Lisa

Detour route: Due to high water levels, the crossing from Carrapateira to Bordeira Beach was not possible. An alternative route via the main road had to be taken for the first few kilometers before returning to the scenic Fishermen’s Trail. Bordeira Beach is beautiful, and when there is no high water, I highly recommend taking the more scenic route along the beach.

This is the inland route of the Rota Vicentina. The trail leads through lush green nature and rural areas, and in this variation it requires several crossings of a small creek. To keep your feet dry, it’s necessary to take off your shoes multiple times, which actually makes for a refreshing experience. If you prefer not to remove your shoes, there is a signposted detour/shortcut that goes over a steep hill. Since I know the Fishermen’s Trail (Rota Vicentina) well, I would recommend choosing the coastal route in suitable weather. Even though the inland route (Rota Vicentina) is very beautiful and enjoyable, the path along the sea is simply outstanding with marvelous views. That said, the inland route might be the better option for people with a fear of heights, as parts of the Fishermen’s Trail run very close to steep cliffs above the ocean.

Connection from Cavoeiro (end of part 1 od today’s hike) to Ferragudo by bus. After walking to Portimao and exploring the river promenade, I connected to Vila do Bispo via bus in order to continue hiking on the fishermen’s trail/rota vicentina.

Wonderful hike including the trail of the seven hanging valleys (red-yellow marked official hiking trail).

This is part 2 of Day 2. I took a bus from Olhos de Agua to Albufeira, because there was no trail along the coast. A beautiful and varied hike, mostly along the sea, with stunning natural scenery. The hike ends with several kilometers on wooden boardwalks through the Salgados Nature Reserve, home to a wide variety of birds.

If you want to skip the touristy promenade in Quarteira, I recommend taking the bus to Vilamoura. From there, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the red-colored Falésia cliffs.

This is day 1 of a three-day hike between Faro Airport and Portimão, exploring the south coast of the Algarve on foot. From Portimão, it’s easy to connect to the Fishermen’s Trail (Rota Vicentina) or continue hiking towards Alvor. Having hiked the Fishermen’s Trail several times, I didn’t expect too much from the south coast. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful landscapes and the variety of scenic trails through nature. Short description of day 1: After taking the bike path along the main road to the Ludo hiking trail, you mostly walk on wooden boardwalks and trails, initially through Ria Formosa. Then you descend to the beach and continue walking on the sand. There is little shade, but the colors are beautiful. Despite being a touristy area, it is very quiet, with lovely landscapes and no car noise.