The West Algarve has a wild Atlantic coast and green landscapes.
During this tour, based in Portimão, you’ll experience hikes along dramatic coastal cliffs, mountain trails, green fields, and historic cities.
An interesting mix of sceneries to discover this part of the Algarve, in the company of a small group of like-minded travellers!
We will walk along “classic” sections of the Algarve coast, known for the crystal clear waters and rugged headlands with rock stacks and arches. This will include the spectacular Ponta da Piedade, just outside Lagos.
Silves, the former Moorish capital of the Algarve, rises clustered around the red-stone walls of one of the Algarve’s most well-preserved castles. Crowning the hill, it dominates the plains and the banks of the River Arade. The Islamic heritage in the city is very striking, due to its importance when it was part of the Al Garb of the Al Andaluz, the powerful caliphate that dominated the Iberian Peninsula for centuries.
We visit local villages where working life continues as it has been for centuries.
We will continue our search for the hidden gems of the Western Algarve with a coastal walk starting on the resort of Luz towards Lagos, with time to visit this pretty historical town.
Heading back inland, we will have a delightful walk through some typical Algarvian villages, allowing us to see the Algarve in its most rural form.
Finally, we will head to the edge of Europe, in Sagres. A walk in the Parque Natural da Costa Vicentina, the most south-westerly point of Europe where there is a chance to appreciate the abundant birdlife on one of the most important migratory routes of Europe.
This escorted walking tour is led by a professional local guide.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival to Faro
Fly to Faro and transfer by road to Portimão, taking approximately 60 minutes.
Day 2 – Estômbar and Silves Walk
This walk ends in Silves, the ancient capital of the Algarve with an iconic castle.
We start in the traditional Algarve village of Estombar. Along the valley of the river Arade we visit the Ecological Park of Fontes, an attractive local beauty spot. Here we find the largest limestone springs in the Algarve. At Sitio das Fontes visitors can see a water mill, learn more about the local flora and fauna while walking along an educational trail.
The route itself enables us to explore this river valley following quiet tracks and paths so we can appreciate the diverse habitats and wildlife.
Day 3 – Seven Valleys Walk
Today we offer a fantastic coastal walk taking in one of the most famous and dramatic sections of the Algarve coastline. Towering cliffs, sea caves and grottos, superb sandy coves and spectacular headlands including the much photographed Benagil domed caves lined with beautiful sandstone strata.
All this can be seen during this stunning walk to finish along Carvoeiro’s renowned elevated boardwalk.
Day 4 – Alvor and Praia da Rocha
Today we have a full programme with a fantastic coastal walk taking in the superb sandy beaches and dramatic headlands between Alvor and Portimão, including the much photographed beach at Praia da Rocha, one of the best in the Algarve.
The rock strata are particularly varied and very colourful, from white limestone to red sandstone. These different rocks support a wide variety of flora and, in spring, there are impressive displays of wild flowers.
Day 5 – Ponte da Piedade and Lagos
We continue our coastal theme with a spectacular walk starting from the small village and resort of Luz.
On this walk we follow a coastal path to Lagos, visiting on the way Ponta da Piedade where the famous sea caves are to be found and visited by many small boats carrying visitors from nearby Lagos.
The walk finishes in Lagos and we will have time to sightsee in this attractive town that was an important Roman settlement called ‘Lacobriga’. A variety of ancient Roman & medieval ruins remains, including the old slave market.
The town centre, which is enclosed within 5th century walls offers a modern and well equipped marina that dominates the sea front and the town is now firmly positioned as a centre for tourists from all over the world.
We have an opt out at Ponte de Piedade allowing people to have a little more time to sightsee in Lagos.
Day 6 – Barão De São João
We head back inland for a walk that takes in the villages of Barão de São João and Barão de São Miguel.
These charming, rural and peaceful villages are characterized by the typical white houses with a coloured border around the windows and doors.
This and the traditional Algarve chimneys demonstrate the many years of Moorish occupancy of the area.
We have an opt out at lunch time allowing people to relax and explore the fascinating village of Barão S. João.
Day 7 – Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente
Our final day on the western Algarve fittingly culminates in Sagres, the most westerly town in the Algarve.
This area of intensely dramatic cliffs, opening onto a vast horizon of sea and sky, was the last sight of Europe for the explorers setting forth on their fearsome voyages beyond the horizon.
We will also visit today the nearby Cabo de S. Vincente whose spectacular cliffs were once believed to be the end of the world.
Day 8 – Departure
At convenient time transfer to the Airport.
Info
Júpiter Algarve Hotel
Júpiter Algarve Hotel
Hotel
Júpiter Algarve Hotel (4****)or similar
Located in Praia da Rocha and just a quick walk from the beach, marina, stores, restaurants, bars and casino, Jupiter Algarve Hotel is the ideal place for all of those looking for a truly memorable stay.
The hotel rooms feature a themed décor inspired by the Ocean, high speed wi-fi, LCD TV (national and international channels + free sportTV), personal hygiene products and 24h room service. The facilities include a SPA and restaurant.
What's included
Accommodation
7 nights in a twin standard room for two pax (4 stars hotel)
Shared ensuite room with a travelling companion of the same sex
Fit for solo travellers – single room with surcharge (limited availability)
Extra nights available on request
Meals
7 buffet breakfasts at the Hotel
Transport
Meet & Greet Airport Transfer to the hotel on the first day, at 12:00h – group transfer
Transfer from the hotel to the Airport on last day, at 12:00h – group transfer
All transports to walks and activities (as outlined) with dedicated driver and vehicle
Additional transfers available on request at an extra cost
Tour Leaders
Dedicated English speaking local tour leader
The tour leader will assist and guide the group throughout the holidays, handle all the arrangements and other needs that might arise, making sure that you don’t have to worry about planning your days and you can enjoy your holiday.
Each evening, your tour leader will discuss the details and program for the following day.
Walks and Activities
Walks according to program
Exclusions
Any services not listed as included
Flights to and from Portugal
Meals, tips/gratuities, baggage or personal insurance (except as outlined)
Admission fees to castles & attractions or events (except as outlined)
Personal expenses
Supplements
Guide services inside monuments
Insurance
You must be adequately insured to join our Guided and Self-Guided holidays. We do not insist that you insure with us but we require that you are adequately insured for the nature of your holiday.
BeCool Travel has partnered with WorldNomads.com to keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com Travel Insurance is designed for independent and adventurous travellers, with coverage for overseas medical expenses, cancellation, baggage, and other expenses.
Please consult our Travel Insurance page, where you’ll be able to get more detailed info about insurance requirements and an immediate quote for your trip.
