Walking the Western Algarve

Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)

Ascent: 350ft (105m)

Our easier walk begins in the charming village of Porto de Mós village, known for its vast golden-sand beach. We'll set off on a scenic cliff-top hiking trail that leads to Ponta da Piedade.

After marvelling at the far-reaching coastal views, we'll continue walking along the boardwalks to reach the old quarter of Lagos. This historic town sits at the mouth of the Bensafrim River and bears remnants of Phoenician, Carthaginian, Roman, and Moorish architecture. If time allows, stop by the beautiful Santo Antonio church, also known as the golden church thanks to its impressive Baroque gilt work. After a short break we’ll return to the hotel on foot.

Distance: 8.5miles (14 km)

Ascent: 650ft (200m)

The harder walk option today starts in pretty Praia da Luz, a small village set around a sandy bay, sheltered from the Atlantic by towering cliffs. From here, we'll climb to the Rocha Negra headland, a unique local natural feature of volcanic origin from 150 million years ago.

Take in the views as we follow the cliff tops, before descending into Porto de Mós village. From there, we'll follow the same route as option 1 above, passing through Ponta da Piedade and Lagos on our way back to the hotel.

Distance: 7.5 miles (12 km)

Ascent: 170ft (50m)

This walk begins from beautiful Cape St Vincent, known by the Romans as Finis Terrae - the End of the World. The jagged cliffs here rise up to 70 metres above the waves below and form the most south-westerly point of Portugal and of mainland Europe.

Following clifftop paths used by local fishermen for centuries, our walk passes first by Beliche Fortress before reaching the bigger, and more impressive Fort of Sagres. Built to protect the town from coastal invasion, this 15th century fort sits on a blustery outcrop that has had religious significance since Neolithic times. We’ll then continue along the coast, completing our journey in the centre of Sagres.

Distance: 10 miles (16 km)

Ascent: 300 ft (90 m)

Our harder option today starts at the dramatic Telheiro Beach, the southernmost beach on the west coast of the Algarve.

After taking in the stunning scenery of wild open ocean from atop the cliffs, we’ll walk along the Fishermen's Trail, part of the Vicentina Route, until we arrive at beautiful Cape St Vincent. From this point, we follow the same route as option 1, back to the centre of Sagres.

Distance: 6 miles (9.5km)

Ascent: 1410ft (430m)

After an hour’s drive, we’ll arrive in Alferce, a quaint village nestled in the landscapes of Monchique. We’ll begin our walk by following the boardwalks that cross Barranco do Demo before a steady ascent that leads to the archaeological site of Cerro do Castelode Alferce - an Islamic fortification which was probably erected in the 9th century AD. 

Our onward path offers stunning views over the Demo Valley, with small glimpses of the sea, and later, the Odelouca and Arade dams. After a winding descent, we arrive at another junction of Barranco do Demo, where we cross the stream and begin our steady ascent back to Alferce.

Distance: 10 miles (16. 5 km)

Ascent: 2200 ft (670m)

Our harder option follows the same route as option 1 to the top of Cerro do Castelo de Alferce. From here, we'll head towards the village of Monchique. This region has been renowned since Roman times for its thermal springs and waters thought to have healing powers.

Using centuries-old dirt paths, we'll cross part of the Monchique Mountains through a magnificent stretch of cork-oak forest. Along the way, we'll pass alongside Picota, Monchique's second-highest peak, which reaches 773 metres above sea level.

Distance: 6miles (9.5km) 

Ascent: 490ft (150m) 

Our short option begins at Amoreira Beach. Walking south of the Aljezur stream, we’ll follow the Fishermen's Trail – a coastal path used by locals to access the beaches and fishing grounds. Sculpted by wind, sea, and sun, the natural landscape is a sight to behold here. Towards the end of our walk, we’ll pass the ruins of Arrifana Fortress, before reaching the picturesque seaside village of Arrifana.  

Distance: 11miles (18kms)

Ascent: 1145ft (350m) 

Today’s longer walk will start in Alzejur and make a steady ascent to the castle for a panoramic view over the estuary of the Alzejur River. We’ll enjoy some time in the town of Alzejur before heading west along the stream and arriving at the coast, following the path to reach Arrifana's beach.

Distance: 4 miles (6km)

Ascent: 270ft (85m)

We start our walk at the wonderful Marinha Beach viewpoint, the first of many attractive lookout points over the limestone rock formations and natural arches that make this trail an experience to remember.

The path is not technically difficult, but there are a few places where the terrain is slippery, so caution is advised. The trail passes the Alfanzina Lighthouse and rises above Carvalho Beach. Our walk ends at the lovely Centeanes Beach, backed by majestic, golden cliffs.

Distance: 6.5 miles (10km)

Ascent: 450 ft (140m)

Today’s longer option follows the same route as option 1 but continues beyond Centeanes Beach toward the Carvoeiro cliffs.

On the way, we’ll see the impressive rock formations known as Algar Seco and the seventh valley, Vale Covo. Our walk ends on the stunning Carvoeiro waterfront, where we will have chance to rest and enjoy the views with a well-earned drink.