Enlightened Adventures
Coastal
Rejuvenation
Fisherman's Trail, Southern Portugal
The Fisherman's Trail, a section of the Rota Vicentina in Portugal, offers a truly spectacular hiking experience along the country's southwestern coast. This multi-day trek winds its way along dramatic cliffs, revealing breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Hikers traverse a diverse range of landscapes, from soft, sandy beaches and undulating dunes to rugged, rocky promontories where waves crash dramatically below. The trail meanders through charming fishing villages, providing opportunities to sample fresh seafood and immerse oneself in the local culture. Well-marked paths guide adventurers through fragrant pine forests and across open plains, always within earshot of the rhythmic crashing of the waves. Each day brings new vistas, hidden coves, and the chance to witness the rich biodiversity of the region.
Beyond the stunning scenery, the Fisherman's Trail provides a unique connection with nature. The ever-changing landscapes offer a sense of discovery, while the relative solitude of the trail allows for introspection and a peaceful escape from the hustle of daily life. The physical challenge of the hike, though manageable for various fitness levels, adds a rewarding sense of accomplishment. Whether tackling the entire route or choosing a shorter section, hikers are treated to an unforgettable journey through one of Europe's most captivating coastal regions. The combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and the invigorating experience of hiking makes the Fisherman's Trail a truly exceptional adventure.
Fisherman's Trail Itineraries
5 Day 4 Night Intro
7 Day 6 Night
Moderate
15 days 14 Nights
Full Trip
5 Day 4 Night Trip
Day 1 Arrival in Porto Covo
Make your way from your entry point in Portugal to Porto Covo using public transportation or private shuttle. Explore this quaint little town and enjoy a delicious meal.
Day 2 Porto Covo to Vila Nova de Milfontes
Leaving Porto Covo, you will start your journey heading south along the Atlantic. This is a slightly strenuous section due to the length and walking primarily in the sand, but you will hardly notice as the scenery is stunning.
20 Km 5-7 Hrs
Day 3 Vila Nova de Milfontes to Almograve
Experience a day of Coastal Rejuvination with breathtaking views of Vila Nova de Milfontes and the Mira River as it flows into the ocean. Be sure to take your time, take a swim and enjoy the easiest day of the journey.
15 Km 4-5 Hrs
Day 4 Almograve to Zambujeira do Mar
Discover a magnificent and diverse area featuring red sand dunes, dramatic cliffs, charming fishing villages, and the extraordinary sight of storks nesting. The day wraps up with the beautiful beach at Zambujeira do Mar.
22 Km 5-7 Hrs
Day 5 Departure
Today you will travel back to Lisbon and make your way home reflecting on the amazing adventure you just completed. You may even begin planning your return to complete the trail!
7 Day 6 Night Trip
Day 1 Arrival in Porto Covo
Make your way from your entry point in Portugal to Porto Covo using public transportation or private shuttle. Explore this quaint little town and enjoy a delicious meal.
Day 2 Porto Covo to Vila Nova de Milfontes
Leaving Porto Covo, you will start your journey heading south along the Atlantic. This is a slightly strenuous section due to the length and walking primarily in the sand, but you will hardly notice as the scenery is stunning.
20 Km 5-7 Hrs
Day 3 Vila Nova de Milfontes to Almograve
Experience a day of Coastal Rejuvination with breathtaking views of Vila Nova de Milfontes and the Mira River as it flows into the ocean. Be sure to take your time, take a swim and enjoy the easiest day of the journey.
15 Km 4-5 Hrs
Day 4 Almograve to Zambujeira do Mar
Discover a magnificent and diverse area featuring red sand dunes, dramatic cliffs, charming fishing villages, and the extraordinary sight of storks nesting. The day wraps up with the beautiful beach at Zambujeira do Mar.
22 Km 5-7 Hrs
Day 5 Zambujeira do Mar to Odeceixe
This fantastic hike offers a diverse experience, spending nearly an entire day along the ocean with breathtaking views. You'll pass by the stunning beaches of Alteirinhos, Carvalhal, Machados, and Amália before taking a brief detour inland. The trail then leads to Azenha do Mar, home to a natural fishing harbor and charming restaurants. Continue along the coast to one of the trail's most spectacular viewpoints: the stunning Odeceixe Beach and river as seen from the impressive cliffs at Ponta em Branco.
19 Km 5-7 Hrs
Day 6 Odeceixe
Today you aren't going anywhere! Relax on the beach, make your way to town or not, but be sure to eat everything! Pecebes, Caricoles, Crab, Dorado, Octopus, Squid the seafood here is to die for. The beach itself is the kind of place you will remember visiting for the rest of your life. I enjoyed it so much I drove back the following year and spent two nights. You're welcome!
Day 7 Departure
Today you will travel back to Lisbon and make your way home reflecting on the amazing adventure you just completed. You may even begin planning your return to complete the trail!
15 Day 14 Night
Entire Route
Day 1 Arrival in Porto Covo
Make your way from your entry point in Portugal to Porto Covo using public transportation or private shuttle. Explore this quaint little town and enjoy a delicious meal.
