Your journey begins in the charming seaside town of Vila Nova de Milfontes, nestled at the mouth of the River Mira, where it meets the wild Atlantic. After settling into your welcoming accommodation in the historic centre, take time to wander the cobbled lanes, pop into a local deli for tomorrow’s trail snacks, or head across the river by ferry to Praia das Furnas — a quiet beach with golden sand and sweeping views back towards town. Don’t miss Fort São Clemente, a 17th-century landmark built to defend the coastline from pirates, or enjoy a relaxed seafood meal in one of the waterside tavernas as the sun sets over the estuary.

Meals:  Nil

After a short included transfer to Porto Covo, a whitewashed fishing village with a sleepy square and salty sea breeze, your journey on foot begins on the Fishermen’s Trail, a spectacular section of the Rota Vicentina. The route hugs the raw Atlantic coastline, crossing remote sandy coves, dramatic headlands, and the shifting dunes near Ilha do Pessegueiro, named after the small offshore island rich in history and seabird life. Though the sand underfoot adds challenge, the surroundings are a sensory reward — vibrant dune flowers, aromatic pine and rosemary clinging to the cliffs, and the ever-present sound of surf. You’ll pass remote viewpoints and stony outcrops with dramatic drop-offs to the sea below. You can choose to end the day early at Canal (optional taxi not included), or continue on to Vila Nova de Milfontes, where your accommodation awaits. Distance 16.5-19.5km/10-12mi, ascent/descent 75m/250ft

Meals:  B

Begin your day with a short taxi boat crossing (not included) back to Praia das Furnas, where the trail resumes along quiet clifftops and eucalyptus-scented paths. If conditions prevent the boat crossing, a scenic detour over the Mira River bridge offers a rewarding alternative, with lovely views across the saltmarshes and inland reed beds. Today’s trail offers a mix of wild coast and rural backdrop, where once-native vegetation gives way to Acacia forests and farmland — a visible sign of how human influence continues to shape this coastline. Look out for evidence of old quarries etched into the sand, a subtle reminder of the area’s evolving landscape. At day’s end, a taxi (included) will transfer you from Almograve to your accommodation in Zambujeira do Mar, giving you a preview of tomorrow’s route. Distance 12-15km/7-9mi, ascent/descent 75m/250ft

Meals:  B

After breakfast, a transfer will return you to Almograve, where another unforgettable stretch of the Fishermen’s Trail awaits. If you'd prefer a shorter day, opt to begin your walk from Cavaleiro (reducing the distance by 9 km). This section is wild and windswept, taking in a series of stunning cliffs and secluded inlets. The highlight is Cape Sardão, home to a dramatic lighthouse and one of the only places in Europe where white storks nest on sea cliffs — a truly unique sight during nesting season (April to end August). The nearby hamlet of Cavaleiro offers a perfect mid-morning rest stop with a local café serving warm pastries and strong coffee. As you approach Zambujeira do Mar, the landscape softens, revealing tucked-away coves and coastal farmland, with the sound of gulls and crashing waves leading you into this laid-back fishing village. Distance 11-20km/7-13mi, ascent 175m/575ft descent 90m/300ft

Meals:  B

Today’s walk is a Rota Vicentina highlight, combining the drama of Portugal’s rugged southwest coastline with the soft beauty of its rolling dunes. The trail undulates between clifftop paths, quiet coves and flower-draped dunes where hardy coastal plants thrive. Keep an eye on the skies – this section is also home to one of Europe’s rare coastal stork nesting sites, where white storks balance their nests on rocky pinnacles just above the surf. Along the way, you’ll reach Azenha do Mar, a sleepy fishing hamlet perched above the ocean, where a simple but well-loved seafood restaurant makes an ideal lunch stop (opening hours vary during the year). As you approach Odeceixe, one of the Algarve’s most picturesque villages, the landscape shifts to wide river plains, and the view from the clifftop down to Praia de Odeceixe, a broad beach wrapped around the estuary, is truly memorable. Wander into the village centre with its cobbled streets and whitewashed cottages before settling into your accommodation. Distance 18.6km/11.6mi, ascent/descent 220m/722ft

