- Dramatic cliffs, gold-sand beaches and quiet trails
- Excellent bird-watching opportunities and year-round mild climate
- Stay overnight in authentic whitewashed villages, including Sagres
- Reach Cabo de San Vicente, the most southwesterly point in Europe
Walking Portugal's Coast and Beaches
8 Days
from
8 Days
from
Walking & Trekking
Itinerary
Vila Nova de Milfontes Sagres
Fly to Lisbon and transfer to the seaside town of Vila Nova de Milfontes
Those of us on the group flight touch down at Lisbon and will be driven for approximately two hours to the seaside town of Vila Nova de Milfontes in the heart of the beautiful Alentejo coastline. 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 the remote location, it has an extensive selection of restaurants and a lively nightlife, making it a perfect base for the first two days of the tour.
Start in the seaside town of Vila Nova de Milfontes
This trip starts in the seaside town of Vila Nova de Milfontes, in the heart of the beautiful Alentejo coastline approximately two hours from Faro and 2hr 30min 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, deserted beaches. Despite the remote location, it has an extensive selection of restaurants and a lively nightlife, making it a perfect base for the first two days of the trip.
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 views of the Mira River meeting the ocean, with the small, white-washed 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, farmland stretches right to the ocean, at others the imprint of human habitation is local, non-commercial fishing or small Stone Age quarries hidden among the dunes.
Between March and October, you can spot the many types of swift – alpine, pallid and common – that nest along this coast. Interestingly, swifts spend more than 90 percent 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 small village of Almograve, perfect for an unhurried afternoon stroll or peaceful pause before we return by private transfer to Vila Nova de Milfontes.
Walk from Cabo Sardão to Zambujeira do Mar along dramatic high cliffs
Small fishing harbours, dunes, the scent of pine tree forests and the sight, seen nowhere else in the world, of storks nesting on the cliffs make today’s walk truly special. We start with a short transfer (approximately 20 minutes) to Cabo Sardão lighthouse, which was peculiarly 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 high cliffs exposed to the constant salty ocean waves and winds, and a favourite nesting spot for more than 20 bird species. These include: the jackdaw; shag; common kestrel; white stork; and the peregrine falcon, the fastest recorded animal in the world, reaching speeds of up to 185mph (300kph) when diving. We 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 tiny non-commercial fishing harbour, before concluding the walk in the sleepy seaside village of Zambujeira do Mar and its wonderful beach. In the afternoon, we transfer to Arrifana where we stay for the next three nights.
Coastal walk to Odeceixe; admire fascinating rock and cliff formations and some of Portugal’s best beaches; transfer to Vale da Telha
This morning, we transfer from Arrifana to Carvalhal beach (approximately 35 minutes), the start of today’s walk. The cliff face on this stretch of the walk is of particular interest. It is composed of schist and greywacke, which results from the consolidation of sand, clay and volcanic ashes accumulated on the bottom of an ocean more than 300m years ago
This whole coastal region is believed by many to have a particular energy, and it was here the fado diva Amália Rodrigues sought refuge and inspiration for her songs. Along the walk, we may also spot traces of nocturnal mammals, including the Egyptian mongoose (locally known as escalabardo), weasel, beech marten ( papalvo), badger, genet and rabbits. Before reaching Odeceixe, we take a break on Ponta em Branco (White Summit) so named for the colour of the sediments that form its top, marking the border between the Alentejo and Algarve regions. This is considered one of the most scenic points in the entire region with 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.
Free day; enjoy an optional circular walk to Arrifana beach or other activities such as surfing and horse riding
Today is a free day to choose from the many optional activities available in the area. You may decide to go on a guided visit to Arrifana beach, Ponta da Atalaia, Monte Clérigo, and Aljezur (payable locally). Alternatively, you may book a surfing class or a horse-riding excursion along the spectacular coastline. While your tour leader will not accompany you on your free day, they can help you book the optional activities. A self-guided walk around Arrifana is also possible (7.5mi/12km loop).