Day 2 Porto Covo to Vila Nova de Milfontes
Leaving Porto Covo, you will start your journey heading south along the Atlantic. This is a slightly strenuous section due to the length and walking primarily in the sand, but you will hardly notice as the scenery is stunning.
20 Km 5-7 Hrs
Day 3 Vila Nova de Milfontes to Almograve
Experience a day of Coastal Rejuvination with breathtaking views of Vila Nova de Milfontes and the Mira River as it flows into the ocean. Be sure to take your time, take a swim and enjoy the easiest day of the journey.
15 Km 4-5 Hrs
Day 4 Almograve to Zambujeira do Mar
Discover a magnificent and diverse area featuring red sand dunes, dramatic cliffs, charming fishing villages, and the extraordinary sight of storks nesting. The day wraps up with the beautiful beach at Zambujeira do Mar.
22 Km 5-7 Hrs
Day 5 Zambujeira do Mar to Odeceixe
This fantastic hike offers a diverse experience, spending nearly an entire day along the ocean with breathtaking views. You'll pass by the stunning beaches of Alteirinhos, Carvalhal, Machados, and Amália before taking a brief detour inland. The trail then leads to Azenha do Mar, home to a natural fishing harbor and charming restaurants. Continue along the coast to one of the trail's most spectacular viewpoints: the stunning Odeceixe Beach and river as seen from the impressive cliffs at Ponta em Branco.
19 Km 5-7 Hrs
Day 6 Rest Day in Odeceixe
Today you aren't going anywhere! Relax on the beach, make your way to town or not, but be sure to eat everything! Pecebes, Caricoles, Crab, Dorado, Octopus, Squid the seafood here is to die for. The beach itself is the kind of place you will remember visiting for the rest of your life. I enjoyed it so much I drove back the following year and spent two nights. You're welcome!
Day 7 Odeceixe to Aljezur
The hike from Odeceixe to Aljezur along the Fisherman's Trail offers a diverse and new adventure. This portion includes sandy stretches and low cliffs, but as you near Aljezur, the scenery transforms into rolling hills and lush valleys. Aljezur is situated inland with its historic Moorish castle and offers a unique setting after spending days on the coast.
22Km 6-7 Hrs
Day 8 Aljezur to Arrifana
Today's walk showcases the raw beauty of the region, transitioning from the historic town of Aljezur to the dramatic cliffs overlooking the surfers' paradise of Arrifana. While hiking, you are rewarded with panoramic ocean views, secluded coves, and the chance to spot diverse birdlife.
17.1 Km 4-6 Hrs
Day 9 Arrifana to Carrapateira
This stretch showcases the raw beauty of the Algarve's coastline, with dramatic cliffs plunging into the turquoise waters of the Atlantic. You will traverse sandy trails winding through fragrant coastal scrub, offering panoramic views of secluded coves and crashing waves
19.4 Km 5-7 Hrs
Day 10 Carrapateira to Vila do Bispo
Leaving the charming village of Carrapateira, the trail initially winds along high cliffs, affording stunning panoramic views of the coastline. This section is known for its rugged beauty, with dramatic rock formations. The landscape gradually transitions, revealing secluded coves and pristine beaches. The path eventually descends towards Vila do Bispo, a historic town nestled further inland.
15.3 Km 4-6 Hrs
Day 11 Vila do Bispo to Sagres
This stretch of the Fisherman's Trail offers a dramatic introduction to the rugged beauty of Cape St. Vincent, often referred to as "the end of the world." The trail follows the exposed coastline, where windswept cliffs plunge into the churning Atlantic. Hikers are rewarded with expansive ocean views, the iconic Sagres fortress in the distance, and a sense of standing at the edge of continental Europe.
20.2 Km 5-7 Hrs
Day 12 Sagres to Salema
On this section of the Fishermen’s Trail, you rewarded with breathtaking views of the towering limestone cliffs, embraced by the stunning beaches Martinhal, Barranco, Ingrina, Zavial, Furnas, Figueira, and ultimately Salema.
19.5 Km 5-7 Hrs
Day 13 Salema to Luz
This relatively short hike meanders along dramatic cliffs overlooking the turquoise waters of the Atlantic. The trail winds its way through fragrant Mediterranean scrub, occasionally dipping down to secluded coves and sandy beaches perfect for a rest or a quick dip. You should either take your time and enjoy the easy day or trek quickly and spend more time in Luz which has a beautiful beach and many fine restaurants.
11.5 Km 3-5 Hrs
Day 14 Luz to Lagos
This is the final leg of your journey! on this section you will notice a multitude of colors along the cliffs, each with its own beauty in contrast to the water of the ocean. Lagos is the end of the trail, grab a nice cold beer and celebrate your accomplishment.
10.9 Km 3-5 Hrs
Day 15 Departure
The closest International Airport is found in Faro. You can take a bus or train from Lagos. If you have the time I recommend a recoup day in Faro. The beach is beautiful and and worth a stay if you have the time.
