Best of the Rota Vicentina
Best of the Rota Vicentina
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This will be the best opportunity to discover the southeast of Portugal. The Rota Vicentina will delight you with its beautiful landscapes of desert beaches, wild flowers, artisanal fishing ports and small, quiet villages. You will travel on the best walking route from the Alentejo region to Cabo Sao Vicente, the most southeasterly point in Europe.
- You will walk on pristine sandy golden beaches.
- You will observe the birds that nest on the cliffs.
- You can enjoy traditional grilled fish accompanied by a glass of "vinho".
- You will delight in the fascinating beaches and get to know authentic Portuguese villages.
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Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Porto Covo
From Lisbon Airport it will take two and a half hours to get to Porto Covo by bus. This is a small village,ideal to start this tour, because it will enchant you with its beautiful beaches and its characteristic white houses.
That day you can tour the square or, if you have time, enjoy a boat ride to Ilha do Pessegueiro and get to know the Roman ruins and its fort from the 15th century.
Vila Nova de Milfontes: in case there is no availability in Porto Covo, we will make the necessary arrangements for you to be transferred to Vila Nova de Milfontes and, the next day, returned to Porto Covo to start your route.
That day you can tour the square or, if you have time, enjoy a boat ride to Ilha do Pessegueiro and get to know the Roman ruins and its fort from the 15th century.
Vila Nova de Milfontes: in case there is no availability in Porto Covo, we will make the necessary arrangements for you to be transferred to Vila Nova de Milfontes and, the next day, returned to Porto Covo to start your route.
Overnight in Porto Covo
Porto Covo Hotel
This eco-friendly hotel is located in the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park and offers cosy rooms equipped with air conditioning, television, private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. It also has a bar and a beautiful outdoor area.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Porto Covo to Vila Nova de Milfontes 12,1 miles | 19,5 km
This will be a day to delight you with the most diverse and beautiful landscapes. On your way from Aivados to Farol, you'll tour beaches, deserted coves and golden sand dunes. If you want you can take off your boots to feel the sand between your toes, while gazing at the fantastic coastline.
Arriving in Vila Nova de Milfontes, you can discover its history, in the fortress that dates back to the 17th century, or stroll through its streets where pleasant cafes and restaurants abound.
Ascent: 244m (800ft) / Descent: 250m (820ft)
Arriving in Vila Nova de Milfontes, you can discover its history, in the fortress that dates back to the 17th century, or stroll through its streets where pleasant cafes and restaurants abound.
Ascent: 244m (800ft) / Descent: 250m (820ft)
Overnight in Vila Nova de Milfontes
Villa Eira
It is located in a walled garden in the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, near the Mira River and Vila Nova de Milfontes beach. Its bright rooms have heating, television, private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Vila Nova de Milfontes to Almograve 9,5 miles | 15,3 km
On the way, you will encounter a lot of vegetation and wildflowers, as well as a wide variety of bird species.
You will walk along the banks of the River Mira while contemplating the incredible views. If you wish, you can take a boat on your own account to shorten the route.
It will be a quiet day, as this stretch of coastline is quite undeveloped and there is not much human presence. Later, you will arrive at Almograve, where you can enjoy the beach, the reddish dunes and the rocky landscape along the coast.
Ascent: 193m (800ft) / Descent: 187m (614ft)
You will walk along the banks of the River Mira while contemplating the incredible views. If you wish, you can take a boat on your own account to shorten the route.
It will be a quiet day, as this stretch of coastline is quite undeveloped and there is not much human presence. Later, you will arrive at Almograve, where you can enjoy the beach, the reddish dunes and the rocky landscape along the coast.
Ascent: 193m (800ft) / Descent: 187m (614ft)
Overnight in Almograve
Monte Novo da Longueira
This country house has a pleasant garden where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast. It offers rooms with flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - Almograve to Zambujeira do Mar 13,6 miles | 22 km
Today's walk will be unforgettable because, besides the beautiful landscape, you will pass the only place in the world where white storks nest. You will tour the ochre-coloured sand dunes, cliffs where more than twenty species of birds live and you will then reach a pine forest.
We recommend stopping at Cape Sardao Lighthouse, a perfect spot to watch anglers while enjoying a picnic.
