Spring Walking Break in Portugal
Get to know the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Nature Parks on our spring break to Portugal - the finest preserved stretch of European coastline. Over three moderate level walks explore not only the coast but also the small towns Odeceixe, Monchique and Aljezur and the mountains of the northwest Algarve.
Highlights
- Hike the rugged coastline of the Fisherman’s Trail
- Find nesting storks and ancient settlements on the Arrifana cliffs
- Summit the highest two peaks in the Algarve
- Explore the historic towns of Aljezur and Monchique
- Relax on the golden sands of Odeceixe beach
- Try local cuisine inspired from the sea and mountains
- Optional: yoga on the final afternoon
Alentejo offers miles of wild and often secluded beaches carved into cliffs. Large areas of the coast and countryside are protected as natural parks and reserves where some of the most precious flora and fauna can be found.
Far from the hustle and bustle of other more touristy areas of the Algarve visit the heart of the Costa Vicentina. This protected area includes 100 rare species of plant life, 30 certified habitats a number of endemic species, birdlife and fish that play an important role in the biggest marine park on Portugal. Many rare bird species can be seen, such as rare fishing eagles as well as white storks that build their nests in the seashore rocks which is unique to this area.
Grade: Moderate
READ GRADE DESCRIPTIONAt a Glance
| Holiday Type | Walking |
| Duration | 5 Days |
| Group Size | 5-12 |
| Minimum Age | 18 |
| Maximum Altitude | 892m (2926ft) |
| Countries Visited | Portugal |
| Meet In | Faro Airport, Portugal |
Dates and Prices
No Departures Available
There are currently no scheduled departures for this holiday. Please contact us for more information about future dates.
Itinerary
The meeting point for this trip is Faro Airport, Portugal then transfer to Odeceixe where we will stay for two nights. For more details consult the 'Arrival & Departure' section under 'Trip Information'. The transfer time is about 1 hour 20 minutes.
Situated on the Seixe river Odeceixe is a small village in the west Algarve. That river is the natural border between the Algarve and the Alentejo region. The village sits on the Algarve side of the border and is particularly photogenic with an old windmill at the top and typical whitewashed houses with terracotta rooftops that graduate down the hillside to the river. There is a small square, church and a few shops.
Due to arriving early we have time to check in to our accommodation and take a short walk through the town and then visit the beautiful Praia de Odeceixe where the river meets the sea. Our welcome meeting will be at our accommodation at 1800hrs followed by our evening meal in a local taverna.
Our first hike starts by the mouth of the Seixe River where we step on to the Fishermen's Trail on a point-to-point route. Arguably one of the best coastal hikes in the world that connects Cape St Vincent, Portugal's most south-westerly point, to Porto Covo. Today's walk is said to be the most beautiful section of the entire 13 day fishermen's route. Through cliffs and dunes covered with vegetation the trail soon reaches the natural fishing port of Azenha do Mar where we can stop for refreshments at an impressive view point. Then we hike up and down through a series of incredible beaches accompanied by butterflies and wild flowers until we reach Carvalhal for our picnic stop. It's then onto Alteirinhos beach and our destination for today - the village of Zambujeira do Mar which means 'Seaside Olive'. Here the 'must do' things are to relax on the main beach Praia da Zambujeira—famous for its rugged cliffs and golden sand and sample the local ice cream before taking our taxi back to our accommodation in Odeceixe.
Distance: 10.5km (6.5 miles) Time: 4-5 hours Ascent: 350m (1148ft) Descent: 300m (984ft)
Leaving Odeceixe we drive a short way to reach the historic town of Aljezur where we stop for a short tour of the town and dive into the history of the region. The town is surrounded by steams that join as the Ribeira de Aljezur making it very fertile land. The old village is set on a hill and dominated by a castle on top which is represented on the Portugese flag.
It's then onto Arrifana village which really exemplifies the wild west Algarve and with it a surfers paradise. After a quick coffee we start another section of the fishermen's trail. We first come to fishermen's huts and the remains of a Fort Arrifana - which was originally constructed in 1635 with the intention of protecting fishing grounds for tuna as well as defending the coast. Our path then heads onto the coast and winds up and down the dunes and connecting rivers where if we are lucky we can spot nesting stalks along the way. Our trail passes through the Ribat of Arrifana, an Islamic fortress-convent, occupied by warrior monks in the 12thcentury. This is the only known Ribat in Portugal, founded by Ibn Qasî, a political leader and spiritual guide of Islam’s. It was a fortress convent, dedicated to prayer and watching over the coast and there's no wonder why it's location was chosen.
