Walking Portugal's Coast and Beaches TripNotes

Ways to Travel: Guided Group

Destinations: Portugal

Programmes: Walking & Trekking

Trip Code:

TSV Leisurely / Moderate

8 Days Land only

Min age: 16

Trip Overview

Boasting one of the most beautiful and well-preserved coastlines of Europe, blessed with wild pristine beaches, towering cliffs, great

biodiversity, remote whitewashed traditional villages and a temperate climate, Portugal’s Rota Vicentina is the ultimate hikers and

ramblers' paradise. We have hand-picked the very best walks from the 125km selection of coastal trails that span the tranquil

Portuguese region of Alentejo and along the few remaining undeveloped shores of the Algarve. Starting from the picturesque town of

Vila Nova de Milfontes, we walk on quiet breath-taking cliff trails used by locals to get to the beaches and hot fishing spots, and end in

the famous town of Sagres. We stay overnight in three different villages strategically located to provide easy access to/from the trails

each day. Always in close contact with refreshing ocean winds, rugged coastal scenery and wild and powerful natural landscape,

walking in this remote corner of Europe will be truly reinvigorating.

At a Glance

Trip Highlights

7 nights 2 and 3-star hotels, all rooms en suite

5 days guided walking and 1 free day

Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Min age 16 yrs.

All transport by private cars or minibus

Countries visited: Portugal

Current as of: August 8, 2019 - 17:03

Valid for departures: From January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2020

Is This Trip for You?

Grade: 2 (Leisurely/Moderate) 5 days guided walking with low altitude throughout.

Portugal's Rota Vicentina is home to some of the best coastal walks in Europe. The remote quiet trails and temperate climate make this

a heaven for hikers and ramblers. The average walking distance each day is approx. 13 km and the pace of the walks allows time to

rest and enjoy the views. The walks are mostly undulating and do not include any long challenging climbs however the terrain can

make the walking quite exerting at times as we will be walking mostly on sandy trails as beaches well as rugged clifftop paths. Some

of the trails are exposed but there will be always the option to walk far enough from the exposed parts for those with a fear of

heights.

Walks usually take between 4 and 6 hours including lunch stops (depending on the pace of your group) and require a good level of

fitness.

Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if

you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.

Adult min age: 16

Min group size: 4Max group size: 16

Itinerary

Dramatic cliffs, forgotten sandy beaches and quiet trails

Excellent bird watching opportunities and mild year-round climate

Stay overnight in authentic whitewashed villages including Sagres

Reach Cape of St Vincent, Europe's most south western point

Land Only

Start City: Vila Nova de Milfontes

End City: Sagres

Land Only Itinerary

Day 1

Start in the charming seaside town of Vila Nova de Milfontes

This trip starts in the seaside town of Vila Nova de Milfontes, located in the heart of the beautiful Alentejo coastline approx 2

hrs from Faro and 2.5 hrs from Lisbon. Still largely undiscovered by foreign visitors, the town is delightfully Portuguese, filled

with cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and scenic views across the Mira River. It is also the start point of incredible coastal

trails leading to vast stretches of wild and deserted beaches. Despite its remote location, it has an extensive selection of

restaurants, and a lively nightlife making it a perfect base for the first three days of the tour.

Day 2

Rewarding coastal walk to Almograve; transfer back to Vila Nova de Milfontes.