If you want to rest earlier, you can go to the hotel, or if you prefer you can head to Entrada da Barca, a natural port surrounded by wooden cabins. Finally, you will arrive in Zambujeira do Mar, a small coastal town.
Ascent: 389m (1,276ft) / Descent: 389m (1,276ft)
We recommend stopping at Cape Sardao Lighthouse, a perfect spot to watch anglers while enjoying a picnic.
If you want to rest earlier, you can go to the hotel, or if you prefer you can head to Entrada da Barca, a natural port surrounded by wooden cabins. Finally, you will arrive in Zambujeira do Mar, a small coastal town.
Ascent: 389m (1,276ft) / Descent: 389m (1,276ft)
Overnight in Zambujeira do Mar
Rosa dos Vento
This cosy Andalusian-style hotel is located near the beach and the city centre. Its modern and spacious rooms feature a television, private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Zambujeira do Mar to Odeceixe 11,3 miles | 18,3 km
Today you can enjoy one of the best views on the entire fishermen's trail. You will go down narrow paths by the cliff and then pass several beaches, a fishing port and the fascinating Ponta em Branco cliff.
There you can see the beach in Odeceixe, the peaks of the Foia Mountains and in the background the beautiful village of Monchique.
Then you can stop at the dazzling blue and white windmill, located at the peak of Odeceixe, and contemplate the pretty white village.
Ascent: 395m (1,295ft) / Descent: 425m (1,394ft)
There you can see the beach in Odeceixe, the peaks of the Foia Mountains and in the background the beautiful village of Monchique.
Then you can stop at the dazzling blue and white windmill, located at the peak of Odeceixe, and contemplate the pretty white village.
Ascent: 395m (1,295ft) / Descent: 425m (1,394ft)
Overnight in Odeceixe
Casas do Moinho
This restored accommodation is located near beaches. It offers fully equipped rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It also has a beautiful, spacious garden area.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Odeceixe to Aljezur 14 miles | 23 km
To reach the beach at Odeceixe, you will cross quiet fishermen trails. Along the way, at the mouth of the River Seixe and before reaching the Odeceixe sand dunes, you will be able to see white and grey herons.
Afterwards, you will start a tour of the highlands and the pleasant pine and eucalyptus forests, passing through the pretty village of Rogil.
In Aljezur you can relax and enjoy a plate of fresh seafood.
Ascent: 331m (1,085ft) / Descent: 324m (1,063ft)
Afterwards, you will start a tour of the highlands and the pleasant pine and eucalyptus forests, passing through the pretty village of Rogil.
In Aljezur you can relax and enjoy a plate of fresh seafood.
Ascent: 331m (1,085ft) / Descent: 324m (1,063ft)
Overnight in Aljezur
Vicentina Hotel
This modern and pleasant hotel is located within the Costa Vicentina Natural Park. It offers rooms with flat-screen televisions, private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It also has a restaurant, bar, terrace and garden.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - Aljezur to Arrifana 11 miles | 18 km
Before starting a new day, you can visit Aljezur Castle, one of the seven castles represented on the shield of the Portuguese flag. This fortress was built by the Arabs in the 10th century, and is located on top of a hill, from which you can have a wonderful view of the valley, rich in flora and fauna.
Afterwards, you will start walking towards Ponta da Atalaia and, during the tour, you will discover spectacular beaches. Later you will walk through the sand dunes, where you can also find a wide variety of vegetationand ruins dating back to prehistoric times.
In one part of the way, you will have the opportunity to watch the fishermen grow goose barnacles, a regional delicacy that you should definitely try.
The walk will end in Arrifana, a sandy, rugged and totally wild bay that will enchant you with its beauty.
Aljezur: in case there is no availability in Arrifana, we will make the necessary arrangements for you to have you transferred to Aljezur and, the next day, returned to Arrifana to start your route.
Ascent: 464m (1,522ft) / Descent: 431m (1,414ft)
Afterwards, you will start walking towards Ponta da Atalaia and, during the tour, you will discover spectacular beaches. Later you will walk through the sand dunes, where you can also find a wide variety of vegetationand ruins dating back to prehistoric times.
In one part of the way, you will have the opportunity to watch the fishermen grow goose barnacles, a regional delicacy that you should definitely try.
The walk will end in Arrifana, a sandy, rugged and totally wild bay that will enchant you with its beauty.
