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Discover the natural beauty and rich heritage of Portugal as you hike through Alentejo and the Algarve along the Rota Vicentina trails.
Welcome to Portugal! Our walking and hiking adventure begins in the Alentejo region, celebrated for its exquisite wines and delightful cuisine. Step into the charm of its landscapes while hiking along the famed Rota Vicentina's rugged coast. We'll then venture to the enchanting port town of Lagos in the Algarve. Here, delve into the rich history that animates this lively place and wander through its bustling market—the heartbeat of local life. Our journey continues to the awe-inspiring Sagres, offering spectacular coastal views and a deep dive into the town's maritime heritage. To enrich your experience, we've carefully selected two distinctive hotels, each exemplifying a unique mix of comfort and authentic charm. A curated series of captivating experiences awaits, promising an unforgettable Portugal Hiking and Walking Tour!
Trip Wows
Hike spectacular sections of the historical and fishermen's trails along the scenic Rota Vicentina
Indulge in the flavors of Alentejo wines and savor authentic local meals fresh from the land and sea
Gain a fresh perspective and embark on a boat tour from the historically important port town of Lagos
Experience the most remote beaches around Sagres with an exciting 4x4 Jeep ride
Gather insights into Portugal's history, flora, and fauna on a guided hike with our local expert
Rota Vicentina—460-miles (750 km) of beautiful trails
Rota Vicentina trails
Hike sections of Rota Vicentina's extensive network of hiking trails that includes forest tracks, historical villages, and paths that hug the rugged coast.
What Guests are Saying
On this trip, you get to walk along the scenic trails of Rota Vicentina, following the fishermen's footprints and soaking in the breathtaking coastal views. You will explore the hidden and pristine beaches of Algarve and indulge in the rich Portuguese heritage as well as relax in our luxurious hotel of Lagos. This trip truly has it all!
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As long as you keep going to places we want to see and learn about we will be steadfast customers.
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Great Hike
Fishermen's Trail
Hike the spectacular Fishermen's Trail on the Rota Vicentina Coast from Cabo Sardão to Zambujeira do Mar.
Dates & Pricing
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Itinerary
Day-to-Day
View full itineraryWhere to Arrive
Airport:
Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS)
Pick-up location:
Lisbon Oriente Train Station
Pick-up time:
10:00 AM
Where to Depart
Airport:
Faro International Airport (FAO)
Drop-off location:
Faro train station or Faro airport
Drop-off time:
12:00 PM
Additional Arrival Information
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS). Public transportation is inexpensive and easy to use from the airport. You can take the Metro with a one-way ticket for 1.90€ or the daily pass (which allows you to use the metro, bus, trams, and trains) for 6€. More information can be found at www.metro.transporteslisboa.pt. Alternatively, taxis are plentiful and cost approximately 15-25€ to the center of Lisbon.
Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Oriente Lisbon train station at 10:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Please come dressed ready to hike. After a transfer of approximately two hours by private coach, enjoy lunch in Porto Covo as your guides explain how the trip will unfold. Once everyone is ready, you'll be off to the Rota Vicentina path to enjoy your first hike in Portugal.
If you will be late for the pick up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. If you cannot reach them, please call the trip hotel, Naturarte Campo Boutique Hotel (+351 913 619 939) and leave a message with your expected arrival time. A taxi from Lisbon to the hotel in Sao Luis will be approximately 100€.
Additional Departure Information
You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at Cascade Wellness Resort. You will take a private coach from the trip end to Faro (approximately a one-hour shuttle). Here you can take a train/plane to Lisbon or any other destination of your choice. Please do not book any transportation before 1:00 PM.