After crossing yet more impressive cliff tops we reach Monte Clérigo beach another surfing spot where we wait for our taxi to drive on to the mountains (45 minutes) and check into the family run Montalma guesthouse where the views of the Algarve at sunset are amazing.
Distance: 13km (8 miles) Time: 4.5-5 hours Ascent: 178m (583ft) Descent: 223m (731ft)
We wake this morning to the sound of the birds and see the sun rise from our balcony windows. After a delicious homemade breakfast made with produce from the garden we head out to explore trails from the accommodation door. Todays' walk is in two parts a walk up Fóia (902m/2953ft), the Algarve's highest peak, and later a hike up Picota (774m/2539ft), the second highest peak! Yes that's right, as we are close to the top we can gain two summits in a day!
We are already close to the top of Fóia so it doesn't take us long to gain the summit plateau for fabulous early morning views of the entire Algarve coastline and surrounding countryside and well worth the effort. We then return back to our accommodation via a panoramic trail (5km/3.1miles). We then transfer down to the colourful town of Monchique, situated between both Foia and Picota mountains. Monchique is made up of white washed building that wind up the hill to a ruined convent, passing galleries and workshops that sell wood, ceramics and embroidered handicrafts. After a coffee in the square we make our way to the start of our second hike for today for our ascent of Picota - summit number two! The Picota trail, which is all on good paths, it a circular route that rises steadily first passing farms, then through cork, chestnut and then a eucalyptus forest where the smell is simply divine! Enjoying the view of Monchique and Foia behind we climb steadily then onto rock for a short section to gain the top for stunning views which are all worth the effort. We return down via a different route to Monchique where there will be time to do some souvenir shopping before heading up to Montalma 'our cozy retreat on the mountain" for our last night.
Distance: 10-12.5 km (6.2 - 8 miles) Time: 4-5hours Ascent: 350m (1148ft) Descent: 300m (984ft)
Today is departure day. Your airport transfer is included in your trip price and it's at the airport where the package ends. The journey time is about 1 hour. Depending on the flight times it's possible that we will have time to visit Lagos on our way to the airport.
It is our aim to complete the proposed itinerary outlined above, however, it may be necessary for our guides/instructors to adjust the daily itinerary based on the weather conditions, group safety and enjoyment.
Accommodation
We aim to accommodate our guests in well-situated, clean, characterful, family run accommodation. Our trip fees are based on two people sharing a bedroom, what we call a 'twin' means two single beds in one bedroom. If you are booking as a single traveller you will share with someone of the same gender. A single room may be available for your private use, but requires early booking and will incur a supplementary charge. For further details refer to Trip Information > Single Supplements. Our suggested accommodation, listed below, is subject to availability at the time of booking and is an indication of our accommodation, not a guarantee. Note it is unusual to have air conditioning in bedrooms in the mountain areas where our trips take place. If you have any questions about the accommodation please contact us.
Casas do Moinho - Odeceixe
The Casas do Moinho offers accommodation in old village houses that have been converted into contemporary bed and breakfast style accommodation.
Casas de Moinho is situated at the top of the villages with fabulous views each accommodation has access to access to the outdoor pool, pool towels, and bikes (subject to availability). Enjoy a wonderful breakfast and easy access to the village, shops and tavernas for evening meals.
Montalma - Monchique
Montalma is located at Montes da Foia, a short walk away from Fóia the highest point of the Algarve. Escape from everything and enjoy the view from this fabulous vantage point.
Montalma has 5 ensuite rooms with balconies facing the coast which provides fabulous sunsets. There is a garden and small pool for a post walk dip and a delicious and nutritious breakfast using seasonal produce from our the garden, organic eggs, home-made jams and juices and artisanal breads.
Trip Information
The meeting point for this trip is Faro Airport, Portugal from 14h15 in the Arrivals hall on Sunday 10th May 2026.
