RING OSS: +47 22413030 
Vi leter nå etter din drømmereise
SØK
8
17 118
Go beyond the Algarve and explore Portugal's most pristine coastal trails
This trip starts in the seaside town of Vila Nova de Milfontes, located in the heart of the beautiful Alentejo coastline approx 2 hrs from Faro and 2.5 hrs 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 and deserted beaches. Despite its remote location, it has an extensive selection of restaurants, and a lively nightlife making it a perfect base for the first three days of the tour.
We start the week with a relatively short coastal hike offering superb views throughout. Leaving from the hotel, we cross by boat and admire the views of the River Mira 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 down to the ocean, at others the imprint of human habitation is local, non-commercial fishing or small stone age quarries hidden amongst the dunes. Between March and October you’ll be able to spot the many types of swift - Alpine, Pallid and Common - that all nest along this coast. Interestingly, swifts spend over 90% 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 peaceful small village of Almograve, perfect for an unhurried afternoon stroll or peaceful pause before we return by private transfer to Vila Nova de Milfontes.
Distance in Km: 13
Distance in Miles: 8
Altitude Gain: 230
Altitude Loss: 207
Small fishing harbours, sand dunes, the scent of pine tree forests and the sight, seen nowhere else in the world, of storks nesting on the cliffs make this today's walk truly special. We start with a short transfer (approx. 20mins) 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 the high cliffs exposed to the constant salty ocean waves and winds, and favourite nesting spot for over twenty species of bird. 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 300 km/h when diving. We will 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 harbour, 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 3 nights.
Distance in Km: 9
Distance in Miles: 5.5
Altitude Gain: 210
Altitude Loss: 200
This morning we transfer from Arrifana to Carvalhal beach (approx. 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 ancient ocean over 300 million years agoThis whole coastal region is believed by many to have a particular energy, and it was here that 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 (also known as “Papalvo”), badger, genet and rabbits. Before reaching Odeceixe, we take a break on Ponta em Branco (white summit) so named for the colour of the sediments that form its summit, marking the border between the Alentejo and the 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. We transfer to the cosy hotel near Arrifana beach and enjoy a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, or a drink on the sunny terrace before dinner.
Distance in Km: 12
Distance in Miles: 7.5
Altitude Gain: 470
Altitude Loss: 470
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 the famous 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. Whilst your tour leader will not acompany you on your free day, they will be able to help you book the optional activities. A self-guided walk around Arrifana is also possible (12km loop).
Today we travel further south and transfer (approx. 30 mins) to the village of Carrapateira, the start of today's short circular walk. Along the circuit, we come across various viewpoints with superb views of the sandy beaches of Bordeira and Amado as well as the ruins of an ancient Islamic fishermen’s settlement. 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, consuming almost 1 kg of fish per day. In the afternoon we transfer (approx. 20 mins) to the village of Sagres, at the extreme western tip of the Algarve. Although primarily known as a surfing destination (and surprisingly not the Portuguese beer of the same name), Sagres has a lot more to offer. You may decide to spend the rest of the day in one of the sheltered pristine beaches.
Distance in Km: 12
Distance in Miles: 7.5
Altitude Gain: 200
Altitude Loss: 200
Surrounded by foaming Atlantic breakers, Cabo de Sao Vicente marks the most south-westerly 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. Surrounded by 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 make our way to the start point of our walk, near Beliche Beach. We set out across towering cliffs and ravines covered with native vegetation. We pass by the golden beach of Beliche, and, 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 Cape St. Vincent where we find a lighthouse, museum and small bar offering wonderful photo opportunities. It's only a short transfer (5 mins) 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).
Distance in Km: 10
Distance in Miles: 6.2
Altitude Gain: 190
Altitude Loss: 210
7 nights 3 and 4-star hotels, all rooms en suite5 days guided walking and 1
free dayGroup normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Min age 16 yrs.All transport by
private cars or minibus
All breakfasts and 5 picnic lunchesThe pic-nic lunches will include a mix of
sandwiches, cheeses, cured meats and fruit.During the week we will get the
opportunity to sample other delicacies and traditional dishes of this region
which will include some of the freshest seafood and fish. The local
speciality from the sea is the Barnacle Perceve, this is not taken from the
bottom of boats but the bottom of submerged local cliffs, it is harvested by
hand using a dangerous and traditional method, which involves one of the two
collectors dangling by a rope from the top of the cliffs! Away from the sea
the dried hams, salamis and cheese are excellent. Good quality meat is also
always on the menu. Vegetables are plentiful and although vegetarian dishes
in traditional restaurants are available, the choice may be limited.
7 nights 3 and 4-star hotels, all rooms en suite5 days guided walking and 1
free dayGroup normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Min age 16 yrs.All transport by
private cars or minibus
Grade: 2 (Leisurely/Moderate) 5 days guided walking with low altitude
throughout.Portugal's Rota Vicentina is home to some of the best coastal
walks in Europe. The remote, quiet trails and temperate climate make this a
haven for hikers and ramblers. The average walking distance each day is
approx. 13 km and the pace of the walks allows time to rest and enjoy the
views. The walks are mostly undulating and do not include any long
challenging climbs however the terrain can make the walking quite exerting
at times as we will be walking mostly on sandy trails near beaches as well
as rugged clifftop paths. Some of the trails are exposed but there will be
always the option to walk far enough from the exposed parts for those with a
fear of heights.Walks usually take between 4 and 6 hours including picnic
lunch stops (depending on the pace of your group) and require a good level of
fitness.