Get your first glimpse of the Alentejo region and the Rota Vicentina
Overview
Welcome to the first day of your incredible hiking adventure in Portugal! Your guides will welcome you at 10:00 AM at the Oriente Lisbon train station. A scenic two-hour shuttle ride takes you to our picturesque lunch spot in Porto Covo. After introductions and an outline of the day ahead, plus some handy trail tips, we'll enjoy a meal with a spectacular view. Our first hike takes us along the historical Fishermen's Trail on the Rota Vicentina. This scenic pathway, ... Welcome to the first day of your incredible hiking adventure in Portugal! Your guides will welcome you at 10:00 AM at the Oriente Lisbon train station. A scenic two-hour shuttle ride takes you to our picturesque lunch spot in Porto Covo. After introductions and an outline of the day ahead, plus some handy trail tips, we'll enjoy a meal with a spectacular view. Our first hike takes us along the historical Fishermen's Trail on the Rota Vicentina. This scenic pathway, tracing the breathtaking coastline, invites you to follow in the footsteps of fishermen who once sought out the best fishing spots along these shores. Once we reach Praia do Malhao, a quick shuttle transports us to our cozy, family-owned hotel, where you'll soak in Portuguese culture for the next two nights. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a social hour, previewing the week's adventures, before indulging in a traditional dinner at our hotel's restaurant. Read More
Hotel
Naturarte Campo Hotel
Meals included
Lunch I Social Hour | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Fishermen's Trail from Porto Covo
Experience the untamed beauty of Portugal's coastline on the Fishermen's Trail, a historic path woven with stories, where the sea's majesty ... Experience the untamed beauty of Portugal's coastline on the Fishermen's Trail, a historic path woven with stories, where the sea's majesty unveils itself. Read More
Hiking Options
Hike Option 1
TODAY'S HIKE:
Porto Covo to Paria dos Aivados - Approximately 3.75 mi | 6 km and 180 ft | 55 m
Hike along the Historical Way to the picturesque Pego das Pias nature area
Overview
Begin your day in the tranquil Portuguese countryside with a sunlight-bathed breakfast before setting off directly from the hotel. Your guides will lead you through the gardens of São Luis, joining both the Historical Way and Circular routes. As you ascend to the peak of São Domingos, take in sweeping views of the Beja district and the serene river Mira winding below. This enchanting trail weaves through local gardens and traditional farmland, with cork trees and ... Begin your day in the tranquil Portuguese countryside with a sunlight-bathed breakfast before setting off directly from the hotel. Your guides will lead you through the gardens of São Luis, joining both the Historical Way and Circular routes. As you ascend to the peak of São Domingos, take in sweeping views of the Beja district and the serene river Mira winding below. This enchanting trail weaves through local gardens and traditional farmland, with cork trees and fragrant eucalyptus lining your path. Connect with nature as you breathe in the fresh air and soak up the stunning scenery. We’ll loop back to the hotel for a quick change before shuttling to the fishing village of Vila Nova de Milfontes, where you can explore and have lunch at your own pace. From here you'll enjoy a leisurely boat ride up the Mira, learning about the local flora and fauna. We’ll end the day with a fabulous dinner at Ar'Terra in São Luis. Read More
Hotel
Naturarte Campo Hotel
Meals included
Breakfast I Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Vila Nova de Milfontes and the river Mira
Set along the scenic Mira River, Vila Nova de Milfontes—a picturesque Portuguese town meaning "new town of a thousand springs"—lies at t... Set along the scenic Mira River, Vila Nova de Milfontes—a picturesque Portuguese town meaning "new town of a thousand springs"—lies at the heart of the stunning Alentejo coastline, where river and coastal beaches converge. Read More
Hiking Options
Hike Option 1
TODAY'S HIKE:
Hortas de São Luís Loop - Approximately 5 mi | 8 km and 643 ft | 196 m
Activities
Activity 1
TODAY'S ACTIVITY:
Boat Cruise up the Mira River
Uncover Portugal's rich wine-making and culinary traditions as we make our way south
Overview
Get ready for an exciting journey south today! After packing our bags, we'll shuttle 30-minutes to start a magnificent coastal hike with extraordinary sea views, golden cliffs, and endless photo opportunities. Back on the Fishermen's Trail, you can expect to encounter local fishermen in their favorite spots along the way. Our midday stop finds us at Herdade do Touril where our special hosts will treat us to a private wine tasting that showcases the distinctive Alent... Get ready for an exciting journey south today! After packing our bags, we'll shuttle 30-minutes to start a magnificent coastal hike with extraordinary sea views, golden cliffs, and endless photo opportunities. Back on the Fishermen's Trail, you can expect to encounter local fishermen in their favorite spots along the way. Our midday stop finds us at Herdade do Touril where our special hosts will treat us to a private wine tasting that showcases the distinctive Alentejo wines, subtly influenced by the sea, then share regional dishes in the Portuguese family tradition. The route then continues to Zambujeira do Mar, a quaint fishing village perched on the rocky shoreline, followed by a one-hour shuttle to Lagos. Evening finds us at our hotel for dinner, refreshed by the gentle Mediterranean breeze. Read More