Meals:  B

You have two beautiful route options today, both ending in the medieval town of Aljezur. Inland Option: Walk through peaceful agricultural valleys and cork oak groves as the trail follows a gentle inland route. Quiet farm roads and eucalyptus-lined paths wind through the countryside, gradually opening out to heath-covered hills and fragrant Mediterranean scrub. This is a quieter, contemplative day, perfect for absorbing the rhythm of rural life. The walk ends in Aljezur, an old market town straddling a small river, overlooked by the ruins of a 10th-century Moorish castle. The town is a lovely mix of white houses, artisan shops and history, and your hotel tonight is close to one of the best restaurants in town. Note: To shorten this route, you can take a transfer to the village of Rogil, reducing the walk to approx. 8 km (5 mi). Coastal Alternative: This hybrid route blends stretches of the Fishermen’s Trail with inland tracks, allowing you to enjoy dramatic sea views without the technical hazards of the more exposed coastal cliffs. Start with a short tarmac section (taxi recommended, payable locally), then walk through dunes and pastures toward Praia da Amoreira, where the turquoise river meets the Atlantic. From here, a transfer (not included) will take you into Aljezur for your overnight stay. Distance 18km (option to shorten) or 22km/11.3mi or 13.6mi, ascent/descent 145m/476ft

Meals:  B

From your base in Aljezur, your walk begins with a short climb to the medieval fortress that crowns the edge of the plateau. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy sweeping views across the surrounding valley and out to the wild Atlantic coastline. Crossing the plateau, the trail leads you toward the beach at Monte Clérigo, a peaceful coastal hamlet where whitewashed cottages overlook golden sands. From here, the route curves south toward Arrifana, a seaside village steeped in history. Once inhabited by Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and Arabs, Arrifana holds a unique place in Portugal’s cultural heritage. Nearby lie the ruins of a 12th-century Ribat – a rare Islamic fortress-monastery founded by Ibn Qasî, a Sufi mystic, political leader, and spiritual guide. This is thought to be the only Ribat ever built in Portugal, a place where warrior monks once stood watch over the coastline. While only remnants remain today, the setting is evocative and atmospheric. At Arrifana Beach, your walk ends, and a pre-arranged taxi transfer will return you to your hotel in Aljezur. distance 17km/11mi, ascent 225m/745ft, descent 180m/595ft

Meals:  B

Today’s route offers another choice between inland serenity and coastal drama. After a short transfer to Arrifana, you’ll follow the Rota Vicentina either: Inland via Chabouco and Bordeira (technically easier, longer, well-marked): A peaceful ramble through wild valleys and rolling countryside, rich in endemic flora and traditional farming life. The silence is punctuated by birdsong, and the wide views stretch to the Atlantic in the distance. Coastal Route (more rugged, less marked): If the tides allow, take the breathtaking trail along rocky coves and golden beaches, past wind-sculpted cliffs and crashing surf. You'll follow informal fisherman’s paths to Praia do Amado, known for its remote beauty. Or combine both, starting inland and switching to the coastal path after Chabouco. End in Carrapateira, a low-rise village surrounded by dunes, surf and rural charm. Depending on availability, your accommodation may be in Aldeia da Pedralva, a lovingly restored rural hamlet just a short transfer away. Inland: distance 15.5-22.9km/9.7-14.3mi, ascent 175m-325m/574-1066ft, descent 250-425m/820-1395ft Coastal: distance 18.5km/11.6mi, ascent 200m/656ft, descent 265m/869ft

