Hike the Rota Vicentina in Portugal
From CAD $2020 Was CAD $2885
Guarantee
Kleine Gruppe
Demanding
Rating
(20 reviews)
Lace up your boots and set off along Portugal’s Rota Vicentina – arguably one of Europe’s most scenic hiking trails. A world away from the bustle of Lisbon, you’ll hike along ancient coastal paths, passing through the sunny Alentejo and Algarve regions. Look for burrows and footprints of Egyptian mongooses, beech martens and otters in the sand dunes along the ancient Fisherman's Trail. Learn about the region’s distinct biodiversity from your local leader, relax on the beautiful beaches and feast on fresh seafood in Almograve – the beauty of this corner of Portugal will stay stamped on your passport and your memory.
Highlights
- Follow the most scenic section of the coastal Fisherman’s Trail, taking in panoramic views of Portugal’s cliffs, beaches and ocean as you walk. At the end of each day’s hike, maybe unwind on the sandy shore or take a quick dip.
- Delight in Portugal’s bountiful coastline and indulge in a fresh seafood lunch in the village of Almograve with ingredients from the local fish market.
- Walk to Capela de Nossa Senhora do Mar – a small chapel overlooking the ocean – and watch the sunset over the region, maybe with a homemade picnic.
- Look for burrows and footprints of Egyptian mongooses, beech martens and otters in the sand dunes as you walk along the ancient trail in the southwest of Portugal.
- Hike to Cabo de Sao Vicente – mainland Europe’s southwestern most point. Hear stories about the area’s maritime and local history from your local leader.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3280
Tour Type: Kleine Gruppe
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: On foot,Private vehicle,Boat
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Walking & Trekking
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: ZMXV
Starts: Lisbon, Portugal
Finishes: Sagres, Portugal
Duration: 7 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Demanding
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (6), Lunch (1), Dinner (1)Accommodation: Hotel (3 nights),Guesthouse (3 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2020 ($289 /day)
Itinerary
Bem-vindo! Welcome to Portugal. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight in Lisbon, Portugal’s lively capital city. If you arrive early, maybe stroll through the winding alleyways of the Alfama neighbourhood or visit Sao Jorge Castle. After your meeting, maybe head out with your leader and group to get to know each other over dinner in a local restaurant. Then, maybe continue with a post-dinner walk around the city and see the town come to life in the evenings.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Leave Lisbon behind and drive towards the start of the ancient Fisherman's Trail in the southwest of Portugal, made up various hiking tracks down through Alentejo and the Algarve. Jump out of your vehicle in the coastal parish of Malhao and lace up your boots for your first day of walking. Making the most of your seaside setting, most of today’s walk is along sandy sweeps of beach, crossing the dunes of Aivados and Malhao. Each beach you pass offers something different, from freshwater springs to sharp cliffs and hidden coves. As you walk, your leader will teach you about the hardy plants that live along the coast, defying the odds to thrive against a landscape of poor soil, salty air and hot sun. Today’s walk wraps up in Vila Nova de Milfontes, where you may like to cool off with a refreshing dip in the ocean.
Included Activities:
- Malhao to Vila Nova de Milfontes guided walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Start the day with a boat ride from the mouth of the Mira River to Praia das Furnas, where you’ll disembark and begin your walk. On your journey to Almograve, follow the coast and pass by marshes that serve as breeding grounds for many species of fish. Keep an eye out for small stone-age quarries tucked into the sand dunes, and you may pass a friendly local fisherman or two. Later, arrive in Almograve. From here, head to a local restaurant with a menu brimming with fresh seafood, brought in from the fish market up the road – maybe tuck into a tasty meal of shrimp, clams, hake or whelk.
Included Activities:
- Vila Nova de Milfontes to Almograve guided walk
- Boat ride through Mira River
- Typical seafood lunch in Almograve
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Rise bright and early to hit the trails. Starting in Almograve you’ll hike to Zambujeira do Mar. Walk past high, jagged cliffs which serve as the nesting place of over twenty bird species – look out for peregrine falcons, rock doves, jackdaws and kestrels. The area’s layered geological history will become apparent as you pass red sands and oxidised sandstone from previous tropical climates, and remains of cold climate animals from a cooler past. Later in the day, take a short walk to Capela de Nossa Senhora do Mar – a little chapel overlooking the sea. Maybe pack a homemade picnic and watch the sun go down from this beautiful spot.