Aljezur: in case there is no availability in Arrifana, we will make the necessary arrangements for you to have you transferred to Aljezur and, the next day, returned to Arrifana to start your route.
Ascent: 464m (1,522ft) / Descent: 431m (1,414ft)
Overnight in Arrifana
Arrifana Destination Boutique
This boutique hotel has a beautiful outdoor area where you can relax and enjoy yourself. In addition to fully equipped rooms, it also has a restaurant, bar and free Wi-Fi.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Arrifana to Carrapateira 12,7 miles | 20,5 km
The variety of landscapes this day will delight you. You will leave Arrifana walking between the sea and the mountains. You'll walk along uneven cliff paths to reach a wooded area, where, during the spring, the meadows are full of wild flowers.
The first stop will be in Bordeira, a small village where time seems to have stopped: you only breathe peace and rural traditions such as goat grazing continue as they always have.
Then, on your way to Carrapateira, you can enjoy the enchanting view of the coast again.
Ascent: 640m (2,099ft) / Descent: 663m (2,175ft)
The first stop will be in Bordeira, a small village where time seems to have stopped: you only breathe peace and rural traditions such as goat grazing continue as they always have.
Then, on your way to Carrapateira, you can enjoy the enchanting view of the coast again.
Ascent: 640m (2,099ft) / Descent: 663m (2,175ft)
Overnight in Carrapateira
Casa Fajara Rustic Boutique Hotel
This is the perfect hotel to relax in after a day of walking. It is located on spacious grounds and has a bar. Its cosy rooms have private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 9 - Enjoy your day in Carrapateira 6 miles | 10 km
The coast today will be the main attraction. You can enjoy a pleasant stroll through Pontal da Carrapateira, an unforgettable tour of the sandy beaches of Bordeira and Amado, passing close to artisan fishermen. This will be the ideal setting to enjoy a good lunch.
Ascent: 165m (541ft) / Descent: 165m (541ft)
Ascent: 165m (541ft) / Descent: 165m (541ft)
Overnight in Carrapateira
Casa Fajara Rustic Boutique Hotel
This is the perfect hotel to relax in after a day of walking. It is located on spacious grounds and has a bar. Its cosy rooms have private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 10 - Pedralva to Vila do Bispo 11 miles | 17,8 km
After an inclusive 10-minute transfer, you will arrive in Pedralva, a small village that looks like a picture postcard of whitewashed houses with colourfully painted doors, contrasting with the white walls.
The walk will start in a quiet forest, following through scented orchards. If you travel in spring, this will be the ideal place to delight in the wide variety of wild flowers such as yellow daffodils, purple orchards, hyacinths and forget-me-nots.
Leaving the forest behind, you will find the coast again and head towards Praia da Barriga, a charming and wide beach, located in the heart of the Sudoeste Alentejano and Costa Vicentina National Park
Later, you will again go back into the forest, then arrive in Vila do Bispo.
Ascent: 274m (899ft) / Descent: 231m (758ft)
The walk will start in a quiet forest, following through scented orchards. If you travel in spring, this will be the ideal place to delight in the wide variety of wild flowers such as yellow daffodils, purple orchards, hyacinths and forget-me-nots.
Leaving the forest behind, you will find the coast again and head towards Praia da Barriga, a charming and wide beach, located in the heart of the Sudoeste Alentejano and Costa Vicentina National Park
Later, you will again go back into the forest, then arrive in Vila do Bispo.
Ascent: 274m (899ft) / Descent: 231m (758ft)
Overnight in Vila do Bispo
Pure Flor de Esteva
Located in the centre of Vila do Bispo, it offers comfortable, well-equipped rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It also has an outdoor terrace, ideal for relaxing and getting in touch with nature.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 11 - Vila do Bispo to Sagres 8,3 miles | 13,4 km
As you head to Cabo Sao Vicente, the most south-westerly point in Europe, you'll start to say goodbye to this wonderful tour of the Rota Vicentina.
On Telheiro Beach you will have a charming view of the wild coast while enjoying the pleasant sound of the waves and, if you travel in autumn, you will be able to see seabirds migrating there, such as black kites, black storks, booted eagles and sparrow hawks.
But that's not all, when you reach Cabo Sao Vicente and its emblematic lighthouse, you will enjoy an incomparable experience. The scenery will be inspiring: Imagine the pilgrims reaching St. Vincent's tomb.
