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Highlights
Explore Portugal’s Vicentina Coast on an 8-day self-guided walking adventure
Discover the greatest treasures of the Vicentina Coast, walking seaside towns, unspoiled beaches, and stunning uplands.
Step back in time as you discover an ancient legend in the mystical town of Ponta da Atalaia.
Walk among enchanting village orchards, admiring the flourishing olive, fig, and lemon trees.
Experience the gastronomic highlights of this region, feasting on the freshest seafood straight from the ocean.
The Vicentina Coast is one of Europe's most spectacular coastlines, spanning both the Alentejo and Algarve regions of Portugal. It boasts unrivalled natural beauty, with infinite stretches of golden sand flanked by towering limestone cliffs next to the expansive Atlantic Ocean.
The 8-day Vicentina Coast Walking Tour unfolds on the Alentejano e Costa Vicentina Natural Park's stunning landscapes. Your journey begins in the traditional fishing village of Porto Covo, leading you south along the coast through a myriad of seaside cities and villages, each with its own unique atmosphere and charm.
Captivated by the natural beauty that surrounds you, you'll spend your days walking glorious trails, leading you to discover beaches, orchards and traditional small villages along the way. As you walk from Almogrove to Zambujeira do Mar, be amazed by the magical red sand dunes that mark your way, keeping your eyes peeled for the long-billed storks that nest high up on the cliffs. Recline on the beautiful beaches of Aivados and Malhão, sinking your feet in the sand before a refreshing ocean dip—the perfect treat after a day of walking.
The greatest treasures of the Vicentina Coast are yours to discover. Enjoy it at your own pace on this self-guided adventure!
The Vicentina Coast is one of Europe's most spectacular coastlines, spanning both the Alentejo and Algarve regions of Portugal. It boasts unrivalled natural beauty, with infinite stretches of golden sand flanked by towering limestone cliffs next to the expansive Atlantic Ocean.
The 8-day Vicentina Coast Walking Tour unfolds on the Alentejano e Costa Vicentina Natural Park's stunning landscapes. Your journey begins in the traditional fishing village of Porto Covo, leading you south along the coast through a myriad of seaside cities and villages, each with its own unique atmosphere and charm.
Captivated by the natural beauty that surrounds you, you'll spend your days walking glorious trails, leading you to discover beaches, orchards and traditional small villages along the way. As you walk from Almogrove to Zambujeira do Mar, be amazed by the magical red sand dunes that mark your way, keeping your eyes peeled for the long-billed storks that nest high up on the cliffs. Recline on the beautiful beaches of Aivados and Malhão, sinking your feet in the sand before a refreshing ocean dip—the perfect treat after a day of walking.
The greatest treasures of the Vicentina Coast are yours to discover. Enjoy it at your own pace on this self-guided adventure!
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Vicentina Coast Walking Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival
Welcome to Portugal’s capital city, Lisbon! Once you touch down at the airport, a private transfer will take you to your accommodations in Porto Covo.
Enjoy the evening at your leisure, exploring the many sights and sounds of the charming seaside village of Porto Covo. Enjoy dinner straight from the sea, at one of the many local seafood restaurants offering an authentic Portuguese seafood experience.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Porto Covo
Distance: None
Meals: None
Day 2 Walk Beach Trails to Vila Nova de Milfontes
Today your journey begins with a full day of walking. From Porto Covo, you’ll walk ancient trails that weave their way through the numerous beaches. These trails were built many years ago by the local fisherman seeking access to the fish-flushed waters.
Enjoy the unwavering ocean breeze as you make your way along the trails that span the Ilha do Pessegueiro, Aivados, and Malhão beaches.
Arriving in Vila Nova de Milfontes, you’ll reach tonight’s accommodations. Unwind after an action-packed first day of walking in this welcoming seaside town. Perhaps enjoy some more fresh seafood this evening, followed by a sunset stroll on the beach.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Vila Nova de Milfontes
Distance: 7 hours, 20 km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Walk the Coast to Almograve
The trail today begins at a bridge where you’ll find all-encompassing views of Vila Nova de Milfontes.
From Vila Nova de Milftones, continue along a peaceful stretch of serene land beside the coast, rich in vegetation and colour. This area is home to lots of birds and small mammals, providing ample opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat.
From the end of today’s trail on the coast, a transfer will take you to Odemira, where you’ll find tonight’s accommodations, Herdade da Estacada. Enjoy dinner at this charming guesthouse before settling in for a comfortable night’s rest.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Odemira
Distance: 5 hours, 15 km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Almograve, Zambujeira do Mar, and Cape Sardão
Today’s journey from Almogrove to Zambujeira do Mar is another full-day walk packed with highlights. Admire the reddish sand dunes that unfold before you and jump on the opportunity to see nesting storks high up on the cliffs. In addition to the storks, over 20 species of birds nest in this area, making the trail a perfect birdwatching site.