Circular walk around Carrapateira; enjoy ocean views and the sandy beaches of Bordeira and Amado; transfer to Sagres
Today we travel further south and transfer (approximately 30 minutes) to the village of Carrapateira, the start of today’s short circular walk. Along the circuit, we come across various viewpoints with superb vistas of the sandy beaches of Bordeira and Amado plus the ruins of an ancient Islamic fishermen’s settlement. On the first part of the trail, we walk through undulating dunes carpeted by lush vegetation and aromatic wild plants including thyme, yellow amaranths, rosemary, lavender, crowberries, blue pimpernel and sea lavender. We then walk along the limestone cliffs for most of the trail and may get the opportunity to spot cormorants, a wintering bird and expert angler that consumes almost 2lb (1kg) of fish per day. In the afternoon, we transfer (approximately 20 minutes) 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.
Final cliff walk to Cabo de Sao Vicente, the southwesternmost point in continental Europe; afternoon optional visit to Sagres Fort
Surrounded by foaming Atlantic breakers, Cabo de Sao Vicente marks the most southwesterly 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 coastal scenery, we follow a wild trail along sandy paths and gorse-strewn meadows to the very edge of the Iberian peninsula. Setting off from our hotel, we head to the start point of our walk, near Beliche Beach. We set out across towering cliffs and ravines covered with native vegetation. We pass by the golden beach of Beliche then, after a short section inland, Telheiro beach, a place of extraordinary geological interest thanks to the rock composition of the cliffs. The last section of the path continues along the clifftop before a memorable arrival at Cabo de Sao Vicente where we find a lighthouse, museum and small bar offering wonderful photo opportunities. It’s only a five-minute transfer 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. You may decide to book an optional dolphin-watching excursion along the coast (weather and season dependent).
End Sagres
This trip ends in Sagres in the morning of Day 8. If you’d like to spend a little more time in this beautiful part of Europe, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Transfer to Faro; fly to London
Those on the group flight travel to Faro airport by private minibus in the morning (approximately 1hr 30min) for the inbound flight to London. Alternatively, you may decide to extend your trip by a few days and relax on some the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve. Please contact your sales representative for a quote on post-tour accommodation.
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Comfortable hotels
We use three different hotels, all with a swimming pool.
The hotels normally used are:
Vila Nova de Milfontes (two nights): On the main beach avenue, Hotel HS Milfontes Beach enjoys amazing views of the Mira River bay and has an outdoor pool and gym.
Vale da Telha (Aljezur) (three nights): Hotel Vale Da Telha is simple but very cosy, offering a relaxed atmosphere, modern rooms, and an outdoor pool with a spacious sundeck.
Sagres (two nights): Memmo Baleeira Hotel Sagres has an outdoor pool with magnificent Atlantic Ocean views, plus a spa, heated indoor pool, Turkish bath and sauna.
Bookings within 30 days are subject to availability and may incur a supplement of approximately £165 / US$265 / 315 Canadian dollars per person.
Reviews
Add your own reviewBeautiful views
I nearly didn’t go on this trip as I prefer longer walks with more challenge, however I’m really glad I went! Who can fail to enjoy themselves where there’s a beautiful view everywhere you look, the weather is wonderful (22 degrees on average over Easter when I was there) and the paths and walking is varied. Even if you’re used to doing level 4 or higher graded walks I still think there’s much to enjoy and yo’d be missing out by omitting it because it’s a level 2. The guides (Luis and Francisco) were helpful without being bossy, knowledgeable without labouring the point and just really easy company.
Most Inspirational Moment
'Inspirational' is a bit of a strong word isn't it? Being by the coast and seeing amazing views with perfect blue skies and turquoise seas day after day is pretty wonderful. The hotel in Sagres was pretty nice too!
Thoughts on Group Leader
As another review states it was great to see how well known and well liked Luis was wherever we went. He really believes in investing in the local communities and businesses that we visited and they clearly respect and like him for this. Even on the day off Luis and Francisco went out of their way to make sure we were all doing what we wanted to do and were thoughtful and kind beyond what I've experienced on other trips. Francisco is also very capable in an understated way and knows so much about fauna and flora but doesn't over do it (i.e. we didn't have to sit through a botany lecture every day but nonetheless learnt some interesting stuff). They were a great pair of leaders.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Wear sunscreen and SPF lipbalm! It's windy so you don't always feel how intense the heat is but the bathroom mirror lets you know later just how much you caught the sun... Also, there are no kettles in the rooms in the first two hotels.
