation gain/loss: 475 ft.