Be prepared to be delightfully surprised by Portugal’s Algarve Coast, where seascapes, nature and history combine. Delicious cuisine, colorful fishing villages and a wonderful variety of birdlife to spot will provide abiding memories, as will our expedition inland to lofty Mount Foia and a picnic at the summit.
But the ocean is never far away here. The awe-inspiring Seven Hanging Valleys trail winds along the shore where, over thousands of years, watercourses have carved out natural sea arches, caverns, and gorges.
Ponta da Piedade is the chance to admire one of the most beautiful rock formations in the Algarve and breathtaking views of the clear blue waters below.
And last, but most definitely not least, a full day to spend discovering glorious Cape St Vincent. Until the end of the 14th century many believed this place to be the end of the world.
And indeed, here where the European continent ends on a towering cliff, we will see how that could be. Next stop the Americas!
Meet at our waterside hotel in Faro, overlooking the marina and a national park. Welcome Dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Faro, Hotel 3HB
We begin in the lively fishing port of Olhao, visiting the fish and vegetable market before boarding a boat to Culatra, one of the tiny sandbar islands off the coast with no vehicles and no roads. We’ll walk on the beach with stunning water views to the lighthouse, then have lunch nearby. Return Faro with the option to visit the old town center or relax by the hotel pool.
Faro, Hotel 3HB
Today’s walk follows the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, one of the most scenic hiking routes in the Algarve. We’ll walk along massive limestone cliffs eroded by the sea, stopping to explore hidden caves, sinkholes and majestic sea arches. After lunch in Carvoeiro, we transfer to Monchique, where we can walk up to the Picota viewpoint and down to our hotel, or relax at the hotel spa.
Monchique, Hotel Monchique Resort & Spa
Spend the day on Mount Fóia. At 3,000 ft, this is the highest point in the Algarve mountain range. Our walk begins in Fóia, then walk up to the summit for a picnic lunch. Afterward, enjoy panoramic views of whitewashed villages reaching out to the sea, and explore the vast native flora growing on the mountain. We’ll end the day walking under the cork trees to Marmelete.
Monchique, Hotel Monchique Resort & Spa
A short transfer takes us to Lagos with its old town castle and 15th century slave market. We follow the coastal path to iconic Ponte de Piedade, one of the most beautiful rock formations in the Algarve. After a visit we proceed via Praia da Luz, to Praia da Salema for lunch. Then walk via the exquisite and secluded Praia da Ingrina enroute to our next hotel.
Sagres, Pousada Sagres
Transfer from the hotel to the west coast near Bordeira, and walk along sand dunes and cliffs beside the Atlantic. After lunch, in Carrapateira, the walk continues to Amado Beach.
Sagres, Pousada Sagres
Set out on an all-day walk to Cape St Vincent. Count on spectacular ocean views from cliffs that rise 250 feet above the sea. With its proud seafaring history, this part of the Algarve is as interesting as it is beautiful. Walk on massive cliffs that continue to be lashed by the mighty Atlantic and witness migrant birds, gannets, dolphins and whales plundering the rich sea life offshore. Farewell Dinner at our hotel.
Sagres, Pousada Sagres
After breakfast, Wayfaring Walks will transfer you to Faro Airport (90 minutes) for your onward flight or to Tunes Railway Station (1 hour) to continue your onward journey by train.
