Walking Portugal's Wild Algarve

Walking Portugal's Wild Algarve

8 Days Starting in Monchique and ending in Sagres

Visiting: Portugal

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

TSV

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 16

Physical rating:

Easy & Moderate

Age range:

16-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Please inform Exodus of specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English
From: $2625

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Passing wild beaches, whitewashed villages and towering cliffs, the Rota Vicentina is one of the great hiking routes in Europe. We’ve handpicked the very best walks from this extensive network, visiting some of the few remaining undeveloped shores of the Algarve. The adventure starts in picturesque Monchique, where medicinal waters and a thermal spa make the town an ideal place to ease into the trip. Transferring to the coast, we walk on quiet cliff trails (used by local people to access the beaches and best fishing spots) and end in the town of Sagres. The refreshing coastal breezes and inviting landscape make walking in this remote corner of Europe truly reinvigorating.

Highlights

  • Walk the finest trails on the Rota Vicentina, one of Europe’s great hiking routes

  • Sip local wine with new-found friends during a vineyard tasting experience

  • Visit a family-run mill to sample premium olive oil, a speciality of Monchique

  • Take a scenic clifftop walk to Cabo de Sao Vicente, the most southwesterly point in Europe

  • Stay in three beautiful Algarve communities: Monchique, Aljezur and Sagres

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Start In The Thermal Spa Town Of Monchique

This trip starts in Monchique in the heart of the Algarve, approximately a one-hour drive from Faro. This small town is a quiet, peaceful place but the central square has a welcoming atmosphere with fountains and flowers. We stay in the Caldas de Monchique area, home to alkaline thermal springs that have been popular since Roman times. Meet at the hotel reception at 6pm for the welcome briefing.



Accommodation: Hotel Villa Termal Caldas de Monchique – Pure (or similar)

Day 2 : Alferce Loop Walk And Ceramics Art Gallery Visit

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

We have a morning transfer (approximately 20 minutes) to São Romão Church, where we start with a relatively short hike of the Alferce Loop, which has superb views throughout. There’s an optional visit to the Moorish castle ruins of Castelo de Alferce, which stands on a hilltop in the eastern border of Serra de Monchique, offering a strategic defensive position and expansive views. Archaeological work here reveals a long history of occupation, from the Bronze Age to the Islamic Medieval period (8th-10th centuries CE).



In the afternoon, we explore Studio Bongard Ceramics in Monchique. This tranquil space features ceramic sculptures, blending exotic and rustic elements and allowing visitors to explore the gallery, studio and gardens.



Accommodation: Hotel Villa Termal Caldas de Monchique – Pure (or similar)

Day 3 : Walk The Landscape Surrounding Monchique; Olive Oil Tasting

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Monchique is in a region strongly marked by agricultural and forestry, which has resulted in a mosaic landscape of vegetable gardens, orchards and quercine tree groves. We hike the areas surrounding the town, giving us a chance to experience this fertile landscape.



Later, we visit a traditional olive oil mill for a tasting. The olive oil produced in Monchique is celebrated and this particular mill has been producing some of the best since 1953. Today, three generations of the family are actively involved in the operations of the mill, helping to produce a premium olive oil.



In the afternoon, we transfer (approximately 45 minutes) to Arrifana.



Accommodation: Hotel Vale da Telha (or similar)

Day 4 : Coastal Walk To Odeceixe; Admire Fascinating Rock And Cliff Formations And Some Of The Best Beaches In Portugal; Wine Tasting In Vicentino Wines; Transfer To Vale Da Telha

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, we transfer (approximately 35 minutes) to Carvalhal Beach, the start of today’s walk. The cliff face on this stretch of the walk is particularly interesting as it’s composed of schist and greywacke – the consolidation of sand, clay and volcanic ash which accumulated on an ocean floor more than 300m years ago.



This whole coastal region is believed by many to have a special energy, and it was here the fado artist and singer 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 colour 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 mountaintop of Fóia and Monchique as a backdrop. We then stop at the vineyards of Vicentino for a wine tasting before transferring to our hotel near Arrifana Beach. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or a drink on the sunny terrace before dinner.



Accommodation: Hotel Vale da Telha (or similar)

Day 5 : Free Day; Enjoy An Optional Circular Walk To Arrifana Beach Or Other Activities Such As Surfing

Meals Included: Breakfast

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 in this popular surfing destination. While your tour leader will not accompany you on your free day, they can help you book the optional activities. A self-guided walk around Arrifana is also possible (7.5mi/12km loop).



Accommodation: Hotel Vale da Telha (or similar)

Day 6 : Circular Walk Around Carrapateira; Enjoy Ocean Views And The Sandy Beaches Of Bordeira And Amado; Transfer To Sagres

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

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. 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 pristine sheltered beaches.



Accommodation: Memmo Baleeira Hotel (or similar)

Day 7 : Final Cliff Walk To Cabo De Sao Vicente, The Southwesternmost Point In Continental Europe; Afternoon Optional Visit To Sagres Fort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Surrounded by foaming Atlantic breakers, Cabo de Sao Vicente marks the most southwesterly 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 head 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 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 clifftop before a memorable arrival at Cabo de Sao Vicente, where we find a lighthouse, museum and small bar offering wonderful photo opportunities. 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.



