PORTUGAL’S COASTAL ALGARVE
BEACH AND COASTAL WALKING TOUR
September 14-21, 2024
The beaches and coastline of Portugal’s Algarve region on the west coast of the country are some of the most beautiful in the world and have become one of the most sought after destinations for anyone seeking to witness breathtaking and dramatic coastal scenery.
Go beyond the Algarve and explore the most pristine coastal trails in Portugal on this guided tour of coastal and beach walks, providing the most stunning vistas along Portugal’s Algarve coastline.
Passing wild beaches, whitewashed villages and towering cliffs, the Rota Vicentina is one of the great coastal walking/hiking routes in Europe. Our tour operator has handpicked the very best walks from this extensive network of coastal trails, which span the tranquil Alentejo region and along the few remaining undeveloped shores of Portugal’s stunningly beautiful Algarve.
Starting from the picturesque town of Vila Nova de Milfontes, we walk on quiet coastal trails admiring dramatic cliffs. We will access the beaches and best spots on the Algarve coastline and we will end in the town of Sagres, on the western edge of the dramatic Algarve.
We stay overnight in three different villages, each chosen to provide easy access to the stunning vistas along these walking trails. The refreshing coastal breeze and inviting landscape make walking in this remote corner of Europe truly reinvigorating.
Each day’s walks are along coastal trails with little to no ascent (at most between 250 and 675 feet total daily ascent on any of our daily coastal walks), thus anyone in reasonable fitness shape can enjoy these guided walks and the stunning scenery that each walk will provide you.
September is a good time of year to visit the Algarve region for reliably dry, sunny weather, warm sea temperatures and pleasant ocean breezes, (minus the uncomfortable heat that characterize the earlier months of June-August.)
The average high temps. in this region in September are between 72-78 degrees, making it ideal for coastal walks, with those pleasant coastal breezes. September is also part of the dry season in this region (The wet season being Nov-Mar), so the walking conditions are reliably ideal in September.
Tour at a glance:
- Seven nights in three and four-star hotels in three beautiful villages along the stunning west coast of Portugal, a short walk from lively coastal restaurants, nightlife and more.
- Five days of guided walking and one free day for optional activities such as horse-back riding along the beach
- Group size limited to between 6 and 16 people plus the local guide/leader.
- The tour operator does not allow children on these walks, so you can rest assured, the trip will be all adults (The predominant age on their walking tours is 40s-60’s)
- All transport by private cars or minibus
- Option to Arrive into Lisbon for the chance to add a pre-tour stay in the vibrant capital on your own.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- All daily breakfasts and five days’ picnic lunches
- All accommodations
- All transport between lodges and to/from our daily coastal walks
- Local Experienced Tour leader throughout, provided by the tour company, to guide each of our five daily included coastal walks and be available to assist in the planning of your free day activity as well
- S.C.A.T. group leader from Singlescruisesandtours.com (A leader from S.C.A.T. will also be on the trip as a passenger, to facilitate the camaraderie of our S.C.A.T passengers)
- Group arrival and departure transfers are available from the tour operator at a designated time from the Lisbon airport on September 14th, 2024 and from our hotel to the Faro, Portugal airport in the Algarve region, at the end of our week’s tour.
ITINERARY:
Day 1 – Saturday September 14, 2024
Fly on your own arrangement into Lisbon Portugal. Transport from the Lisbon airport is available at no cost at one designated time, which will be provided to us by the tour operator. They will advise us of the pick-up time so all passengers can book their flight arrival accordingly.
Start in the seaside town of Vila Nova de Milfontes
This trip starts in the seaside town of Vila Nova de Milfontes, in the heart of the beautiful Alentejo coastline approximately 2 hours 30minutes from Lisbon. Still largely undiscovered by foreign visitors, the town is delightfully Portuguese, filled with cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and scenic views across the Mira River. It is also the start point of incredible coastal trails leading to vast stretches of wild, deserted beaches. Despite the remote location, it has an extensive selection of restaurants and a lively nightlife, making it a perfect base for the first two days of the trip.
Day 2 Sunday Sept. 15th, 2024
Rewarding coastal walk to Almograve; transfer back to Vila Nova de Milfontes
We start the week with a relatively short coastal hike offering superb views throughout. Leaving from the hotel, we cross by boat and admire views of the Mira River meeting the ocean, with the small, white-washed town and lush hillsides in the background. There are stretches along today’s trail where native vegetation displays all its diversity and other areas where it has been wiped out by a most aggressive exotic plant – the acacia. At times, farmland stretches right to the ocean, at others the imprint of human habitation is local, non-commercial fishing or small Stone Age quarries hidden among the dunes.