Included Activities:
- Almograve to Zambujeira do Mar guided walk
- Capela de Nossa Senhora do Mar evening walk
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy a slower start to the day before heading off for another fantastic walk, bursting with more stunning coastal scenery. Set off from Zambujeira do Mar and walk along clifftops, past the beaches of Alteirinhos, Carvalhal, Machados and Amalia before arriving at a natural fishing harbour in Azenha do Mar. The sand dunes on this stretch of your walk are alive with activity and home to many mammals – while they are pretty hard to spot, you may be able to see evidence of burrows and footprints. Egyptian mongooses, beech martens, otters, weasels, genets and badgers all call this part of the country home. At the end of today’s hike, maybe relax on the beach or explore the town at your own pace. Later, travel to Rota Vicentina where you’ll spend the night.
Included Activities:
- Zambujeira do Mar to Odeceixe guided walk
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, travel to Vila do Bispo for today’s walk. Set off along the trails to Cabo de Sao Vicente – the southwestern most point of mainland Europe. As you walk, listen to stories of the cape’s maritime, Phoenician and Roman past from your local leader. Skirt along the coast before finishing up in Sagres – a popular spot for surfers. If the name sounds familiar, it may be because of Portugal’s iconic beer that’s named after the town. Tonight, why not grab a cool glass of cerveja and some dinner with your group – a great way to celebrate the final night of your trip.
Included Activities:
- Vila do Bispo to Sagres guided walk
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
With no activities planned for today, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you’d like to extend your trip and continue exploring Portugal, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Rebecca - Traveled, October 2023
We loved our trip on the Rota Vicentina and I can't say enough wonderful things about our guide. The scenery was amazing and the food incredible!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/19/2023
Greg - Traveled, October 2023
The Rota Vicentina hike is an amazing experience, the coastline is beautiful, the scenery, food, and meeting the locals were all amazing. Transport and accommodation spot on, don’t hesitate to visit, we thoroughly enjoyed the hike and company. Our guide was exceptional.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/14/2023
Lesley - Traveled, September 2023
This trip was so enjoyable because Ozzie made it so much fun ! He looked after our every need and explained everything we needed to know and more ! He looked after me when I was afraid of the height and gave me confidence ! He even helped us with food choices and smiled all the time ! I have never walked so far in my life and I only struggled on the long straight road that took us over 20k The scenery was breathtaking and we were lucky with the weather - I would do another trip with him in the future Everyone must experience Ozzies walking holidays he is a credit to Intrepid travel !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/07/2023
Brent - Traveled, October 2023
Great trip, hard going in parts, some amazing scenery, and once you have finished you will have a sense of achievement.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/01/2023
Sandra - Traveled, September 2023
This is a brilliant hike through wonderful scenery along the coast. Ozzie the leader makes it extra special. It's not only a hike, but also a seafood foodie dream. Special thanks to Rosa/Michelle and team at Zambujeria do Mar, you guys rock! ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/30/2023
Sibylle - Traveled, September 2023
I enjoyed the whole trip very much, I was not aware of how unpopulated and beautiful the area was! It was such a pleasant surprise and had a positive & calming effect! Oswaldo - BEST tourguide ever! He has a great knowledge of the area that he is always happy to share with his amazing ability to make everyone smile! He was able to deal with unexpected situations with great competence. Beautiful landscape and delicious seafood! Thank you Oswaldo & Intrepid :-) for an amazing week!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/12/2023
Sonya - Traveled, September 2023
As many have already said, the Rota Vicentina is indeed beautiful! Really, really beautiful. We were hiking the first week of September. The weather was great. We saw very few other hikers. I was worried before going that it might be too difficult for me, but it wasn’t. Walking on sand turns out to be kinder on your knees than pavement. Oswaldo is an enthusiastic and energetic guide; he’s interested in everyone enjoying themselves.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/12/2023
Kimberly - Traveled, May 2023