Train Travel from the UK to Portugal
If travelling by train we recommend booking through RailEurope or Trainline. Times and options can be viewed on rome2rio. You can also choose to arrive the evening before and meet the group at Faro airport.
Flights
Faro has flights from various European destinations and many UK airports. Skyscanner can help you to source the best option.
Arrival at Faro Airport
We have included one single-timed transfer from Faro Airport to Odeceixe on the trip Arrival day.
Our departure/pick up time from Faro airport is scheduled to meet the East Midlands Ryanair flight no. FR1761 10h45-13h40.
Departure from Faro Airport
We have included two transfers from Monchique to Faro Airport on the trip Departure day, Thursday 14 May 2026, in order to take either of these flights:
11:25-14:25 Jet2 LS686 flight to East Midlands
14:25-17:20 Ryanair FR2912 flight to Birmingham
It is your responsibility to ensure any insurance taken out is appropriate for your trip and the activity you will be undertaking. Tracks & Trails cannot advise on insurance policies or be held responsible if, in the event of a claim, your insurance is inadequate.
Activity, Injury and Mountain Rescue It is a condition of booking you are insured for mountain rescue, medical expenses, injury, illness, death, cost of repatriation and personal accident risks. The exception to the mountain rescue insurance requirement is if the trip is taking place in the United Kingdom or Norway where mountain rescue is free of charge. Ensure your insurance covers you to the maximum altitude given on your trip itinerary. The maximum altitude can be checked in the 'At A Glance' box on the trip page.
Trip Cancellation/Curtailment Insurance Insurance should be booked as soon as we confirm your trip is going ahead. Deposit and balance payments are non-refundable unless it is Tracks and Trails who cancel the trip due to a failure to reach the minimum numbers required. In this case we offer a full refund or the option to transfer to another trip.
Baggage Loss/Equipment Damage We advise insurance which covers baggage loss/equipment damage.
All the above is detailed in our Terms and Conditions. For further information on insurance options click here.
When packing for a Nordic walking trip in the mountains it's important to have appropriate equipment and clothing. This kit list features items we believe are necessary for the weather you might encounter and accommodation you will be staying in.
Equipment
Walking boots or shoes - comfortable (walking shoes are acceptable, but might not be suitable if wet or snowy weather)
Nordic Walking Poles
Rucksack – 20-25 litres, ideally with a chest & waist strap
Rucksack liner/cover - to keep contents dry
Water container - 1 to 1.5 litres, or hydration system
Gaiters - useful in wet climates, but not essential
Clothing
Waterproof Jacket - essential
Waterproof Trousers - we reserve the right to ask you to purchase waterproof trousers if necessary, or to ask you to miss a day if you are not properly equipped for the weather
Trousers - walking trousers that allow free movement
Shorts/skort
Sun hat
Warm hat
Gloves
Base layer - such as t-shirt/thermal tops
Fleece jacket/top
Socks - technical walking socks
Duvet jacket/warm second layer
Thermal leggings - optional, and only needed if a cold day
Comfort
Sunscreen - this is essential and a total ‘bloc’ is useful
Lip salve
Sunglasses – essential as the sun can be extremely strong in the mountains
Toilet/tissues - plus a few biodegradable bags to dispose of rubbish
Anti-bacterial hand wash
Swimwear - if your accommodation has a pool/sauna or access to a beach/open water
Personal First Aid
Personal medication
Blister plasters
Painkillers/Anti-inflammatories
Glucose tablets/Energy gel
2 x Re-hydration sachets - eg Dioralyte
Throat lozenges
Antiseptic cream/spray
Documentation
Mountain Rescue Insurance - compulsory
Passport
Credit card
Cash - Euros
GHIC - if travelling from UK for medical cover
Additional Items
Slippers for use at accommodation
Clothing for use at accommodation
Camera/ Book/Music
Toiletries - soap/shower gel
Ear plugs - if room sharing
Small thermos for hot drinks
Head torch - plus spare batteries, useful if room sharing
1x Medium size kit bag/holdall/suitcase
**Supplementary snacks if you follow a gluten free or coeliac diet**
Leaders are all first aid trained and carry their own first aid kit
If you wish to extend your trip to Portugal please let us know so that we can assist you with your planning.