Comfortable hotels On this trip we will use three different hotels. All rooms are en suite and
all hotels have a swimming pool.Hotels normally used:Vila Nova de Milfontes
(2 nights): Hotel HS Milfontes Beach *** or Duna Parque Beach Club
***Located on the main beach avenue in Vila Nova de Milfontes, Hotel HS
Milfontes Beach enjoys amazing views of the Mira river bay, along with an
outdoor pool and gym. Duna Parque Beach Club is just around the corner from
Hotel HS Milfontes Beach and offers indoor and outdoor pools plus spa
facilities. For departures that stay at Duna Parque Beach Club (9th October
2022), you will have breakfast at Hotel HS Milfontes Beach.Vale da Telha
(Aljezur) (3 nights): Hotel Vale Da Telha **Simple but very cosy hotel,
offering a very relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, modern rooms, as well as an
outdoor pool with a spacious sun deck.Sagres (2 nights): Memmo Baleeira
Hotel Sagres****Offering an outdoor pool with magnificent Atlantic Ocean
views. It also has a spa and a heated indoor pool, Turkish bath and
sauna.Bookings within 30 days are subject to availability and may incur a
supplement of approximately £145 per person (based on a twin share).
All breakfasts and 5 picnic lunchesThe pic-nic lunches will include a mix of
sandwiches, cheeses, cured meats and fruit.During the week we will get the
opportunity to sample other delicacies and traditional dishes of this region
which will include some of the freshest seafood and fish. The local
speciality from the sea is the Barnacle Perceve, this is not taken from the
bottom of boats but the bottom of submerged local cliffs, it is harvested by
hand using a dangerous and traditional method, which involves one of the two
collectors dangling by a rope from the top of the cliffs! Away from the sea
the dried hams, salamis and cheese are excellent. Good quality meat is also
always on the menu. Vegetables are plentiful and although vegetarian dishes
in traditional restaurants are available, the choice may be limited.
Airport transfers will be by private minibus. During the week we have
included some short transfers by private cars or minibus to take you to the
begining of the walk or back to our hotel after a day of walking.
Travelling flight inclusive from London: 8 daysThe group flight from London
is a daytime flight departing on Day 1 of the itinerary.Flights from
LondonWe normally use the scheduled services of British Airways, Easyjet or
Norwegian to Faro or Lisbon (depending on the departure date). As flight
timings and schedules change regularly we recommend you call one of our
specialist sales staff or your agent to confirm up‐to‐date
timings. Travelling land only: 8 days starting in Vila Nova de Milfontes
and ending in SagresYour trip normally starts at our accommodation in Vila
Nova de Milfontes in the afternoon of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of
how to reach the start point are provided in the Final Joining Instructions
‐ sent approximately two weeks before departure.
Airport transfers are included for those on the group flights. If you
require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement only) be able to
join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged to coincide with the arrival
time of the group flight - please check the group flight details 2 weeks
before departure. If you do not take this transfer, or miss it, you must make
your own way to the joining point at your own expense.
The South West of Portugal has one of the best climates in the world, with a
Mediterranean climate with a strong Atlantic influence, guaranteeing mild
temperatures throughout the year. Winters are short and are never very cold,
but offer enough rain to fertilize the soil for the nine months when the sun
is king. The recommended period to walk the Rota Vicentina is from September
till June, when our departures are scheduled. In winter, temperatures do
not fall below 11ºC during the day and this is normally the rainiest period
of the year. From March on, sunny days alternate with rainy days and
temperatures start to rise. The reborn landscape and the intensity of the
colours and aromas make spring one of the best seasons to visit the
area. Heat waves can push up temperatures in July and August and it gets
too hot for walking. In the autumn months temperatures are generally quite
mild, with the ocean waters reaching pleasant temperatures for swimming.
Please note that coastal areas of Portugal are known to be quite windy
throughout the year. We highly recommend that you check the weather forecasts
close to the arrival date and bring adequate rain gear.
Walking shoes or bootsWarm clothing in February, March, October and
NovemberSunhat, suncreamDaypack to carry your belongings on walksWaterproof
jacketWaterbottleLight beach towel
UmbrellaSwimwear Walking poles
You will need spending money for meals not included in the itinerary and all
drinks. We suggest to budget approx. €25 per day to cover for dinner with
drinks if not then €15-20 per day. On the days where lunch or dinner is not
included expect to spend €10-€15 for lunch.Your tour leader will collect
an optional group kitty at the start of the trip (usually approx. €25 per
person) which will cover for local staff tipping at hotels and restaurants as
well as a couple of local producers visits.Optional Activities:Sagres -
Dolphin Watching approx. €35 per person (season and weather
dependent)Sagres - boat trip approx.€30 per person (season and weather
dependent)Sagres Fort €3 per personArrifana - Surf lesson 1/2 day approx.
€30-35 per personHalf-day guided visit in Arrifana €30 per person.
Although optional, a tip for the leader at the end of the trip is greatly
appreciated. As a guideline we recommend a contribution of €15 per client
per leader.
Travel insuranceVisa and vaccinationsSingle accommodation (available on
request)
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.
-8.png)
Download PDF 
