Walking in the Algarve and Alentejo

Southern Portugal embraces two sizeable and very distinct regions: the Algarve, one of Portugal's most famous destinations and the Alentejo, one of its least well known. We believe that both have a lot to offer walkers in terms of culture, history, nature, country and coastal walks. So, even if you've never heard of the Alentejo or have preconceptions of the Algarve, we are confident that you'll have a really interesting and relaxing time and that you'll want to return.

We currently offer guided and self guided walking holidays and 2-3 hours walks in the Algarve and guided and self guided walking holidays in the Alentejo

An Introduction to the Algarve

Our walks give you the chance to explore the real Algarve, a world away from any large-scale developments or golf courses. Famous for its sun, sea and sardines, this is also a region of tranquil countryside and whitewashed villages, of ancient orchards and wild flowers. We have a variety of walks on offer that are designed to show you the best of the Algarve including its many historical sites, peaceful mountains and woodlands, spectacular coastline, traditional villages and crafts and the rare plants, animals and birds that live in its natural parks.

Walking in the Algarve

Guided Walks
The Very Best of the Algarve
As the name suggests this holiday aims to show you just how beautiful and rewarding walking in the Algarve can be. We start just north of Faro following ancient footpaths through quiet countryside where you'll have the opportunity to watch local craftsmen at work perhaps stripping the trees of the cork bark or producing medronho, a traditional alcoholic drink from the strawberry tree. From there we'll walk along the coast and through the national forest to Lagos and our week ends with 3 days walking deep in the heart of the 'Cape St. Vincent Natural Park', home to a wide variety of rare plants and birds and a spectacular unspoilt coastline. This 7 night walking holiday costs £655.00, $1310.00 or €950 including accommodation, meals, transfers and an experienced walk leader. The next departure dates are April 5 & Oct 18 2008.

contact us for a detailed itinerary or for more information about walking in the Algarve

Self Guided Walks
Cork Oaks to Orange Groves
This walk takes you to two of the most interesting historical towns in the Algarve, starting at Estoi with its Roman ruins and mosaics and finishing in the old Moorish capital of Silves with its famous red sandstone castle. On the way you'll walk through two areas that have been classified and protected because of their rare flora and fauna, past attractive white-washed villages with orchards of olives, almonds, citrus fruits and avocados and enjoy panoramic views across the Algarve. This 7 night walking holiday costs October to March: £445.00, $890.00 or €645 April to June £495.00, $990.00 or €720 including accommodation, 6 picnics and 4 dinners, transfers, luggage transfers and detailed walking maps and notes.

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Mountain Top to Cliff Top
This unusual walking holiday has been designed to show you the sheer diversity and unique flora and fauna of the Algarve. The walking tour starts in the Monchique hills, home to ancient woodland, traditional small farms and craft workshops and spectacular views over the coast. From there the walk winds through national forest and unspoilt countryside to the pretty, seaside town of Lagos where you can watch local fishermen collect clams and oysters. On the final days of the walk, the way winds past Medieval and Roman ruins and wetlands full of birdlife and through the Cape St Vincent Natural Park where you'll join the coastal path to Sagres, the famous 15th century naval base for Prince Henry the Navigator and his explorers. A must if you want to relax in unspoilt countryside and coastline. This 7 night walking holiday costs October to March: £395.00, $790.00 or €573 April to June and September £450.00, $900.00 or €652 including accommodation, 5 picnics and 2 dinners, transfers, luggage transfers and detailed walking maps and notes.

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Half Day Walks in the Algarve
From our base in the Algarve we organise a programme of 2 and 3 hour walks with new walks every month. Everyone is welcome and the small charge includes a donation to charity. Whether you're on holiday or living here its a great way to see more of the region and meet new people. We can also organise private guided walks for you in any part of the Algarve.

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An Introduction to the Alentejo

One of Portugal's least known regions it is a joy for walkers from its ancient hilltop fortresses in the east to its wild, unspoilt coastline in the west. It is a haven for wildlife and you'll find the countryside carpeted with wild flowers in springtime and golden leaves in autumn. We offer both guided and self guided holidays in the Alentejo that are carefully designed to show you the best of this unique and beautiful region.

Walking in the Alentejo

Guided walks
Alentejo Essence

This walk will take you to the heart of the Alto Alentejo. This region, by the Spanish border, is renowned for its magnificent medieval castles and walled towns, stunning mountain scenery, rolling countryside dotted with vineyards and olive groves and fine wines! During the holiday you'll have time to visit historical sites, a famous museum and two quintas for private wine tastings. An indulgent walking holiday in breathtaking surroundings! This 7 night walking holiday costs £625/$1250.00 or €900 including accommodation, meals, transfers, luggage transfers and an experienced walk leader. The next departure dates are April 26 & Oct 11 2008

contact us for a detailed itinerary or for information about walking in the Alentejo

Self guided walks in the Alentejo
The Wild West
A chance to enjoy the Alentejo's breath taking and untamed coastline and really explore the spectacular Cape St Vincent Natural Park, home to lots of rare flora and fauna. As this holiday is within the natural park there are few hotels and so we have arranged car hire for you so that you can easily get to and from the start of the walks. This 7 night walking holiday costs November to March: £375.00, $750.00 or €545, April to June £450.00, $900.00 or €652 including accommodation, 7 days car hire group A, welcome meeting and detailed maps and notes.

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Beyond the Mountains
The perfect get away from it all holiday, this walk shows you the sheer diversity of the region taking you through the mountains, along the shore of a vast lake and finally to the unspoilt coast and the Cape St Vincent Natural Park. A must for bird watchers and nature lovers. This 7 night walking holiday costs October to March: £455.00, $910.00 or €660, April to June: £495.00, $990.00 or €720 including accommodation, 5 picnics and 4 dinners, transfers and detailed walking maps and notes.

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Practicalities of Walking in the Algarve and the Alentejo

Getting here:
If you want to come walking in the Algarve the nearest airport is Faro, if you are planning to visit the Alentejo you could fly to Faro or Lisbon. Some of our walks include transfers to and from the airport, for the others we will help you plan your journey by bus, train or car.
The weather
We organise our walking holidays between mid September and June. The mild, often sunny, autumn and spring are particularly lovely seasons for walking when the trees and flowers are in blossom or the leaves are golden. July and August are really too hot for walking in the Algarve or the Alentejo.
If you'd like more information or a detailed itinerary for any of our walks please use the form below.

Links to more information about Walking in Portugal

General Information about walking in Portugal
Other walking holidays in Portugal with this company
All walking holidays in Portugal
Read other travellers' stories about walking in Portugal