Amazing vacation!
Hikes along the coastline provided stunning views, coastal breezes, sounds of waves and pristine beaches. Francisco shared his extensive knowledge of the fauna and birds of the region and engaged the group in discussions on the environment. We enjoyed great food and wine and the visits to the Vicentino Vineyard and Junior Jacques Distillery were highlights!
Most Inspirational Moment
My favourite moment was seeing two Peregrine Falcons in flight.....
Thoughts on Group Leader
Both tour guides, Francisco and Ines were amazing! They were professional and knowledgeable and they took the time to get to know each hiker and provided individualized attention in what mattered most to each. A great time was had by all!
Walking in the sun
Having spent a couple of days in Lisbon arranged by ourselves prior to the start of the holiday, we joined up with the group tour back at Lisbon Airport at the start of the trip. We thoroughly enjoyed the week walking along the cliff tops and down to the beaches; the group was so friendly and dynamic. This was a full group with 15 people which really added something with people from other parts of the UK, US, and Canada. Francisco and Ines were amazing and probably two of the best leaders we have ever had on a group holiday; they were very thorough with their briefings and couldn’t do enough for us all. Their knowledge of the flora and fauna was very extensive, and what they weren’t sure of they looked it up instantly in a reference book! The three hotels we stayed in were all very good quality. The weather was fantastic, sunshine every day with a cooling breeze.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing the storks nesting along the cliffs perched on pinnacles of rock in what seemed to be precarious positions; raising their young.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Both Francisco and Ines were very professional, very caring about the group getting the most from their holiday and sharing their knowledge of the local area and the wildlife. Their choices of restaurants when we wanted to have group dinners were excellent. The number of photographs they have shared with the group both during the trip and since we returned has been fantastic and it has been great to see the close ups that they were able to take with their ultra professional kit!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be reasonably active in terms of walking; there are some considerable distances walking on sand. Wear a hat as the cliff tops are quite exposed, so best to use plenty of sunscreen.
Suggestions
The standards of breakfast at each of the three hotels was very high and we were well set up for walking each day along with the packed lunches provided.
Beaches, cliffs, sand and storks
A really enjoyable holiday in a beautiful location. It was fun to have the opportunity to visit different areas and staying in multiple locations meant that we got to see more of the area. The organisation was super smooth in every aspect. The coastline is very unspoilt with the most amazing views, and the beaches seemed never ending; one more beautiful than the next. The storks perched on the ends of the rocks are just amazing and with binoculars and zoom lens we could get really close to them. Our expert guides were passionate and enthusiastic about this lovely region and brought it to life with their knowledge of the landscape and history.
Most Inspirational Moment
It's really difficult to pinpoint a particular moment - the holiday as a whole was just so enjoyable. The three hotels in the different villages were lovely - very well chosen and all with great facilities, but the one in Sagres was a particularly nice treat. Restaurants were also great, including the recommendations for the free day / evenings. We had great packed lunches, delicious and sourced locally.
Thoughts on Group Leader
We had two group leaders - Francisco and Ines - and they were fantastic in making sure that everything ran smoothly in the background - nothing seemed too much trouble and they were super patient looking after us all. I was very impressed at their knowledge of the area and we gained a lot from the walks from Francisco's expertise in all things flora and fauna, not to mention the birds. We all learnt a lot about the challenges to the landscape and stories of local history which brought the place to life.
Advice for Potential Travellers
I would highly recommend this trip. The walks are not over long, and are well paced, but you do need to be fit to enjoy them. The stops and lunch breaks were well placed, with opportunities to swim at points at glorious beaches. Walking on some of the dunes was quite hard work! so walking boots or shoes are definitely the best footwear.
Suggestions
I'd like to thank Francisco and Ines for their friendly, calm and caring support. They looked after us with charm and enthusiasm and nothing seemed to be a problem. We were a large group but they went out of their way to make sure that we were all looked after well and with real warmth.