Accommodation: Memmo Baleeira Hotel (or similar)

Day 8 : End Sagres

Meals Included: Breakfast

This trip ends in Sagres today. If you’d like to spend a little more time in this beautiful part of Europe, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

What's Included

  • All breakfasts, five picnic lunches and one wine tasting

  • All accommodation

  • Tour leader throughout

  • Group arrival and departure transfers available

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

  • Visa and vaccinations

  • Single accommodation (available on request)

Accommodation

We use three unique hotels, all with a swimming pool and two with spa facilities. The hotels we normally use are:



Monchique: Hotel Villa Termal Caldas de Monchique – Pure (nights 1-2)







This 22-room boutique property with mountain and valley views sits within the Villa Termal Caldas de Monchique Spa Resort. That provides easy access to plenty of excellent amenities, including an outside pool, several green areas and the Thermal spa. There’s also a restaurant serving a mix of traditional Portuguese and contemporary cuisines plus a selection of bars.



Aljezur: Hotel Vale da Telha (nights 3-5)







Modest but well suited for our adventures, Hotel Vale da Telha has a relaxed atmosphere and modern rooms with balconies. When it’s time to relax, head to the pool area, where you’ll find shaded loungers on a spacious wooden sundeck.



Sagres: Memmo Baleeira Hotel (nights 6-7)







Enjoy magnificent vistas of the Atlantic Ocean with a stay at this four-star design hotel. The 144 rooms and suites have views over the sea or Baleeira Harbour, while the property also has an outdoor pool, plus a spa, heated indoor pool, Turkish bath and sauna.

Food

All breakfasts and five picnic lunches are included.



The picnic lunches will include a mix of sandwiches, cheeses, cured meats and fruit.



During the week, we get the opportunity to sample delicacies and traditional dishes from this region, including fresh seafood and fish. The local speciality from the sea is gooseneck barnacles (also known as perceves); taken from the bottom of submerged cliffs, they are harvested by hand using a dangerous and traditional method, which involves one of the two collectors dangling from a rope attached to the clifftops! Away from the sea, the dried hams, salamis and cheeses are excellent. Good quality meat is also always on the menu. Vegetables are plentiful but, although vegetarian dishes are available in traditional restaurants, the choice may be limited.

Check out our Q&As

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    The minimum age for this tour is 16 years old.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights are not included with this tour.

  • Who is Exodus Travels?

    At Exodus Travels, we've been exploring the world for nearly 50 years. From Walking and Trekking, Cultural and Cycling, Responsible Wildlife, to Polar and our new Premium Adventures, we are proud to offer award-winning small group and self-guided tours to 100+ countries worldwide.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, our local guides are English speaking.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    If you would like to be paired with a tour member of the same gender, there is no additional charge. A single supplement can be requested if you would like your own room.

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    We are happy to assist with pre and post tour accommodation. Please enquire for detailed information.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Perfectly Curated

Francisco & Rafael delivered a perfect flavour of the Algarve. Just the right amount of walking, visiting artisans and local producers & restaurants serving delicious regional specialities and wines as well as sharing their knowledge and passion for their country in a fun, safe environment.

Beautiful coastline

This is a great trip if you enjoy the sea air with great views over the clifftops.

An excellent week in Portugal

A very well organised trip, superb scenery, stunning views on all of the walks. The two guides were very knowledgeable and lead the group in a pleasant and professional manner. They found great venues for meals in each location.

Great week - stunning scenery!

Another great Exodus trip. Breathtaking scenery, pleasant walks & good company made it a very enjoyable week.

Amazing week in Portugal!

What a stunning coastline to walk, combined with amazing food, wine tasting and brilliant company. The hotels were great too, way above my expectations. What more could you ask for! Our guides Francisco and Ines were fantastic, so knowledgeable and making sure we were safe on our walks. Would definitely recommend this holiday.

Portugal’s Coast and Beaches

An excellent week walking down the south west coast of Portugal. The views were stunning, hotels were comfortable and food was amazing. A special mention for our guides Francisco and Ines who were friendly and knowledgeable, going above and beyond to ensure we all had a wonderful time. The walking is mostly straightforward, but there is some walking across soft sand dunes. Would thoroughly recommend this holiday.

Very well-organized trip in the stunning Algarve of Portugal

My first group tour walking holiday and I enjoyed it immensely. Every walk was different - a really nice mix of mountains and coast - and the scenery was stunning. Interesting bits of history, geology, and biology from Francisco, the trip leader, who is from the area, added a lot to the value of the experience for me. Perfect amount of walking each day, peppered with rest stops at cafes (the best parts of the trip, in my opinion) and visits with local artisans, plus a couple surprises that made the experience more memorable. Francisco and Raphael were great guides and it was awesome to just relax and let them take care of all the logistics.

Amazing vacation!

Hikes along the coastline provided stunning views, coastal breezes, sounds of waves and pristine beaches. Francisco shared his extensive knowledge of the fauna and birds of the region and engaged the group in discussions on the environment. We enjoyed great food and wine and the visits to the Vicentino Vineyard and Junior Jacques Distillery were highlights!

Excellent inspite of some heavy rain

Excellent mixture of some hill walking for the first three days and then some spectacular Atlantic coastal scenery for the rest of the trip.A very nice group who got on well together.

Perfect! The area is so diverse, historical, profound and exceedingly beautiful!!!

An amazing trip to share a spectacular area of Portugal with 10 others and 2 exceptional guides. The Tour was well organized; flowed well; prompt; lovely hotels each quite diverse.Appreciated the “eco” focus of our guides and also the introduction to local artisans and businesses. My first trip to Portugal and I learned so much!Really appreciated the guides providing poles to hike with as I couldn’t bring in hand luggage from Canada.Guides worked well together and were well attuned to what was happening and knowledgeable.Amazed at the differences of each hike despite the proximity and being a “mountain girl” I also appreciated our start there.Highly recommend this tour for anyone who love nature and hiking!!🥾

Read all 33 reviews

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  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

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