Portugal's Wild Atlantic Coast
Portugal's Wild Atlantic Coast
$2190
Portugal's Wild Atlantic Coast
8 Days Starting and ending in Faro, Portugal
Visiting: Porto Covo, Vila Nova de Milfontes, Sagres, Azenha do Mar, Cape St Vincent, Faro
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 16
Age range:
12-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Offering 70 miles of wild Atlantic coastline and inland vistas of deep valleys, mountain ridges and forests of pine and oak, this undiscovered region is perfect for nature lovers. Southwest Portugal’s Rota Vicentina’s long distance coastal path starts in Santiago do Cacem and finishes at Cape of St. Vincent, once known as the edge of the world. The trails support diverse habitats, alive with endemic plant life and numerous animal and bird species. The Rota Vicentina is split into two routes, the Fisherman’s Trail and the Historical Way, and you'll discover both! Spend a week exploring and discovering the unspoilt and wild southwest coast of Portugal.
Follow the highlights and carefully chosen sections of the path. The Historical Way is the longer of the two paths and takes you between villages, through Portugal’s agricultural heartland, past forests of cork and oak, through flower filled meadows and between green valleys. By comparison, the coastal Fisherman’s Trail, which forms most of the walking trails on your holiday, winds its way along the dramatic coastline, above the rolling Atlantic waves offering cooling breezes, superb seascape views and majestic cliffs.
Springtime graces the landscape with flower-filled meadows, wild oregano, and asparagus that adorn the banks of crystal-clear rivers weaving through the pristine western Portuguese scenery. Fields of sweet potatoes, maize, and tomatoes accompany us as we unveil the secrets of this lesser-known region of Portugal. Throughout your journey, you'll have ample opportunities to explore quaint villages, deserted beaches, and marvel at the mesmerizing crash of the Atlantic waves.
The western coast of Portugal is wild, and the small villages are secluded, a stark contrast to the bustling Algarve. Accommodation options in these remote villages can be limited and modest, making it a unique opportunity to explore this remote Portuguese route as a group. You'll stay in a handpicked hotel in Porto Covo, a small fishing village along the Alentejo coast and the initial stop for many Rota Vicentina hikers. Your second centre is Aljezur, a small market town in the Algarve. During the winter months, many hotels close for the winter, so you'll stay in Sagres for your second centre, a remote town located on the western tip of Algarve. Please check individual dates for more information.
If you are interested in this holiday, why not extend your stay with our 14 night holiday Portugal's Algarve Way & Wild Coast.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Welcome to Portugal
Location: Porto Covo
Accommodation Name: Porto Covo Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
After arriving into Faro airport, transfer by coach to your hotel in Porto Covo.
Day 2 : Porto Covo to Vila Nova de Milfontes
Location: Porto Covo
Accommodation Name: Porto Covo Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Your itinerary is expected to follow the daily schedule outlined below but please bear in mind that the order of the days may be amended, or walks substituted, due to weather conditions, attraction opening times, public transport timetables or changes beyond our control.
Walks
Distance: 11 miles
Ascent: 200
Descent: 200
The Fisherman’s Trail takes you from Porto Covo along vast sand dunes, past the small island of Ilha do Pessegueiro located a couple of hundred metres off the beach. In the distance catch a glimpse of the Fort of Pessegueiro, built on the island. This 16th century fort was built to protect the Portuguese coastline. Pass the wide and wild beaches of Aivados and Malhao. In spring, the plant life in this region of Portugal blooms, illuminating the coastline with a kaleidoscope of colours. Some of the plant species are indigenous to this coastline. Your walk will take you past sheltered sandy beaches, alongside transparent blue waters and along dramatic cliffs towards Vila Nova de Milfontes. miles
Day 3 : Cercal to Porto Covo
Location: Porto Covo
Accommodation Name: Porto Covo Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Walks
Distance: 10 miles
The Historical Way guides you through serene and peaceful landscapes surrounded by small farms as far as the eye can see. The scenery is painted with orchards teeming with olive, orange, and lemon trees, creating a vibrant tapestry, and fields adorned with a variety of fruits and vegetables. The air is infused with the sweet fragrance of wild aromatic herbs, including lavender, thyme, and rosemary, creating an olfactory symphony. Start in Cercal do Alentejo, a tranquil village almost untouched by tourism and walk through the beautiful landscape to Porto Covo. miles
Day 4 : Vila Nova de Milfontes to Almograve
Location: Vila Nova de Milfontes
Accommodation Name: Porto Covo Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Walks
Distance: 8 miles
Ascent: 90
Descent: 110
Begin your walk a little to the south of Vila Nova de Milfontes, a peaceful fishing village, located along the Alentejo coast on the mouth of the River Mira. The surrounding hills attract a variety of bird species and the marshes alongside the rivers are home to different aquatic species and mammals. Trace the trail leading to Almograve, a traditional Portuguese village embraced by rugged cliffs, breathtaking sand dunes, and the untamed fury of the Atlantic waves. This scenic journey promises a harmonious blend of coastal charm and the rich biodiversity that graces the Alentejo region. miles
Day 5 : Odemira
Location: Sagres
Accommodation Name: Pousada de Sagres
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Walks
Distance: 10.3 miles
Ascent: 360
Descent: 210
Follow gently undulating tracks with the tranquil Mira River for company as you walk between the azure sea and rolling green hills. Be surrounded by vibrant colours and walk amongst impressive forests of diverse species, including ash and willow. The riverbanks and forests are decorated with a sea of scented plants, some medicinal such as Genista tridentata, Oregano and Wild Asparagus. Cross crystal clear streams and hope to see otters, birds and dragonflies.