We start the week with a relatively short coastal hike offering superb views throughout. Leaving from the hotel, we cross by

boat and admire the views of the River Mira meeting the ocean, with the small whitwashed town and lush hillsides in the

background. There are stretches along today's trail where native vegetation displays all its diversity and other areas where it has

been wiped out by a most aggressive exotic plant – the Acacia. At times farmlands stretches right down to the ocean, but you

can also enjoy other traces of human presence such as local, non-commercial, fishing or small stone-age quarries hidden amongst

the dunes, a reminder that man has lived in this remote corner of the world since ancient times. Between March and October

you’ll be able to spot many swifts since Alpine, Pallid and Common Swift all nest along this coast. Interestingly, swifts spend over

90% of their life in the air as they feed, mate and sleep in flight - they are so well adapted to flying that landing on the ground

may be fatal. The walk ends in the peaceful town of Almograve, perfect for an unhurried, afternoon stroll or break before we

return by private transfer to Vila Nova de Milfontes.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Distance covered: 13 km / 8 miles

Altitude gain (m): 230

Altitude loss (m): 207

Day 3

Walk from Cabo Sardão to Zambujeira do Mar along dramatic high cliffs, nesting spot of more thantwenty species of birds.

Small fishing harbours, sand dunes, the scent of pine tree forests and the sight, seen nowhere else in the world, of storks

nesting on the cliffs make this today's walk truly special. We start with a short transfer (approx. 20mins) to Cabo

Sardão lighthouse which was pecularly built the wrong way round. The entry door is facing the ocean and the lighthouse is

facing inland! This is the start of today's trail which follows the high cliffs exposed to the constant salty ocean waves and winds,

and favourite nesting spot for over twenty species of birds! These include Jackdaw, Shag, Common Kestrel, White Stork, and the

Peregrine Falcon, the fastest recorded animal in the world. When they dive in flight they can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h! We

will have time to stop and watch these birds, especially during spring, when it is possible to quietly observe their mating rituals

and the careful building of their nests. We pass Lapa das Pombas, a picturesque tiny non-commercial fishing harbour, before

concluding the walk in the sleepy seaside village of Zambujeira do Mar and its wondeful beach. In the afternoon we return to

Vila Nova de Milfontes by transfer (approx. 30mins).

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Distance covered: 9 km / 5.5 miles

Altitude gain (m): 210

Altitude loss (m): 200

Day 4

Coastal walk to Odeceixe; admire breath-taking rock, cliff formations and some of Portugal’s bestbeaches; transfer to Vale da Telha.

This morning we transfer (approx. 40 mins) to Carvalhal beach, the start of today's walk. Along this stretch of coast it is

interesting to take a close look at the cliffs' rocks composed of schist and greywacke, resulting from the consolidation of sand,

clay and volcanic ashes accumulated on the bottom of an ancient ocean over 300 million years ago. This whole coastal region

has a very special energy and it was here that the Fado diva Amália Rodrigues seeked refuge and inspiration for her songs.

Along the walk we may also spot traces of nocturnal mammals include Egyptian Mongoose (locally known as “Escalabardo”),

Weasel, Beech Marten (also known as “Papalvo”), Badger, Genet and rabbits. Before reaching Odeceixe, we will take a break in

Ponta em Branco (white summit) so named for the colour of the sediments that form its summit, marking the border between the

Alentejo and the Algarve regions. This is considered one of the the most scenic points in the entire region thanks to the

breathtking views over Odeceixe beach, with the mountain top of Fóia and Monchique as a backdrop. We transfer to the cosy

hotel near Arrifana beach, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or a drink on the sunny terrace before dinner.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Distance covered: 12 km / 7.5 miles

Altitude gain (m): 470

Altitude loss (m): 470

Day 5

Free day; enjoy an optional circular walk to Arrifana beach or other activities such as surfing and horseriding.

Today is free to choose from the many optional activities available in the area. You may decide to go on a self-guided circular

walk passing the beaches of Monte Clérigo, Pontal da Atalaia , as well as the famous surfing beach of Arrifana . Alternatively you

may book a surfing class or a horse riding excursion along the spectacular coastline. We also suggest a visit to the small market

town of Aljezur, famous for its whitewashed houses and cobbled streets and dominated by the ruins of a tenth century Moorish

castle.

Meals included: Breakfast

All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders. Please note that different

GPS measuring devices can give differing results dependent on the barometric pressures at the time. Measurements stated throughout

these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter.