Between March and October, you can spot the many types of swift – alpine, pallid and common – that nest along this coast. Interestingly, swifts spend more than 90 percent of their life in the air as they feed, mate and sleep in flight – they are so well adapted to flying that landing on the ground may be fatal. The walk ends in the small village of Almograve, perfect for an unhurried afternoon stroll or peaceful pause before we return by private transfer to Vila Nova de Milfontes.
Ascent on today’s walk: Only 525ft (160m)
Distance covered: 7mi (12km)
Day 3 Monday Sept. 16, 2024
Walk from Cabo Sardão to Zambujeira do Mar along dramatic high cliffs
Small fishing harbors, dunes, the scent of pine tree forests and the sight, seen nowhere else in the world, of storks nesting on the cliffs make today’s walk truly special. We start with a short transfer (approximately 20 minutes) to Cabo Sardão lighthouse, which was peculiarly built the wrong way round. The entry door is facing the ocean and the lighthouse is facing inland! This is the start of today’s trail, which follows high cliffs exposed to the constant salty ocean waves and winds, and a favorite nesting spot for more than 20 bird species. These include: the jackdaw; shag; common kestrel; white stork; and the peregrine falcon, the fastest recorded animal in the world, reaching speeds of up to 185mph (300kph) when diving.
Some of the dramatic views we will witness on today’s walk starting from the from Cabo Sardao.Lighthouse.
We have time to stop and watch these birds, especially during spring, when it is possible to quietly observe their mating rituals and the careful building of their nests. We pass Lapa das Pombas, a tiny non-commercial fishing harbor, before concluding the walk in the sleepy seaside village of Zambujeira do Mar and its wonderful beach. In the afternoon, we transfer to Arrifana where we stay for the next three nights.
Ascent on today’s walk Only 315ft (96m)
Distance covered: 4mi (7km)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 Tuesday Sept. 17th, 2024
Coastal walk to Odeceixe; admire fascinating rock and cliff formations and some of Portugal’s best beaches; transfer to Vale da Telha
This morning, we transfer from Arrifana to Carvalhal beach (approximately 35 minutes), the start of today’s walk. The cliff face on this stretch of the walk is of particular interest. It is composed of schist and greywacke, which results from the consolidation of sand, clay and volcanic ashes accumulated on the bottom of an ocean more than 300m years ago
This whole coastal region is believed by many to have a particular energy, and it was here the fado diva Amália Rodrigues sought refuge and inspiration for her songs. Along the walk, we may also spot traces of nocturnal mammals, including the Egyptian mongoose (locally known as escalabardo), weasel, beech marten ( papalvo), badger, genet and rabbits. Before reaching Odeceixe, we take a break on Ponta em Branco (White Summit) so named for the color of the sediments that form its top, marking the border between the Alentejo and Algarve regions.
This is considered one of the most scenic points in the entire region with views over Odeceixe beach, with the mountain top of Fóia and Monchique as a backdrop.
Gorgeous views from the Ponta em Braco on today’s walk
We will be transferred to the cozy hotel near Arrifana beach and enjoy a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, or a drink on the sunny terrace, before dinner.
Ascent on today’s walk: only 675ft (205m)
Distance covered: 7mi (11km)
Day 5 Wednesday Sept. 18th, 2024
Free day; enjoy an optional circular walk to Arrifana beach or other activities such as surfing or horse riding along the beach
Today is a free day to choose from the many optional activities available in the area.
You may decide to go on a guided visit to Arrifana beach, Ponta da Atalaia, Monte Clérigo, and Aljezur (payable locally). Alternatively, you may book a surfing class or a horse-riding excursion along the spectacular coastline. While your tour leader will not accompany you on your free day, they can help you book the optional activities. Or if you wish a walk yourself today, our guide can direct you to a scenic self-guided walk around Arrifana. (7.5mi/12km loop)
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 6 Thursday Sept. 19th, 2024
Circular walk around Carrapateira; enjoy ocean views and the sandy beaches of Bordeira and Amado; Later, we will be transferred to Sagres
Today we travel further south and transfer (approximately 30 minutes) to the village of Carrapateira, the start of today’s short circular walk. Along the circuit, we come across various viewpoints with superb vistas of the sandy beaches of Bordeira and Amado plus the ruins of an ancient Islamic fishermen’s settlement.