After enjoying the magical views of the Cape one last time, you will have an inclusive transfer to your hotel in the small and thriving seaside town of Sagres.
Ascent: 140m (459ft) / Descent: 207m (679ft)
On Telheiro Beach you will have a charming view of the wild coast while enjoying the pleasant sound of the waves and, if you travel in autumn, you will be able to see seabirds migrating there, such as black kites, black storks, booted eagles and sparrow hawks.
But that's not all, when you reach Cabo Sao Vicente and its emblematic lighthouse, you will enjoy an incomparable experience. The scenery will be inspiring: Imagine the pilgrims reaching St. Vincent's tomb.
After enjoying the magical views of the Cape one last time, you will have an inclusive transfer to your hotel in the small and thriving seaside town of Sagres.
Ascent: 140m (459ft) / Descent: 207m (679ft)
Overnight in Sagres
Mareta View
Located in the centre of Sagres and close to Mareta Beach, it has a natural garden ideal for relaxing after a day of walking. It also has comfortable rooms with television, private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 12 - Sagres
If you have more days, we recommend staying a little more in Sagres to relax and enjoy the beach. If you already need to return, you will need to head to Faro Airport to catch a flight back to your home city.
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Services
Included
- Accommodation in en suite rooms in charming hotels
- Daily Breakfasts
- Luggage transfers between accommodations
- Transfers as specified in the itinerary
- Information dossier with maps and routes
- 24-hour telephone support
- Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
- Taxes
Extras
- Travel insurance
- Cancellation insurance
- Additional nights
Accomodation
General information
The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available.
Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip.
The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip.
We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.
The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.
Room types
It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms.
All rooms have private bathrooms.
Travel & Transfers
The best way to get to Porto Covo is to take a plane to Lisbon.
From the bus station "Sete Rios" or "Oriente" in Lisbon, you can take the bus and get off at the bus stop "Porto Covo". Several buses operated by Rede Expressos and FlixBus depart throughout the day.
At the end of your journey in Sagres, we recommend that you take bus 47 from Sagres to Lagos, as all buses from Lagos return to Lisbon and Faro.
From the bus station "Sete Rios" or "Oriente" in Lisbon, you can take the bus and get off at the bus stop "Porto Covo". Several buses operated by Rede Expressos and FlixBus depart throughout the day.
At the end of your journey in Sagres, we recommend that you take bus 47 from Sagres to Lagos, as all buses from Lagos return to Lisbon and Faro.
FAQs
Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
Absolutely! Each traveller has included 1 piece of luggage that we will transfer between your accommodations. It's important that this piece of luggage meets the following criterias:
- Maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg).
- Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
- Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
- Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
What should my physical preparation be?
This route has a moderate level of difficulty, so the walks are designed to have a daily duration of between 3 and 7 hours over undulating terrain, and usually on sand, which makes the walk, in some parts, a little more demanding.
The routes have a distance of between 17 and 20 km (10.5 and 12.5 miles), with some ascents and descents and sometimes on trails along cliffs with very steep slopes. For this reason, we do not recommend this trip to people suffering from vertigo.
It should also be noted that on the first day, from Porto Covo to Vila Nova de Milfontes, and the third, to Zambujeira do Mar, are considered difficult journeys due to their length, because you walk on the sand, and the energy consumption demanded of you.
We recommend that less experienced walkers book additional nights to have some rest days, particularly in Odeceixe and Carrapateira.
What kind of equipment do I need?
The detailed information will be sent to you once you make the reservation. In it you will find a specific list of items, among which are good boots or walking shoes, waterproof clothing and a backpack, but we recommend packing everything you need, such as clothes suitable for rain, a hat for the sun and sunscreen.
What if I can't complete one of the stages?
You can use public transport or local taxis to continue to the next stop.
How far in advance should I book?
We suggest you book once you have decided your plans, as this is a very popular region and accommodation reservations should be made as soon as possible. However, we will do our best to fit in with your plans.
What is the best time of year to travel?
The hike is available from March to June and from September to November. Any time during this period is ideal for doing the trip. In July and August, we do not offer this tour due to the high summer temperatures.
Do I need medical insurance cover?
Yes, this is a requirement when booking with us. It's important that this insurance covers your activities, emergency evacuation, and hospital care.
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