Today you move to your final centre of Sagres. miles
Day 6 : Odeceixe
Location: Azenha do Mar
Accommodation Name: Pousada de Sagres
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Walks
Distance: 9.5 miles
Ascent: 170
Descent: 170
This wonderful coastal walk starts in a colourful sea-side village and passes many quiet secluded golden beaches on the way to the natural fishing harbour of Azenha do Mar. Outstanding panoramic views are our companions today, particularly over Odeceixe beach. Wetlands filled with wildlife decorate the landscape as the Fisherman’s Trail and Historic Way collide. miles
Day 7 : Vila do Bispo to Cape St Vincent
Location: Cape St Vincent
Accommodation Name: Pousada de Sagres
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Walks
Distance: 8.6 miles
Ascent: 150
Descent: 170
Today explore the final section of the Rota Vicentina. Vila de Bispo is a quintessential village in the Algarve, with narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses with colourful exterior decor and a peaceful atmosphere. It is the last town before reaching Cape St Vincent, the most south westerly point of Europe. Dramatic coastal scenery stretches before us on our trail. 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. It was here that Prince Henry the Navigator established his fortress and began the “age of discoveries” sending ships to explore the world. This land is associated with an abundance of explorer’s history and pirate stories. You may even be lucky enough to spot migratory birds nesting in the rugged cliffs. miles
Day 8 : Final day
Location: Faro
Meals Included: Breakfast
We bid farewell to Portugal's undisturbed southwest and the Rota Vicentina. We transfer back to Faro airport for our return flight to the UK.
What's Included
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Meals
Breakfast and dinner are included daily during the tour.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at Porto Covo Hotel and Pousada de Sagres.
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Transfers
Transfer from Faro airport to the hotel in Porto Covo and back to Faro airport at the end of the tour.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Flights to and from Faro airport are not included.
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Lunch
Lunch is not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all participants.
Mode of Transport
Upon arrival at Faro airport, transfer by coach to your hotel in Porto Covo. The tour includes various walking routes, with transfers to different starting points, and concludes with a return transfer to Faro airport for your departure.Accommodation
Stay at the Porto Covo Hotel, offering comfortable accommodations in the charming village of Porto Covo. Later in the tour, enjoy the amenities of Pousada de Sagres, a hotel located in the picturesque town of Sagres, providing a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration.Check out our Q&As
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What type of landscapes can I expect to see on this tour?
You will experience a variety of landscapes including vast sand dunes, small islands, wide beaches, dramatic cliffs, serene farmlands, vibrant orchards, and peaceful fishing villages. The tour also features coastal trails with panoramic views, wetlands filled with wildlife, and intensely dramatic cliffs at Cape St Vincent.
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Are there any opt-out points during the walks?
Yes, there are opt-out points on Day 2 at 2.5 miles and 5.5 miles, on Day 5 at 5 miles, and on Day 6 at 6.5 miles. There are no opt-out points on Days 3, 4, and 7.
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What kind of wildlife might I see during the tour?
You may encounter a variety of wildlife including bird species, aquatic species, mammals, otters, dragonflies, and migratory birds nesting in the cliffs. The wetlands and riverbanks are also home to diverse plant species, some of which are medicinal.
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What historical sites are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the Fort of Pessegueiro, a 16th-century fort built to protect the Portuguese coastline. Additionally, you will explore the area around Cape St Vincent, known for its historical significance as the starting point for many explorers during the 'age of discoveries'.
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What is the significance of Cape St Vincent on this tour?
Cape St Vincent is the most southwesterly point of Europe and was historically significant as the last sight of Europe for explorers setting out on voyages. It is associated with explorer's history and pirate stories, and was where Prince Henry the Navigator established his fortress.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Once you have paid your deposit, and all of the elements of your holiday are confirmed, we will provide a Confirmation of Booking and Invoice Pack. The confirmation of booking confirms your holiday arrangements, any special requests, and the balance due date. Please take the time to check this document carefully and please let us know immediately if there are any inaccuracies. As part of this pack, you’ll also receive a Holiday Information Sheet with more detail about your holiday. We will send reminder(s) for any missing details, which are important for your booking, so please update us as soon as you can. A MONTH BEFORE DEPARTURE Now’s the time to really start looking forward to your holiday, and 3-4 weeks before departure we’ll send out any updated information relating to your trip, including any local information. If you have any questions regarding your holiday arrangements, please get in touch with us. THREE WEEKS BEFORE DEPARTURE We aim to send out your Travel Documents and joining instructions 3 weeks before departure, please take the time to read through these documents and note your up-to-date flight schedules (if/where relevant), check-in times, and luggage allowance.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You may be able to change your dates. Please refer to Section 5 of our Booking Conditions for more details or message us for assistance. Note that charges and limitations may apply.
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Do I need to have travel insurance?
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover. The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked. Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number. In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term. If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by Ramble Worldwide staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
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Low Deposit
Ramble Worldwide requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of ramble worldwide charges.
Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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