Views walking around Carrapateira
On the first part of the trail, we walk through undulating dunes carpeted by lush vegetation and aromatic wild plants including thyme, yellow amaranths, rosemary, lavender, crowberries, blue pimpernel and sea lavender. We then walk along the limestone cliffs for most of the trail and may get the opportunity to spot cormorants, a wintering bird and expert angler that consumes almost 2lb (1kg) of fish per day. In the afternoon, we transfer (approximately 20 minutes) to the village of Sagres, at the extreme western tip of the Algarve.
Although primarily known as a surfing destination, Sagres has a lot more to offer. You may decide to spend the rest of the day in one of the sheltered pristine beaches.
Ascent on today’s walk: Only 425ft (130m)
Distance covered: 7mi (11km)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
One of the scenic footpaths walking along this area
Day 7 Friday Sept. 20th, 2024
Final cliff-side coastal walk to Cabo de Sao Vicente, the south-western most point in continental Europe; afternoon optional visit to Sagres Fort
Surrounded by foaming Atlantic breakers, Cabo de Sao Vicente marks the most southwesterly most point of Europe. The final walk from Sagres out to the edge of the continent should prove to be one of the highlights of the week.
Cape St. Vincent’s very location makes you believe it could be the end of the world. At least it seemed to be so for people inhabiting the area in Ancient times. In the Neolithic period, the cape was considered sacred ground. Ancient Greeks built here a temple dedicated to Hercules. The Ancient Romans called the cape Holy Promontory and considered it a magic place.
The cape was named after Saint Vincent, an Iberian deacon who was martyred in the 4th century.
Surrounded by stunningly beautiful coastal scenery, we follow a wild trail along sandy paths and gorse-strewn meadows to the very edge of the Iberian peninsula. Setting off from our hotel, we head to the start point of our walk, near Beliche Beach. We set out along our trail viewing towering cliffs and ravines covered with native vegetation. We pass by the golden beach of Beliche then, after a short section inland, Telheiro beach, a place of extraordinary geological interest thanks to the rock composition of the cliffs. The last section of the path continues along the cliff top before a memorable arrival at Cabo de Sao Vicente where we find a lighthouse, museum and small bar offering wonderful photo opportunities.
The Lighthouse at Cabo San Vicente
The Southwestern most point on the European Continent.
The rugged cliffs along Cabo San Vicente
The Southwestern most point in Europe
It’s only a five-minute transfer back to Sagres where we can choose to visit the imposing sea fortress at sunset or relax with a cold drink on the waterfront, watching fishermen mending their nets. You may decide to book an optional dolphin-watching excursion along the coast (weather and season dependent).
Ascent on today’s walk: Only 280 ft. (85m)
Distance covered: 6mi (10km)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8 Saturday Sept. 21, 2024.
End in Sagres
A group transport from the hotel in Sagres to the Faro airport is provided at one designated time.
The tour operator will advise us of that designated time so all passengers can book their flights home accordingly.
MORE PHOTOS OF THE SCENERY ON THIS GUIDED WALKING TOUR of the ALGARVE and the DRAMATIC VIEWS
ALONG PORTUGAL’S SOUTHWESTERN COAST
The Rota Vicentina is home to some of the best coastal walks in Europe – the remote, quiet trails and temperate climate making it a haven for walkers and hikers and the walking pace on this tour allows time to rest and enjoy the views. The routes are mostly undulating and do not include any challenging climbs; however, the terrain can make the walking exerting at times as we mainly take sandy trails near beaches and cliff-side paths. Some of the trails are exposed but there is always the option to walk away from the exposed parts if you would prefer.
Walks usually take between four and six hours each day (depending on the pace of the group) including picnic lunch stops each day at one of the many scenic vantage points along the day’s walk. All walks are professionally guided by a rep. from the tour company, who leads these walks in this region on a regular basis and thus is both an experienced leader for each walk, as well as a great resource for any questions about the trails, the region, the restaurants, nightlife and anything else you may wish to ask the guide, to make the most of your vacation experience in this beautiful region of Portugal..
HOTELS OUR TOUR OPERATOR USES ON THIS 7 NIGHT COASTAL WALKING TOUR
Vila Nova de Milfontes (two nights): On the main beach avenue, Hotel HS Milfontes Beach enjoys amazing views of the Mira River bay and has an outdoor pool and gym.
HS Milfontes Beach is located right on the main beach avenue in Vila Nova de Milfontes. It enjoys the most amazing views of the Mira river bay, the Atlantic and Furnas beach, officially one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders.