Hotel
Cascade Wellness Resort
Meals included
Breakfast I Lunch | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Featured Meal | Herdade do Touril
At Herdade do Touril, known for warm hospitality, you'll sip Alentejo wines at a fun, informative tasting, followed by a traditional family-... At Herdade do Touril, known for warm hospitality, you'll sip Alentejo wines at a fun, informative tasting, followed by a traditional family-style meal featuring fresh flavors sourced from the ocean. Read More
Hiking Options
Hike Option 1
TODAY'S HIKE:
Cabo Sardao to Zambujeira do Mar - Approximately 8 mi | 13 km and 276 ft | 84 m
Activities
Activity 1
TODAY'S ACTIVITY:
Private Wine Tasting and Lunch at Herdade do Touril
Join our local expert and discover the rich history of Lagos and its lively market
Overview
Delve into Lagos' rich history with a unique morning experience. Following breakfast, a local historian will guide us along the cliffs near our hotel, sharing insights into Lagos' storied past as an important Atlantic port town. Discover the famous Ponte da Piedade cliffs from above, one of Portugal's most photographed destinations. The journey continues into Lagos' historic center, where you're invited to explore the bustling market and enjoy lunch at your leisure.... Delve into Lagos' rich history with a unique morning experience. Following breakfast, a local historian will guide us along the cliffs near our hotel, sharing insights into Lagos' storied past as an important Atlantic port town. Discover the famous Ponte da Piedade cliffs from above, one of Portugal's most photographed destinations. The journey continues into Lagos' historic center, where you're invited to explore the bustling market and enjoy lunch at your leisure. Spend the afternoon as you wish, with the option to return to the hotel at any time for some relaxation. This evening, we'll reunite for a delightful dinner in the town, immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of Lagos. Read More
Hotel
Cascade Wellness Resort
Meals included
Breakfast I Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Learn more about Lagos history
Walk along the cliffs that once witnessed Portuguese explorers embarking on their historic voyages of discovery, including Vasco de Gama.
Hiking Options
Hike Option 1
TODAY'S HIKE:
Cascade Hotel to Lagos Market - Approximately 4 mi | 6 km and 263 ft | 80 m
Hike Option 2
AVID OPTION:
Cascade Hotel to Lagos Market Loop - Approximately 5 mi | 8.5 km and 440 ft | 134 m
Activities
Activity 1
TODAY'S ACTIVITY:
Guided historical hike along the Lagos coast
Activity 2
TODAY'S ACTIVITY:
Market visit in Lagos
Explore Sagres' wild coastal beauty in a thrilling 4x4 Jeep adventure
Overview
Swap hiking boots for four-wheel thrills today, as we venture inland back on the Historical Trail to Pedralva, a hidden gem in the countryside that has been transformed into a tranquil rural retreat. On this morning's hike, you'll experience old Portugal's charm and the stunning nature that surrounds you. We continue the morning in the Jeeps taking us to remote viewpoints of the spectacular cliffs and beaches. For lunch we head to the small coastal town of Sagres, a...
Swap hiking boots for four-wheel thrills today, as we venture inland back on the Historical Trail to Pedralva, a hidden gem in the countryside that has been transformed into a tranquil rural retreat. On this morning's hike, you'll experience old Portugal's charm and the stunning nature that surrounds you. We continue the morning in the Jeeps taking us to remote viewpoints of the spectacular cliffs and beaches. For lunch we head to the small coastal town of Sagres, a town resonant with the echoes of Portugal's Age of Discovery, home to the iconic Fortaleza de Sagres and the famed Prince Henry the Navigator. Spend your time here exploring and enjoying a leisurely lunch. For the afternoon choose between some relaxation at the hotel or our avid option hiking back along the coast on the Fishermans Trail.
We'll conclude the day at the hotel with a farewell social hour and sensational 8 course dinner, a perfect moment to celebrate a week filled with unforgettable memories.
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Hotel
Cascade Wellness Resort
Meals included
Breakfast | Social Hour | Dinner
Highlight of the Day
Uncover the secrets of Sagres
Walk around Sagres and its renowned fortress, while delving deeper into its rich history.