Accommodation

Comfortable hotels

Day 6

Circular walk around Carrapateira; enjoy stunning ocean views and the sandy beaches of Bordeira andAmado; transfer to Sagres.

Today we travel further south and transfer (approx. 30 mins) to the village of Carrapateira, the start of today's short circular

walk. Along the circuit we will come across various viewpoints, with superb views of the sandy beaches of Bordeira and Amado

and also the ruins of an ancient Islamic fishermen’s settlement. On the first part of the trail we will walk through

undulating dunes carpeted by lush vegetation and aromatic wild plants including thyme, yellow amaranths, rosemary, lavender,

crowberries, blue pimpernel, sea lavender. We then walk along the limestone cliffs for most of the trail and may get the

opportunity to spot the cormorant, a wintering bird which is an expert angler, consuming almost 1 kg of fish per day! In the

afternoon we transfer (approx. 20 mins) to the village of Sagres, at the extreme western tip of the Algarve. Although primarily

known as a surfing destination, Sagres has a lot more to offer. You may decide to spend the rest of the day in one of the

sheltered pristine beaches, or book an optional dophin watching excursion along the coast (weather and season dependent).

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Distance covered: 12 km / 7.5 miles

Altitude gain (m): 200

Altitude loss (m): 200

Day 7

Final cliff walk to Cape St. Vincent, the south-westernmost point in continental Europe; afternoonoptional visit to Sagres fort.

Surrounded by foaming Atlantic breakers, Cabo de Sao Vicente marks the most south-westerly point of Europe. The final walk

from Sagres out to the edge of the continent should prove to be one of the highlights of the week! Surrounded by amazing

coastal scenery, we will walk across a wild trail that follows sandy paths and gorse-strewn meadows to the very edge of the

Iberian Peninsula. Setting off from our hotel, we start walking on monumental cliffs and ravines covered with native vegetation

passing first by the golden beach of Beliche, and, then after a short section inland, Telheiro beach, a place of extraordinary

geological interest. The last section of the path continues along the cliff top before a memorable arrival to Cape St. Vincent

where we find a lighthouse, museum and small bar, offering wonderful photo opportunities. It's only a short transfer (5 mins)

back to Sagres where we can choose to visit the imposing sea fortress at sunset or relax with a cold drink on the waterfront,

watching fishermen mending their nets. 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Distance covered: 10 km / 6.2 miles

Altitude gain (m): 190

Altitude loss (m): 210

Day 8

End Sagres

This trip ends in Sagres in the morning of Day 8. 

Meals included: Breakfast

On this trip we will use three different hotels. All rooms are en suite and all hotels have a swimming pool.

Hotels normally used:

Vila Nova de Milfontes (3 nights):  Hotel HS Milfontes Beach ***Located on the main beach avenue in Vila Nova de Milfontes, it enjoys the most amazing views of the Mira river bay. It also offers an

outdoor pool and gym. 

Vale da Telha (Aljezur) (2 nights): Hotel Vale Da Telha **Simple but very cosy hotel, offering a very relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, modern rooms, as well as an outdoor pool with a spacious

sun deck.

Sagres (2 nights): Aparthotel Navigator *** (2019 only)

Overlooking Mareta Beach, this hotel offers spacious apartments with balcony and an outdoor pool. The Fortress of Sagresand town's

centre are within walking distance.

Please note that from 2020 we will stay at the fabulous 4-star Memmo Baleeira Hotel Sagres, offering an outdoor pool with

magnificent Atlantic Ocean views. It also has a spa and a heated indoor pool, Turkish bath and sauna.

Where a single supplement is available, paying for a single only guarantees a room for single use. It does not always mean a twin or

double room will be provided for sole occupancy.

Single supplement from $310.00 USD

Food & Transport

Eating & Drinking

All breakfasts and 5 pic-nic lunches

The picnic lunches will include a mix of sandwiches, cheeses, cured meats and fruit.