Portugal’s Coast and Beaches
An excellent week walking down the south west coast of Portugal. The views were stunning, hotels were comfortable and food was amazing. A special mention for our guides Francisco and Ines who were friendly and knowledgeable, going above and beyond to ensure we all had a wonderful time. The walking is mostly straightforward, but there is some walking across soft sand dunes. Would thoroughly recommend this holiday.
Most Inspirational Moment
The views, and seeing storks and peregrine falcons.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Both Francisco and Ines were two of the best guides we’ve had.
Advice for Potential Travellers
A microfibre towel is useful for drying off after a paddle or swim in the sea. Some people may find a pole useful for some of the rocky sections, although these were not too difficult, also for wading across the river (optional).
Fantastic unspoilt location
The coast of Portugal offers varied terrain and great opportunity for hiking and to be guided by Francisco and Ines made it even better. Their knowledge about the area is extensive and they took time and effort to ensure everyone achieved what they wanted from the trip. I cannot recommend this trip enough – it truly was an amazing week.
Most Inspirational Moment
Nesting storks and dramatic coast line
Thoughts on Group Leader
Very knowledgeable and shared a lot of information. So friendly and ensured everyone had a fabulous time
Advice for Potential Travellers
Just go - don't miss the opportunity to experience this unspoilt area
Sand and Storks - Portugal's Fabulous Coast
A brilliant week hiking Portugal’s stunning south-west coast! Spectacular cliff-top views and fascinating wildlife – from swifts and storks to peregrine falcons. Transport, food and hotels all excellent (especially the hotel in Sagres, wow!). But all made that much more enjoyable and memorable thanks to the extraordinary efforts of our fantastic guides: Ines and Francisco. Their knowledge, professionalism, efficiency and attention to detail was exemplary, going way above and beyond all expectations. Thank you!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Ines and Francisco - both truly excellent.
Fantastic scenery, wonderful guides, charming villages
You can’t imagine how beautiful Portugal’s coast is until you do this trip. The beaches are so scenic and uncrowded. The trails were not difficult and everyone in our group was able to keep the pace. There were adequate stops to enjoy the views and take a swim in the water. Our guides Francisco and Ines were absolutely wonderful. I have a special interest in birds and plants; both were very knowledgeable. They even carried a bird book and a plant ID book. The guides brought a camera with a very long lens, so they were able to share close-ups of the baby storks with our group. The guides were always available on WhatsApp if we had any questions (during our free time). The trip was very well organized; the guides did a lot of work behind the scenes coordinating our drop off and pick up locations. I also really enjoyed the smaller villages we passed through and I was able to get some wonderful photographs. Portugal’s food is fantastic, and the guides helped me to find a restaurant to sample barnacles (highly recommended). The wine and distillery tastings were very enjoyable. I combined this trip with the Highlights of Portugal; it was easy to take a public bus from Lisbon and back again. This was one of my favorite Exodus trips (and I’ve done many) thanks to the competent guides and lovely scenery.
Most Inspirational Moment
Passing by an extremely beautiful section of coast line which looked like the Grand Canyon - if the Grand Canyon was next to an ocean. And our guide Francisco explained the geology of this area
Thoughts on Group Leader
Francisco and Ines were top notch! They get the highest rating from me! Both were very knowledgeable, friendly, and caring. Both were highly organized and always available on WhatsApp. The briefings were very good, as were the shared photographs. I appreciated them carrying the bird and plant ID books on the hike.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Wear hiking boots with ankle support (not hiking shoes). Wear hiking gaitors to minimize sand getting inside of your boots for the first day of the hike (it started out sandy). Bring a wind-proof sun hat and plenty of sunscreen.
Suggestions
Exodus should do more to promote combining this trip with Highlights of Portugal for a two week holiday.
Amazing week in Portugal!
What a stunning coastline to walk, combined with amazing food, wine tasting and brilliant company. The hotels were great too, way above my expectations. What more could you ask for! Our guides Francisco and Ines were fantastic, so knowledgeable and making sure we were safe on our walks. Would definitely recommend this holiday.