Hiking Options
Hike Option 1
TODAY'S MORNING HIKE:
Praia de Barranco to Sagres - Approximately 5.3mi | 8.6 km and 285 ft | 87 m
Hike Option 2
TODAY'S AFTERNOON HIKE:
Valarinha to Pedralva - Approximately 2.8 mi | 4.6 km and 485 ft | 236 m
Activities
Activity 1
TODAY'S ACTIVITY:
Jeep Tour of remote beaches around Sagres
Experience Lagos from a new vantage point aboard a private boat
Overview
Following a light breakfast, board a small boat for a one-hour tour, providing a very unique perspective of Lagos. The captain will guide you through several caves before returning to shore. If you'd rather stay on land, you can opt for a coastal hike on the Fishermen's Trail to catch one last glimpse of the Mediterranean Sea. Bid farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the hotel, then take a final shuttle to Faro, taking roughly one hour. To avoid any potential dela... Following a light breakfast, board a small boat for a one-hour tour, providing a very unique perspective of Lagos. The captain will guide you through several caves before returning to shore. If you'd rather stay on land, you can opt for a coastal hike on the Fishermen's Trail to catch one last glimpse of the Mediterranean Sea. Bid farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the hotel, then take a final shuttle to Faro, taking roughly one hour. To avoid any potential delays due to traffic, please don't book any train or plane before 1:00 PM. Read More
Meals included
Breakfast
Highlight of the Day
Private boat tour from Lagos
Embark on a private adventure on a small boat to get a distinctive oceanside view of Lagos.
Hiking Options
Hike Option 1
TODAY'S OPTIONAL HIKE:
Luz Lagos from Cascade Resort Loop - Approximately 3.5 mi | 6 km and 508 ft | 155 m
Activities
Activity 1
TODAY'S ACTIVITY:
Lago boat tour
View full itinerary to print.
View full itineraryActivity Information
On most Trek Travel trips, we offer non-hiking options for guests who want to take the afternoon off, or travel companions who want to spend little or no time on the trails. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Expenses and/or related transportation to these activities may not be included in the trip price. Some non-hiking options on our Portugal Hiking and Walking Tour are:
We've got you covered on and off the trail! During our Portugal hiking and walking trip, you'll never venture alone. A guide will be with you on the trail at all times. Depending on the group size, another guide will either be waiting with the van at the hike's end or walking by your side. And when you're not hiking, our guides are at your service for anything you need—from booking massage appointments to helping you find that special local treat you've been craving. So go ahead and take on those trails with confidence—we'll be with you every step of the way.
- Fully guided and supported with two guides and one support van on select days
- Daily hikes with options available where possible, depending on the group size
- Local guides who share their stories and intimate knowledge of the area
Hotels
Sao Luis, Portugal
Naturarte Campo Boutique Hotel
ExplorerNaturarte Campo, a boutique hotel near the Mira River, that emphasizes art, identity, and interaction on a family estate. Enjoy an outdoor pool, expansive countryside views, uniquely designed rooms blending vintage and modern elements, a tennis court, and a generous buffet breakfast. Dedicated to nature conservation and regional traditions, Naturarte offers an authentic Alentejo Southwest retreat, perfect for exploring and discovering.
...
Lagos, Portugal
Cascade Wellness Resort
LuxuryPoised atop a stunning cliff overlooking the historic city of Lagos, Cascade Wellness Resort invites you to indulge in an active holiday at one of the Algarve coast’s top-tier five-star establishments. Immerse in contemporary elegance, pamper yourself with top-notch spa experiences, and delight in exquisite dining. Enjoy an unforgettable getaway with the added treat of breathtaking coastal vistas!
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Trek Travel Guides
The World’s Best
From the moment you meet our guides, you'll understand the difference. You'll feel the genuine care they take to make your vacation perfect. From their expert support to sharing their favorite hidden spots, they tailor every moment to you.
Certified GuidesTrip Inclusions
- Five nights of accommodation at handpicked hotels
- Daily breakfast, three lunches, and four dinners
- Two social hours of drinks and hors d'oeuvres
- Trek Travel water bottle to keep
- A technical t-shirt to keep
- One or two experienced guides to provide local knowledge, support, and camaraderie
- Daily route support with minimum one guide staying with the group
- Snacks and drinks for each day's hike
- Post-hike refreshments
- Hiking poles available for use on trip*
- A backpack available for use on trip*
- Binoculars to share
- Some route options available, depending on region and group size
- Entrance fees for all activities, private tours, and events
- All gratuities for drivers, local experts, and hospitality staff
- All luggage transfers and transportation during your trip
- A digital photo album of your trip
- *We have a limited number of hiking poles and backpacks available for use. We strongly recommend you bring your own.