On many trips there will be an element of 'group kit'. This kit will will be minimal and usually a case of sharing a few lightweight 'survival shelters'. For example, on a week-long trip you may carry a shelter for one day before passing it to the next person. If you are booking a trip in winter there will be a few additional safety items, such as a snow shovel, probe, spare ski pole etc.
When booking a holiday as a solo traveller a twin bedded room comprising of two single beds, is booked as standard. This will be with someone of the same gender unless you request to pay extra for your own room. Single rooms are limited in supply on this trip (maximum 3) so if you would like to pay a supplement for a single room we urge you to get in touch as soon as possible. This trip has a single supplement of £260.
Tracks and Trails go to great lengths to work with first class guides who are passionate about their work. They are fully qualified, insured, and hold the correct documentation. Your guide has our authority to make any route changes they believe are necessary in the interests of safety and enjoyment. Your hiking guide will be a qualified International Mountain Leader. IML's are not only qualified to ensure the safe management of the group, but are also a source of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, culture and traditions. You can learn more about our guides on the About Us page.
For this trip we will be staying in two accommodations. As you will be collected from the airport and your luggage will be moved along the route by our guides vehicle we ask that you keep your luggage weight to a maximum of 15kgs (33lbs), and ONE bag per person. Also with regard to weight be aware that you may have to carry your luggage to your bedroom, which may involve climbing stairs as not all hotels have elevators. Luggage on wheels is generally a good idea.
The statistics given on your itinerary relating to ascent, descent and distance should be used as a 'general' indication of the effort required. This is a guideline to help you decide if, based on previous experience, your fitness and stamina are correct for the trip. We ask you to note that the even the most modern of technology can show considerable variations in terms of ascent, descent, and in particular distance.
In Portugal, the summers are short, warm, humid, dry, and mostly clear. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 5°Celsius (41°F) to 30°Celsius (86°F) and is rarely below 1°Celsius (34°F) or above 33°Celsius (92°F). In the months we run our trips the temperatures are perfect for getting into the mountains. In May the temperatures range from 15°Celsius (59°F) to 23°Celsius (73.2°F) and in September between 20°Celsius (68°F) to 28°Celsius (82.4°F).
Food On our trips we encourage you to experience local tastes and dishes. If you are vegetarian catering for your diet is not generally a problem. If you have a 'special' diet because of an allergy/intolerance we ask that you make your needs clear on your booking form so we can discuss your requirements with the accommodation. A diet that is not related to an allergy/intolerance or beliefs cannot be catered for. It is simply not possible for mountain accommodation to deal with many variations in diet while providing meals for groups.
In addition, if you have an allergy/intolerance we would suggest you bring/purchase suitable snacks as a supplement to the picnic lunches. At times finding gluten free bread, for example, can be an issue. If you would like to discuss the suitability of a trip for a vegan diet, gluten or lactose intolerance please contact us. We request that you do not CHANGE your dietary requirements during the trip as we will have pre-ordered your meals.
Water If the accommodation has a problem with the water supply they will post a sign over the tap indicating that you must not drink the water, otherwise it is normal to drink from the tap. Hotels - It is not uncommon for restaurants to charge for tap water at the evening meal. If this is the case then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost. Mountain Huts - If your trip features a stay in a mountain hut/refuge and the tap water is not potable then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost of bottled water at the evening meal. Sparkling water is not included in this option and any cost should be covered by you.
Plastic credit or debit cards or smartphone pay systems are increasingly accepted throughout the areas where we run trips. Some countries, such as Norway, are moving towards a cashless society. However, in Europe, in the mountain areas where we run trips, a small amount of cash in the local currency is useful. For example, if you stop at a family-run mountain cafe or farm they may not accept cards or smartphone systems, and cash will be necessary. We recommend having enough cash in the local currency to pay for a few snacks and drinks. Whether to bring cash or not is at your own discretion.
A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. We suggest keeping your passport in your rucksack, and a paper copy of your passport in your luggage. If your trip does not include luggage support carry a paper copy with you, but separate from your passport. You should check passport requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting, paying attention to your citizenship. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.