The hotel has an outdoor pool, restaurant and a great bar. Almost all our rooms have either full sea view or pool view.
Our restaurants are worthy of a special mention – there are two restaurants at HS Milfontes Beach, all with panoramic views of the river bay, all with a fantastic kitchen catering for various culinary preferences. Our HS Gin Bar is an excellent place to have a drink whilst contemplating the beach.
The view from the hotel over food and drinks.
Vale da Telha (Aljezur) (three nights): Hotel Vale Da Telha is simple but very cozy, offering a relaxed atmosphere, modern rooms, and an outdoor pool with a spacious sundeck.
Located on the Costa Vicentina and in the center of the Southwest Alentejo Natural Park, our hotel provides unique and memorable surroundings to enjoy nature and picturesque surroundings. The hotel has a pool with sun deck, loungers, umbrellas and scenic views.
Sagres (two nights): Memmo Baleeira Hotel Sagres has an outdoor pool with magnificent Atlantic Ocean views, plus a spa, heated indoor pool, Turkish bath, massage services and sauna.
Located in the green surroundings of the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, the Memmo Baleeira offers an outdoor pool with magnificent Atlantic Ocean views.
Baleeira has a restaurant called "Fornaria", serving tasty homemade pizzas, cooked in a wood-burning oven. The "Fornaria" offers stunning views of the bay. The historical center of Sagres is 656 feet away and it takes a 5-minute walk to reach both Tonel and Martinhal Beach.
The view from the hotel pool/grounds
The view in evening from inside the hotel restaurant
The stunning view from the hotel’s outdoor dining
The view of the ocean at sunset from the hotel’s pool deck
Trip pricing:
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
- All daily breakfasts and five days’ picnic lunches during our daily walks
- All hotel accommodations
- All transport between lodges and to/from our daily coastal walks
- Local Experienced Tour leader throughout, provided by the tour company, to guide each of our five daily included coastal walks and be available to assist in the planning of your free day activity as well
- S.C.A.T. group leader from Singlescruisesandtours.com (A leader from S.C.A.T. will also be on the trip as a passenger, to facilitate the camaraderie of our S.C.A.T passengers)
- Group arrival and departure transfers are available from the tour operator at a designated time from the Lisbon airport on September 14th, 2024 and from our hotel to the Faro, Portugal airport in the Algarve region, at the end of our week’s tour.
Based on a room for two people with two beds
(bring a friend or let us assign you a roommate of the same gender) :
Only $2850 per person including tax.
VERY LIMITED AVAILABILITY OF SINGLE OCCUPANCY ROOMS ON THIS TRIP:
ONLY $379
A deposit of $600 per person is due within 7 days of booking.
THIS TRIP IS LIMITED TO A TOTAL OF ONLY 16 PASSENGERS, IN AN EFFORT TO ENABLE ALL PASSENGERS TO ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE OF THESE BEAUTIFUL COASTAL WALKS IN A SMALL GUIDED GROUP SETTING.
Thus the $600 deposit is Non-Refundable.
THE BALANCE IS DUE MAY 1ST, 2024 IF WE ARE ASSIGNING YOU A ROOMMATE, OR MAY 15TH, 2024 OTHERWISE.
BALANCE PAYMENTS ARE NON REFUNDABLE IF YOU WISH TO CANCEL AFTER FINAL PAYMENT, UNLESS YOU ARE REPLACED WITH ANOTHER PASSENGER.
TRAVEL INSURANCE IS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST AND IS ALWAYS RECOMMENDED FOR ANY TRIP, TO PROTECT YOU IN THE EVENT YOU NEED TO CANCEL DUE TO A COVERED MEDICAL REASON. ASK FOR TRAVEL INSURANCE RATES OR PHONE NUMBERS TO CONTACT THE TRAVEL INSURANCE COMPANY FOR A QUOTE TO YOU DIRECTLY.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES ON THE ONE FREE DAY IN THE TRIP ITINERARY
- Sagresdolphin watching: Approximately €40 per person (season and weather dependent)
- Sagres RIB (rigid inflatable boat) trip: Approximately €35 per person (season and weather dependent)
- Sagres Fort: €3 per person
- Aljezur: Horse riding, starts from €35 per person for an hour
- Arrifana half-day surf lesson: Approximately €30-€35 per person
- Half-day guided visit in Arrifana: €30 per person.
Electricity
Portugal's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard) and F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Portugal's currency: Euros (EUR)