Beautiful hike and a good guide. Much of the walk is on the loose sand making 20 km feel more like 30. 20°C felt more like 30 because the sand reflected the sun's heat. I recommend doing the hike when the temperatures are well below 20°C. Also, bring a good pair of sunglasses. The glare from the sand starts to hurt after a few hours of walking.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/09/2023
Jenny - Traveled, May 2023
Had an amazing time trekking the Rota Vicentina! So many beautiful beaches and unspoilt coastline! Our trip leader, Oswaldo, was fantastic sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for the trail and looked after us well. Trying the seafood in the local restaurants along the way was a highlight. Highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/10/2023
Charlotte - Traveled, May 2023
Fantastic trip. Definitely worth it. Beautiful scenery. First day had loose sand for most of the walk that day, but it got better. I would say walking poles are not necessary unless you are just generally more comfortable with them. While we stopped in cafes for a coffee or cold drink and to use the bathroom, most days we ate food we brought (something to be aware of as I don't think that is mentioned). Highly recommend this trip :)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/06/2023
Theresa - Traveled, May 2023
Scenic route, breathtaking views, challenging walk, once completed the feeling of achievement is amazing!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/16/2023
Norma - Traveled, May 2023
This was the most beautiful hike along a spectacular natural coast. Our guide, Oswaldo, was excellent and his enthusiasm infectious.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/16/2023
Amy - Traveled, April 2023
I had a wonderful time on this tour. La Rota Vicentina had everything: awesome views, plenty of sun, great food, and an amazing group. Oswaldo is an excellent tour leader. Christina was training with him, and she was very helpful. I’d highly recommend any tour Oswaldo and Christina lead.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/24/2023
Laurie - Traveled, October 2022
Great adventure! Natalia is an amazing guide. The Rota consisted of endless walks along the cliffs of Southern Portugal. Some days the hikes were walking on lots of sand (which I thought would be hard but it was not at all!) Sunshine, fresh air, and walking all day. What could be better! We stayed at quiet, small villages along the way. All accommodations were very clean and simple. The restaurants along the way had amazing seafood. If I was to do this trip again, I would do it in spring as the flowers would be blooming and the landscape would be very colorful. Our travels were early October and it was much warmer than expected. So check the weather and plan accordingly.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/14/2022
Philippa - Traveled, May 2023
This is an amazing hike along the coast of Portugal. The “Rota” is wild and beautiful. The going is tough at times but the scenery and delicious seafood make it all worthwhile. We visited lovely seaside villages and stayed in some great places along the way. If you love the sea this is a must do trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/17/2023
Amber - Traveled, May 2023
This was one of the best hiking trips I’ve been on, the coast is wild and beautiful, the food amazing and our guide Oswaldo was excellent.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/13/2023
Julianna - Traveled, October 2022
This cliffside hiking trip was amazing. It was the perfect amount of challenge. Breathtaking views every day. It was great to say in smaller towns to get a sense for less touristy Portugal living.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/14/2022
Helene - Traveled, September 2022
If you are an ocean lover - go for it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/18/2022
James - Traveled, September 2022
Amazing scenery and delicious food, the Rota Vicentina runs through a beautiful part of the world. Oswaldo was an enthusiastic and great leader, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time on and off the trail.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/09/2022
Claire - Traveled, September 2022
Walking the Rota Vicentina was an amazing experience! The scenery was breathtaking, and it was great to walk from point to point while being in such a beautiful landscape. The walk is very remote and peaceful. The walk was challenging at times, deep sand and long stretches in the sun without shade, but very rewarding and definitely worth the distances. Our guide Oswaldo was amazing! He was full of energy and was excited for us to be experiencing all the wonderful parts of the walk. His restaurant recommendations in the lovely coastal towns were great, and he was so knowledgeable about all the regions we passed through. So happy to have experienced this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/09/2022
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