Great communication. Answered all of our questions in a timely manner. Our 7 day self guided trip (5 days of hiking) was both beautiful and challenging. The hike we did-Algarve Southwest Coast-is recommended for experienced hikers. You will encounter some steep ascents/descents so be sure to match hikes with your experience. Luis was extremely helpful and available when we had questions. The provided app with maps and restaurants/sights suggestions worked well. The hotels were excellent. Highly recommended!
Walking Tour in Algarve: exploring the Portuguese Southwest Coast
Highlights
This is a 7-day self-guided hiking holiday in the Algarve region, exploring the rugged coastline and white sand beaches of the Portuguese southwest Coast.
A memorable journey along the Rota Vicentina, a network of trails renowned for their stunning coastal scenery and the tranquility of the Vicentina Coast Natural Park. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the Vicentina Coast Natural Park, where charming fisherman villages, panoramic ocean vistas, a plethora of birdlife, and captivating natural beauty await you. Venture into one of Southern Europe’s last remaining stretches of pristine wilderness: You’ll be hiking on coastal cliff-top trails, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the rugged coastline, and discovering secluded beaches, hidden coves, and idyllic stretches of coastline like Amoreira, Amado, Arrifana, Castelejo, and more. Indulge in the region’s rich culinary heritage at charming hotels nestled amidst the whitewashed villages.
Savor the freshest seafood and delectable local dishes that showcase the region’s culinary traditions. Your journey culminates at Europe’s southwestern most point, the iconic Cape of São Vicente, near to where Portuguese navigators set sail to discover new worlds in the 15th century. Stand in awe of the dramatic cliffs and stunning ocean views, and feel the echoes of history that linger in the air.
Gallery
Day to day
Day 1: Meeting at your hotel/airport in Faro, transfer to Aljezur and private briefing
Today, our guide will meet you at Faro airport or at the hotel you’re staying, to transfer you to Aljezur. There, we’ll provide you with a detailed briefing and go through the hiking tour’s Routebook. Check in at your hotel in central Aljezur, and enjoy the rest of your day, exploring the village.
Hotels: Vicentina hotel (upgrade to superior room in “premium” option)
Day 2: 1st Hike – Aljezur – Arrifana – 23km, 500m accumulated height
Start your hike towards the top of Aljezur, where the ruins of it’s medieval Castle stand sentinel, a symbol of resilience and historical significance. Its panoramic views offer a glimpse of the villages's whitewashed houses, in a maze of streets and alleys, with Southwest Algarve’s green nature as backdrop. Hike along the scenic trails of the Rota Vicentina which will lead you to the picturesque beaches of Arrifana and Monte Clérigo. Follow the coastline towards Arrifana beach, where breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean await. Settle into the charming hotel ‘Herdade do Monte do Sol’ and recap your first day.
Hotels: Herdade Monte do Sol (upgrade to superior room in “premium” option)
Day 3: 2nd Hike – Arrifana – Carrapateira – 22km, 330m accumulated height
Today, you will embark on a coastal hike, exploring the Rota Vicentina trails. We’ll begin from Arrifana and head towards the secluded beach of Canal Beach, nestled beneath the cliffs of Arrifana. After soaking up the beauty of Praia do Canal, you’ll venture inland along macadam trails, weaving through a verdant forest until reaching Ribeira da Bordeira. From here, you’ll cross a paved road that will guide you to Carrapateira, where you’ll check in at your lodging, Casa Fajara.
Hotels: Casa Fajara (upgrade to superior room in “premium” option)
Day 4: 3rd Hike – Carrapateira – Amado – Pedralva 17km, 250m accumulated height
On today’s picturesque coastal hike, you’ll be venturing through two of Portugal's most captivating beaches – Bordeira and Amado. Pack your swimsuit for a refreshing dip along the way, as the Atlantic Ocean will beckon you with its inviting turquoise waves. After taking in the sun-kissed scenery of the Amado beach, you'll journey inland towards Carrapateira, following the meandering Bordeira stream until youreach the charming village of Pedralva. This beautifully restored village offers a rustic retreat, perfect for unwinding after the day's adventure.
Hotels: Aldeia de Pedralva (upgrade to superior room in “premium” option)
Day 5: 4th Hike – Pedralva – Vila do Bispo 17km, 213m accumulated height
Continue your journey through this coastal forested area, down south. Enjoy the climb and the views from the top of the wind turbine park. Descend into Vila do Bispo, following the route towards Praia do Castelejo, to check out an amazing viewpoint over Praia da Cordoama. Hike back to Vila do Bispo and check-in at Pura Esteva, your hotel for the night. Make sure to try our one of Vila do Bispo’s traditional restaurants.