Your final stretch of the trail today will bring you to the towering lighthouse of Cape Sardão before tonight’s accommodations in Monte das Alpenduradas.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Monte das Alpenduradas
Distance: 7 hours, 22 km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Walk to Odeceixe
Enjoy unforgettable views this morning as you walk the trails, hugged closely by the soaring cliffs of the coast. As you walk from Zambujeira do Mar to Odeceixe, the scenery is breathtaking.
Tonight’s stay is in a charming rural location where you’ll be greeted by warm hospitality. Enjoy a delicious dinner and do some stargazing before bed.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Odeceixe
Distance: 7 hours, 18 km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Historical Trail and Odeceixe Beach Trail
There are two options for walkers to choose from today.
Option 1: Historical Walk to Aljezur, 18 km
This trail follows Mira’s watering channel fed by the waters of the Santa Clara Dam. The views are epic, with mountains to your east and ocean to your west.
Next, you’ll cross the uplands and get a feel for rural life on the coast as you make your way past working farms, growing sweet potatoes, corn, peanuts and more! The trail continues, lined by towering pine and eucalyptus trees. As you pass through small villages, you’ll admire their vibrant orchards of olives, figs, and lemon trees that trace your path.
Finally, Aljezur emerges, and you will reach tonight’s accommodations at the Vicentina Aparthotel.
Option 2: Odeceixe Beach and Historical Trail to Aljezur, 23 km
This route combines the fisherman trail along Odeceixe beach and the historical trail to reach Aljezur. The initial stretch of trail traces the Seixe River, later joining the historical trail leading you through the lovely uplands. Finally, the trail will take you on the Amoreira beach trail, leading you to tonight’s accommodations in Aljezur. Enjoy the cobbled streets and whitewashed houses that make Aljezur such a charming coastal town.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Aljezur
Distance: 7-8 hours, 18-23 km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Historical Trails and Ancient Legends
Today’s circular route begins back on the historical trail, taking the fisherman’s way to Arrifana.
Be sure to ask about the ancient conquest of the Moors and the fairytale legend that originates from the mystical town of Ponta da Atalaia, which the trail will take you through.
The circuit will lead you through a mix of recently urbanized areas and unspoiled stretches of stunning natural beauty. Take in the human made lake, which is home to plenty of animals.
Finally, follow the trail of eucalyptus trees that will lead you back to your hotel in Aljezur. Enjoy your final evening in this picturesque town enjoying one last dinner, Portuguese style!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Aljezur
Distance: 4 hours, 14 km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 Departure
The time has come to say tchau! A private transfer will take you from your accommodations in Aljezur to the airport in either Lisbon or Faro, depending on your flight.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Vicentina Coast Walking Tour Prices and Dates
This self-guided walking tour of the Vicentina Coast is run as a private tour for your group only and the price depends on the size of your group and your travelling dates.The prices below are per person sharing a double or a triple room:
- Self-guided groups of 2+: from EUR1280
Accommodation on the Vicentina Coast Walking Tour
This tour is based in 3-star hotels and guesthouses. All accommodations on the tour offer comfortable rooms with basic amenities and great locations.
In some cases, accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel.
What’s Included in the Vicentina Coast Walking Tour?
Meals
7 breakfasts are included on this tour. You can add picnic lunches each walking day for €90 and dinners in local restaurants (including ½ bottle of wine) each night for €265.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 7 nights is included.
Transportation during the Tour
Transportation for yourself and your luggage is included to and from the airport.
Also Included
- Map and book with trail details
- 24/7 phone support
Not included
- Flights to and from Portugal
- Visas if required
- Travel insurance
- Tourist taxes if applicable
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Fees not mentioned as included
Optional Extras
- Additional activities and excursions unless otherwise mentioned as included
- Single room supplements
- Upgrade meal board:
- Picnic lunches package
- Dinners package
- Any additional nights before or after the tour
- How hard is the Vicentina Coast Walking Tour?
- Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?
- Are meals included on the Vicentina Coast Walking Tour?
- Do I need insurance?
- How do I get to Porto Covo to start this tour?
- Where does the Vicentina Coast Walking Tour end?
- Do I need special vaccines to travel to Portugal?
- Are there any travel restrictions for Portugal?
- When is the best time to travel to Portugal for this tour?
We rate this tour a challenging 3/5. You should be comfortable walking for up to 7 hours in a day, covering distances of up to 22 km. Those who are generally fit and comfortable walking these distances will be able to get the most out of the tour.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
7 breakfasts are included on this tour. You can add picnic lunches each walking day and dinners in local restaurants for an additional fee.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.
You can fly into Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), where you will be transferred to your accommodations in Porto Covo.
The tour ends in Aljezur where you will be transferred to either Lisbon Airport (LIS), or Faro Airport (FAO) depending on where your flight departs from.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
The best time to travel to Portugal for this tour is April-May and September-October, when the weather tends to be warm and sunny but not too hot.
Customer Ratings
Algarve Nature Tours is a boutique tour operator that has welcomed visitors to Portugal since 1988. With top-notch experience and personalized service, Algarve Nature Tours aims to offer the best nature tours in the country. Choose your own dates and adventure or let them suggest an itinerary suited to your wishes.