During the week we will get the opportunity to sample other delicacies and traditional dishes of this region which will include some of

the freshest seafood and fish. The local speciality from the sea is the Barnacle Perceve, this is not taken from the bottom of boats but

the bottom of submerged local cliffs, it is harvested by hand using a dangerous and traditional method, which involves one of the two

collectors dangling by a rope from the top of the cliffs! Away from the sea the dried hams, salamis and cheese are excellent. Good

quality meat is also always on the menu. Vegetables are plentiful and although vegetarian dishes in traditional restaurants are

available, the choice may be limited.

Transportation

Airport transfers will be by private minibus. During the week we have included some short transfers by private cars or minibus to take

you to the begining of the walk or back to our hotel after a day of walking.

Weather & Seasonality

When to go

The South West of Portugal has one of the best climates in the world, with a Mediterranean climate with a strong Atlantic influence,

guaranteeing mild temperatures throughout the year. Winters are short and are never very cold, but offer enough rain to fertilize the

soil for the nine months when the sun is king. The recommended period to walk the Rota Vicentina is from September till June, when

our departures are scheduled. In winter, temperatures do not fall below 11ºC during the day and this is normally the rainiest period of

the year. From March on, sunny days alternate with rainy days and temperatures start to rise. The reborn landscape and the intensity

of the colours and aromas make spring one of the best seasons to visit the area. Heat waves can push up temperatures in July and

August and it gets too hot for walking. In the autumn months temperatures are generally quite mild, with the ocean waters reaching

pleasant temperatures for swimming. Please note that coastal areas of Portugal are known to be quite windy throughout the year. We

highly recommend that you check the weather forecasts close to the arrival date and bring adequate rain gear.

Weather Charts

Joining Instructions

Travelling land only: 8 days starting in Vila Nova de Milfontes and ending in Sagres

Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Vila Nova de Milfontes  in the afternoon of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to=

reach the start point are provided in the Final Joining Instructions - sent approximately two weeks before departure.

Transfers Details

Faro Airport (FAO) transfers are included if you are able to join the group transfer timings:. 

If you require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement only) be able to join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged to= coincide with the arrival time of the group timings- please check the group flight details 2 weeks before departure. If you do not

take= this transfer, or miss it, you must make your own way to the joining point at your own expense. Vila Nova de Milfontes, located 170km from Faro Airport, is difficult to reach by public transport. The daily services are very limited and total journey times (including connections) can be very long. You would need to take a bus to Lagos and from there take another bus to Vila Nova de Milfontes – the journey would take approximately 4.5hrs. Therefore, we highly recommend that you try and join the group transfer at the airport. Alternatively, you can pre-book a private arrival transfer through our office (payable in advance).

Location start: Vila Nova de Milfontes

Location end: Sagres

What to Take

Essential Equipment

Optional Equipment

Walking shoes or boots

Warm clothing in February, March, October and November

Sunhat, suncream

Daypack to carry your belongings on walks

Waterproof jacket

Waterbottle

Light beach towel

Umbrella

Swimwear 

Walking poles

Practical InformationPassport

Portugal

All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid beyond the intended length of stay. It is your responsibility to have the=

correct personal documents and to obtain your own visa, if one is necessary, in accordance with the regulations of the country you are =

to visit. The information offered below is to help you with that process. We are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and=

customs officials, whether at points of entry or otherwise, and any subsequent effects.

Visa

Portugal

No visa required for US passport holders.

For further travel advice please visit U.S. State Department at https://www.state.gov/travelers/

Visa regulations can change without notice: please check the current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is required.

There are no specific health risks on this trip.

Vaccination

Portugal

There are no specific health risks.

Travel health can often be something people forget about before going away, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long way=

to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad.