Hotels: Pura Esteva (upgrade to superior room in “premium” option)
Day 6: 5th hike – Vila do Bispo – Sagres 24km, 331m accumulated height
Starting from Vila do Bispo, you will follow the dirt roads leading to Ponta Ruiva’s beach, the last one on your hiking adventure along the Portuguese Southwest Coast. You’ll finally reach the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe, Cabo de São Vicente, standing defiant, with its weathered cliffs plunging into the relentless Atlantic waves. From there, hike towards Sagres fortress to see its lighthouse. Finally, check in at your hotel situated atop Baleeira beach.
Hotels: Memmo Baleeira (upgrade to superior rooms in “premium” option)
Day 7: Check-out from your hotel and transfer from Sagres to Faro airport/hotel
Breakfast at the hotel. At the scheduled time, you’ll be transfer to Faro, either to the airport or an accommodation/hotel within these cities’ limits.
Map
This tour offers a variety of terrains, from scenic cliffside paths with sweeping ocean vistas to tranquil forested trails and winding dirt roads. You'll explore serene beaches framed by dramatic cliffs, traverse macadam trails through verdant valleys, and encounter traditional villages steeped in history. While some ascents lead to rewarding panoramic views, the routes are mostly moderate with gentle climbs and descents. Perfectly balanced between coastal and inland landscapes, this tour immerses you in the raw, untamed beauty of the Southwest Coast.
Tour options
Tour options
Tour prices
Group dates
Your group, your dates.



AT YOUR SERVICE
Our team is composed of Portuguese tour leaders and walking enthusiasts, in love with our country and proud to present the best landscapes, gastronomy, history, culture and experiences to anyone who chooses to hike in Portugal.
We are seasoned travelers and love the proximity and timeless feeling of exploring new turns, mountains, beaches and viewpoints on foot. Our passion is to share these feelings with you, so that you fall in love with Portugal as much as we are too.
Our team is composed of dedicated guides, making sure our guests’ walking holidays run smoothly and exceed their expectations.
After a great day outdoors, it's time to relax
We work with the best hotels and SPA's, to guarantee you full-access to great relaxing experiences and a good night's sleep after your hiking is done.
/ Access to the best SPAs;
/ Free time for sightseeing;
/ Experience adapted to your own pace and holiday style;
We strive to provide our guests with time to relax and immerse into the atmosphere, providing a balance between great activities and well deserved “me time” on your walking holidays Portugal!
WALKING HOLIDAYS FOR EVERY TYPE OF HIKER
While planning your holidays, our staff will contact you to ask for further details to better design a tour more suited to you. However, all our tours are built to adapt to groups with different hiking experience, having shorter and longer options. For "expert" hikers, we provide additional challenges. Or you are welsome to take a day off; we invite all our guests on our guided tours to simply hop into our vans if they want to enjoy a recovery day.
HIKER TYPES:
1 BEGINNER
/ I walk/hike on a regular basis, for fitness. I prefer rolling terrain but enjoy reaching my goals and enjoy an active lifestyle. I like to overcome some challenges, but mostly enjoy the landscapes and atmosphere, going out on hikes up to 2 or three hours.
You will get to hike at your own pace, in moderate distances and hop on our van if you so desire or challenge yourself when you feel comfortable! You’ll get to walk in a group with like-minded people and accompanied by our guides, discovering the best of Portugal
2 INTERMEDIATE
/ Hiking is a great part of my life, and I walk regularly. I am comfortable with hikes of 3 to 4 hours, or even more at a relatively strong pace. I like to be challenged and to surpass obstacles, so that I can explore more and discover the most beautiful places.
You will get to explore different riding experiences, from tougher climbs to walking along in great company. You’ll have time to enjoy the great landscapes, but also enjoy the descents and push yourself climbing those tough hills. You’ll enjoy the variety of terrain, and pushing a little harder to get off the beaten path.
3 EXPERT
/ I am an explorer by nature and understand I have to push myself to get to the top of the summit. I love to climb, hike and tackle big climbs to long, technical descents, especially the ones that allow me to push my limits and make long lasting memories. I love to spend the full day hiking.
You’ll get to hike the best Portuguese trails and push yourself as hard as you can, as at the end of the day, you know you’ll be able to rest and relax. Lead the pack and take on the special extra-challenges we have in store for you – try to keep up with our guides as you go for the extra mile just before your well deserved rest and massage at the hotel!
Walking holidays Portugal for all.
/ From 5 to 8 guests, 5% discount for guests;
/ From 9 to 12 guests, 7.5% discount for guests;
/ From 12 hikers to 20 guests, 10% discount for guests;