Meals:  B

After a rewarding week on foot, Carrapateira is the perfect place to slow down and soak in the peaceful rhythm of the Algarve’s west coast. You might choose to spend the day relaxing on the expansive golden sands of Praia da Bordeira, or take in the waves and laid-back vibe at Praia do Amado, a favourite with local surfers. Carrapateira itself is a charming village where fishermen, surfers, and travellers share space with ease, drawn together by the beauty and bounty of the sea. Enjoy a relaxed meal or a cool drink in one of the village cafés and simply watch the world go by. For those with energy to spare, a short circular walk reveals more of the area’s natural beauty, with trails linking two stunning beaches. If you’re keen to explore further, extend your walk to the nearby village of Pedralva, a lovingly restored hamlet with cobbled lanes, a café-restaurant and a local pizzeria — a lovely way to experience authentic rural life. Distance 10km or 22km/6.3mi or 13.7mi, ascent/descent 125m/410ft or 215m/705ft

Meals:  B

As you continue your journey south, the landscape changes once more. Today’s walk combines open farmland, remote valleys and rugged coastline, with the chance to shorten the route by around 3 km by following the Caminho Histórico. The path becomes more exposed in this section, with sweeping views and dramatic cliffs. Local fishermen can often be seen balanced high above the Atlantic, their lines stretching far below. It’s a quieter, wilder stretch of trail that feels far from the everyday. You’ll arrive in the small town of Vila do Bispo, where tiled façades and a simple white church add to its low-key charm. Your hotel tonight offers indoor pool and spa facilities – a welcome chance to relax and unwind before the final stages of your walk. Distance 19km/12mi, ascent 400m/1312ft descent 350m/1155ft

Meals:  B

Today’s walk leads you to Cabo de São Vicente, the most south-westerly point on mainland Europe. The trail begins across wide open plains and wind-shaped headlands, before narrowing to clifftop paths above hidden rocky coves. If it’s a warm day, take a refreshing swim at the remote beach of Praia do Ponto Ruiva – it’s a quiet spot well worth the short detour. At the Cape, a sturdy lighthouse marks the edge of the continent, with sweeping views over the Atlantic. Known for its maritime history and dramatic setting, it’s a memorable waypoint. From here, the trail continues along the coast to Sagres, where you’ll pass the town’s 15th-century fortress before heading to your hotel near the beach and marina at Baleeira. You’ll stay here for two nights, with time to relax and explore the area at your own pace. Distance 20km/12mi, ascent 120m/400ft, descent 200m / 660ft

Meals:  B

This section from Sagres to Salema is one of the more challenging stages of the Fishermen’s Trail, with steady ups and downs as the path winds along the cliffs on stony trails. But the effort is well worth it – this stretch offers some of the Algarve’s most striking coastal scenery, shaped by centuries of wind and sea. You’ll pass a series of small, secluded beaches perfect for a swim, including Martinhal, Barranco, Ingrina, Zavial, Furnas, Figueira and Salema. Along the way, you’ll spot remnants of Roman pottery production on the plains, and the remains of an 18th-century fort at Ponte de Fisga. If the full 20 km feels a bit much, you can arrange for a taxi pick-up in Figueira (after 16 km) instead of walking all the way to Salema. In the afternoon, you’ll return to your hotel in Sagres to rest and recharge. Distance 16-20km/10-12mi, ascent 260 or 345m/860 or 1139ft, descent 230 or 370m / 760 or 1220ft

Meals:  B

This morning, a taxi will return you to Salema or drop you a little further along the coast at Burgau to begin your final stage of the Fishermen’s Trail. The route leads you past dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, with a chance to see some of the Algarve’s most iconic natural features – including the caves and arches near Ponte da Piedade and the golden sands of Praia do Camilo. Keep an eye out for the remains of old coastal forts, built over centuries by Romans, Arabs and Portuguese to defend the coastline from pirate raids. Your journey ends in the lively harbour town of Lagos, set on the banks of the Bensafrim River, where there’s time to explore its historic streets and relaxed waterfront. Distance 17-23km/11-14mi, ascent 330m/ 1090ft, descent 530m / 1750ft

Meals:  B

The trip concludes after breakfast. You can take the local bus to Lagos and change to another bus to Faro, or we can assist with a transfer to Faro Airport (on request, must be pre-booked - please ask for our rates.)

Meals:  B