The above information can change at short notice; as we are not qualified to answer all your questions about travel health we strongly=

recommend you contact your Medical Professional or a Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for up-to-date=

information. Please note: vaccinations that are routinely recommended to residents of North America or Australasia are not= considered

to form part of the travel health advice, and you should ensure these are kept up to date where necessary.

For additional information please visit: Centers for Disease Control C.D.C at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

Insurance - are you adequately covered?

It is a condition of joining any of our holidays that you must be fully insured against medical and personal accident risks (to include=

repatriation costs and air ambulance or helicopter rescue services where appropriate). On arrival in destination for your trip, you will be=

asked to present details to your leader or local representative of your policy.

If you are resident in the US we strongly recommend the Travelex Travel Select travel insurance policy, this is specifically designed to

cover all= activities on your trip. If arranging your own policy please ensure that you are covered for all activities that are part of the

trip, optional= activities that you intend to take part in and/or on high altitude itineraries, that you are covered up to the maximum

altitude of the= trip.

Local Time

Portugal's Timezone: Europe/Lisbon WEST (GMT +01:00)

Electricity

Portugal's Electricity: European 2-pin plug. 

 European 2-pin plug

Money

Portugal's Currency

The national currency of Portugal is the Euro (EUR), with an exchange rate at the time of publication of approximately 0.9 to the US$.

Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication.

ATM Availability

ATMs are available in the main towns where we stay but they may not be walking distance from the hotel so we recommend taking=

some Euros cash with you. Cards are widely accepted but cash is generally preferred in local restaurants and small shops.

Extra Expenses & Spending Money

You will need spending money for meals not included in the itinerary and all drinks. We suggest to budget approx. €25 per day to cover=

for dinner with drinks if not then €15-20 per day. On the days where lunch or dinner is not included expect to spend €10-€15 for=

lunch.

Optional Activities:

Sagres - Dolphin Watching approx. €35 per person (season and weather dependent)

Sagres - boat trip approx.€30 per person  (season and weather dependent)

Sagres Fort €3 per person

Arrifana - Surf lesson 1/2 day approx. €30-35 per person

Tipping

Although optional, a tip for the leader at the end of the trip is greatly appreciated. As a guideline we recommend a contribution of €15=

per client per leader. 

Responsible Tourism

At Breakaway we believe in the power of Responsible Travel.

Every time we travel, we are part of a global movement that creates jobs, builds more sustainable societies, encourages cultural=

understanding and safeguards common natural and cultural heritage.

Important Information

On all guided trips

Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely=partake in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorize them to take necessary action which, in some=

circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.

Although rarely enforced, by booking this trip you agree to section 5 of our Booking Conditions which clearly states that our leaders=

have the authority to do this. In these circumstances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative=

options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.

On all trips

In booking this trip you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any=doubt about your suitability you should call the Breakaway office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.

In an emergency, please contact our 24 hour out of hours service on +44 (0) 844 326 7041.

Every time that you travel abroad you should take the time to read the warnings in the essential information in the brochure.

Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers, and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you=

approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier=

please contact our office or your travel agent.

The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or=

website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; in order to enjoy=

them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, as stated in our brochure, it may not be possible to follow=

the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons - climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make=

the best possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.

This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. Swimming results in more tourists deaths=

than any other activity. All customers should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim, and are requested to treat the=

sea with extreme caution if they choose to enter the water.

TRAVEL AWARE –STAY SAFE & HEALTHY ABROAD

The U.S. State Department has up-to-date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad. For more on security,= local laws, plus passport and

visa information, see https://www.state.gov/travelers/

Keep informed of current travel health news by visiting Centers for Disease Control C.D.C at

https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

Advice can change so check regularly for updates.

For all latest travel information about your holiday, please visit our Travel Safety

Advice page.

How to Book

Ready to book?  Please contact Breakaway Adventures on Tel: 1-800-567-6286; International Tel: +1-843-856-9771.

https://www.breakaway-adventures.com

Version 2