NEW European Travel Regulations 2026 If you are travelling to Europe you may be impacted by a change to travel regulations. In the last quarter of 2026, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorisation system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. It is your responsibility to check for updates with regard to the introduction date.
We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country
If your trip involves staying in a mountain refuge/rifugio/hut a slimline and lightweight 'battery pack' can be useful for recharging phones etc. This type of accommodation will generally have electricity, but it may be limited in supply, and it is not always possible to charge items.
If you would like help preparing for your adventure you could consider booking a Quick Fix session with personal trainer Kate Brown. This is aimed at those who want to get ready for any of our Summer activities. Your booking with Kate will involve a 45 minute 1:1 video consultation and action plan. You can read more about her ethos and experience here. We also offer free training videos on our YouTube channel - the following are aimed at those who hike in summer, and continue to do so in winter on snowshoes:
Tracks and Trails pays guides/instructors a fair and appropriate fee for their professional service. If you feel your guide/instructor has provided an excellent service that went 'above and beyond' then it is at the discretion of each guest whether to tip or not. Guests will often give a tip of between 2 - 5 per cent of the total value of their trip. It is entirely up to you and any gesture will no doubt be appreciated no matter the size.
Before booking consider whether you expect to be in the appropriate physical condition on the date of your departure to allow you to fully participate in and enjoy your holiday. If you have any doubts because of an illness or injury it would be advisable to check with your doctor. We advise you always carry your insurance documents with details of the Emergency Medical telephone number for your insurance provider, and your policy number.
GHIC For UK residents travelling to an EU country you should obtain and bring your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC gives access to state healthcare in Europe either free or at a reduced cost. The GHIC is not a substitute for medical travel insurance.
EHIC If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you should apply for a GHIC.
We feel strongly about protecting the environment and do not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We would ask that you arrive with a ‘water bottle’ or ‘hydration system’ that can be used repeatedly. We operate a zero tolerance for rubbish, and would ask you to remove all items from the mountain, this includes toilet tissue, and those items you consider to be bio-degradable.
The waste water in mountain huts, also known as refuges/rifugios, often runs into nearby streams and rivers with a potential impact on the eco-system, though in many places steps are now being taken to avoid this. Whether or not your trip involves staying in a mountain hut we would nevertheless recommend you consider nature friendly sunscreens which only contain mineral UV-blocking ingredients such as oxide, and titanium dioxide.
Working across international boundaries, and with various currencies means the price of our trips can change overnight. We have undertaken to guarantee that once you have paid your deposit the price of your trip is fixed. The website price may increase due to currency fluctuations, but we guarantee that the price advertised on the date of your booking will be maintained.
We believe in team work, and enjoy working with other small high quality companies. All our trips are organised by Tracks and Trails, but you may be joined by guests from other companies. Partners are carefully selected to ensure they reflect our ethos and standards. By working with other companies your chosen holiday may reach its minimum number earlier, allowing us to guarantee the trip and give you the go-ahead to book your travel. We guarantee that companies with whom we work will offer the same price package. If you have any questions about this policy contact us.
On this trip there may be the possibility to swim in rivers or the sea. We ask that you consider the impact which sunscreen products have on the environment and remove any excess sunscreen before going into the water. You could consider nature friendly sunscreen which only contain mineral UV-blocking ingredients such as oxide, and titanium dioxide. Any swimming is undertaken at your own risk. We carry no responsibility for any decision by you to enter the water.
We do not include lunches in your trip fee for various reasons, the most important of which is food waste. Most people have particular tastes and requirements for 'trail' or 'hill' food and it is better you purchase your own snacks rather than throw away items from the picnic lunch which we would supply. Lunches on our trips are 'picnic' style lunches, in other words you take a packed lunch with sufficient snacks, food and fluid to sustain you throughout the day. Buying snacks and trying local specialities is a great way to inter-act with local people and to practise your language skills.
If there is the possibility of lunch being taken at a restaurant/farm/cafe beside the trail, your guide/instructor will advise you of this. Each evening you can order a picnic/sandwich from your accommodation, or your guide/instructor will advise you of options such as a local shop or market. In all cases we would ask you to settle any 'bill' for lunch or drinks the evening before you depart, and not in the morning when there may be a queue.