Most Inspirational Moment
Too many to choose from! Sitting on a near deserted beach during a walk eating my packed lunch. Spotting Storks in their nests with their baby Storks. Seeing a couple of Peregrine Falcons.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Honestly, Francisco and Ines were the nicest, most caring guides I’ve travelled with. I was a bit wobbly on a couple of parts of the walks and they were always there to help me. They were also taking photos along the way and sharing them with us at the end of the day.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The coastline is beautiful to walk along. Be prepared to walk in some sand which can be a bit more difficult. There were a few parts of the walk which were a bit rocky, but help was always at hand!
Suggestions
To sum up, great guides, spectacular cliffs/beaches/scenery/food/wine/hotels/company!
The Most Fabulous Trip!
This trip went beyond my expectations. I mean I was hoping for a lovely week given that we were walking along the wonderful Portuguse coastline but it delivered beyond my expectations. Seeing the incredible coastline, the huge pristine beaches and the STORKS nesting on the rocks knocked my socks off. And each day was different – different terrain, different flora and fauna – it was a feast for the senses. But what made the trip so very special for me were our two guides – Francisco Simoes and Ines Monteiro – they were incredible! I can’t praise them enough for their care, friendliness, patience and knowledge. They’re a massive asset to the trip!
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing the storks nesting on the clifftops was a showstopper for me. Just breathtaking! After this the vast and stunning Praia do Brejo Largo.
Thoughts on Group Leader
We had two guides - Francisco Simoes and Ines Monteiro - two very special and very personable people. They were easily the best guides I've had on an Exodus trip. Nothing was too much trouble, no question too much, however often it was asked. They were so personable and yet still professional making everything happen seamlessly in the background. They have a passion for showcasing their country and this trip, and it shone through. On the first evening they provided a Powerpoint presentation of the itinerary (I've never had this before on a trip and it was brilliant) and then a glass of bubbles afterwards to break the ice and allow people in the group to get to know each other a bit. Another really nice touch.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be prepared for walking through sand - sounds obvious but for some in the group it was quite hard work. Be aware that they're are two guides so you need to budget for two tips at the end of the week. Also there's a group kitty - we paid 45 Euros each, to take into account a wine and medronho tasting trip, tips for restaurants and some drinks whilst out walking.
Suggestions
Don't even think twice about going on this trip - it's incredible and you will not regret it. I'm still buzzing from it and I can't recommend it enough.
Start
Finish
Availability
Adult Price From
Optional Single Supplement
Saturday Saturday
14 Oct 2023 14 Oct 2023
Saturday Saturday
21 Oct 2023 21 Oct 2023
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 2 spaces left!
Adult Price From NZD 3,449
Optional Single Supplement +NZD 550
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This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 2 spaces left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
04 Nov 2023 04 Nov 2023
Saturday Saturday
11 Nov 2023 11 Nov 2023
Availability Guaranteed (On Request)
Adult Price From Usually NZD 3,449Now NZD 2,979Saving NZD 470 Usually NZD 4,114Now Saving NZD 470
Optional Single Supplement +NZD 550
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This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
09 Mar 2024 09 Mar 2024
Saturday Saturday
16 Mar 2024 16 Mar 2024
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Adult Price From NZD 3,549 NZD 3,549
Optional Single Supplement +NZD 594
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This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
06 Apr 2024 06 Apr 2024
Saturday Saturday
13 Apr 2024 13 Apr 2024
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Optional Single Supplement +NZD 594
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This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
11 May 2024 11 May 2024
Saturday Saturday
18 May 2024 18 May 2024
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Optional Single Supplement +NZD 594
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
14 Sep 2024 14 Sep 2024
Saturday Saturday
21 Sep 2024 21 Sep 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From NZD 3,749
Optional Single Supplement +NZD 594
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
12 Oct 2024 12 Oct 2024
Saturday Saturday
19 Oct 2024 19 Oct 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From NZD 3,649
Optional Single Supplement +NZD 594
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
02 Nov 2024 02 Nov 2024
Saturday Saturday
09 Nov 2024 09 Nov 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From NZD 3,649
Optional Single Supplement +NZD 594
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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Walking Portugal's Coast and Beaches
8 Days
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8 Days
from