Additional Details
Know Before You Go!
We want you to be fully prepared for you hiking and walking tour with us. This involves making sure that you choose the appropriate trip for you and that every aspect of your experience is flawless. Each Trek Travel trip is unique to ensure maximum enjoyment every time.
Your Trip Need to Knows:
- For a comfortable hiking experience, we recommend wearing sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes with high ankle support.
- Certain hikes on this trip may not be suitable for individuals experiencing vertigo.
Before and After Your Trip
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, known as the city of seven hills, is the capital city of Portugal overflowing with great café culture, music, art, and gratuitous history. You'll be enchanted by the narrow, cobbled streets and white washed walls, ochre roofs, and colorful splashes of ceramic tiles. Be sure to walk the streets of some of the many storied neighborhoods and certainly don't pass up a pastéis de nata, Portugal's mouthwatering custard tart. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre- and post-trip hotel:
Where to Stay
Moxy Lisboa Oriente
Moxy Lisboa Oriente, a Marriott property, is situated in the heart of Parque das Nações, Lisbon's creative and forward-thinking hub. This chic hotel, featuring a fitness center, lounge area, and bar, boasts an unbeatable location near Lisbon's bustling Oriente train station and is just minutes from the airport. www.moxy-lisboa-oriente.com
Tivoli Oriente Lisboa
The recently renovated Tivoli Hotel Lisboa offers a prime location in Parque das Nações, just steps from the city's major transport services. After a day of exploring, unwind with a drink at the stunning Sky Bar, where you can toast to your Trek Travel vacation while watching the sunset over Lisbon's beautiful skyline. www.tivolihotels.com
Hotel White Lisboa
Modern boutique hotel offers panoramic views and comfortable accommodation in the centre. Hotel White Lisbon features an outdoor swimming pool and views of the city. www.hotelwhitelisboa.com
FAQs
The south central region of Portugal sees favorable temperatures year round, but spring and fall are the best time to visit with average 70-80 degree highs (21-26ºC) and lows of 50-55 degrees (10-12ºC). Mornings and evenings in fall can be cooler so make sure to pack layers. Rain is infrequent but there is always a chance for a shower so don’t forget your rain gear to assure you comfort while walking.
View our Packing List
To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.
*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.
**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, Discover, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.
When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation email is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know. You will also receive instructions to download the Ride with GPS app before your trip to provide you the day to day plan.
With one person booked on a date, the trip becomes guaranteed.*
In the case where trips are at one or two guests, we will contact you prior to final payment to give you the following options:
Pay a small trip fee of $500 per person for two guests or $1000 for one guest, which ensures your preferred trip date will run. If there are three or more guests before departure date, the fee will be refunded in full.
or
Switch to a different trip or different departure date. Should there be any difference in trip price between your original trip and the new one, you will be expected to pay the difference, or we will refund you accordingly.
Offer only valid if Trek Travel contacts a guest to discuss these specific options. Bike trips with fewer than three guests may operate with only one guide. The guide will support all rides with a Trek Travel van. If you would like to discuss the option of having two guides, please speak with your trip consultant.
The small trip supplement for Ride Camps is as follows – for two guests an additional $250 or for one guest an additional $500.
*Cross Country, Discover, Race, and Special Edition trips as well as a small number of select departures have a minimum guest count to guarantee. Please check with your Trip Consultant for more information.
Unforeseen events may make it necessary to cancel or modify a trip. Our Guest Services team will update you with any changes. We reserve the right to cancel departures in cases of force majeure or the failure of third parties—such as hotels—to honor their reservations, in which case all payments received to date will be refunded, which constitutes full settlement. Trek Travel is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets, or for costs that are incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly encourage Travel Protection for complete coverage.
We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.
Read our Cancellation Policy
Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.
Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us.
Learn more about our Travel Protection
We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services
Sharing the joy that comes with wow moments
Guide gratuities are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Signature trip, we suggest a tip for your guides between $240-$300 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience. While local currency is preferred, there are other options to make tipping easier. Most guides accept gratuity via PayPal or our staff can help before or after the trip. Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.
Like everything else about your vacation, the Trek Travel team is here to make this experience easier for you. While local currency is preferred, you may also tip through the following options:
Via PayPal (please have this account set up in advance when possible) or with your guest services representative on the phone before or after the trip.
Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.
You cannot put a price on a wow. But you can show your thanks for an exceptional experience.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See Hiking & Walking FAQs
