‘Explore the West Algarve’ is an 8 day guided walking tour, based in Lagoa.
We have selected a mix of walks through coastal, mountain, and inland scenery that will present us with different facets of this beautiful area and its diverse landscape.
We have selected a mix of walks through coastal, mountain, and inland scenery that will present us with different facets of this beautiful area and its diverse landscape.
The varied geology of the area helps produce a rich diversity of scenery from granitic mountains to dramatic limestone escarpments and sea cliffs; this diversity is complemented by the local flora and fauna that flourish in the equable climate of mild, sunny winters and long, hot summers. All this, combined, makes walking here fascinating.
Silves, view from the Castle
From the “classic” sections of the Algarve coast with its perfect sandy beaches and rugged headlands of Portimão to the splendorous old towns like Silves and Lagos, the walks in this tour take us to all the right places so that we may discover the huge welcoming heart of the Algarve.
Our varied offer ranges from the verdant hills around the small town of Monchique where we have fine views over the surrounding hillsides to the small local villages where working life continues as it has for centuries. Around here carob and olives are cultivated on farms and smallholdings, along with oranges and other citrus fruit, pomegranates, almonds, and an abundance of other produce.
West Algarve, Silves walk
Our search for the hidden gems of the Western Algarve continues as we reach Sagres in the edge of the Parque Natural da Costa Vicentina, the most south-westerly point of Europe where there is a chance to appreciate and most certainly view the abundant birdlife on one of the most important migratory routes of spring and autumn.
Sagres, Cape St Vincent
Our center for this week is Lagoa. Historic records show that in the past, the area was occupied by the Arabs that settled around a small lagoon whose marshes were dried to create fertile lands and housing. The potential of the region of Lagoa contributed decisively to the economic development of the area, nowadays based on agriculture, fishing, small industry, and tourism. It is also famed for wine production, with its soft and fruited wines gathering fans all over the world.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival
Fly to Faro and transfer to Lagoa. If time allows, an introductory walk will be offered.
Our walking day program starts in the traditional village of Estômbar, in the West Algarve. Along the fertile valley of the River Arade, perfumed with the orange blossom scent, we follow quiet tracks and paths, enjoying the impressive natural landscape.
On the way, we visit the ecological park Sítio das Fontes, one of Algarve’s hidden gems, teeming with birdlife. Throughout the park, we find the largest limestone springs in the Algarve and an old mill house.
Our walk ends in Silves, a historical city, and the ancient capital of the Moorish Algarve, where we’ll have time for a relaxed lunch and to sightsee.
Today we head into the hills of the Serra de Monchique. Our walk offers panoramic views of some of the most beautiful parts of the Algarve.
The mountainous area of the Serra de Monchique stands in complete contrast to the rest of the Algarve. This is a green wooded area, decked in cork, chestnut, pine, and eucalyptus trees.
There are rivers, small streams, and refreshing springs. The valley floors are rich and fertile, yielding an abundance of fruit and vegetables. It is no wonder this area is often called “the garden of the Algarve”.
Today we´ll be presented with a fantastic coastal walk taking in the superb sandy beaches and dramatic headlands between Alvor and Portimão, including the much-photographed beach at Praia da Rocha, one of the best in the Algarve.
The rock strata are particularly varied and very colorful, from white limestone to red sandstone. These different rocks support a wide variety of flora and, in spring, there are impressive displays of wildflowers.
We continue our coastal theme with a spectacular walk starting from the small village and resort of Luz.
On this walk we follow a coastal path to Lagos, visiting on the way Ponta da Piedade where the famous sea caves are to be found and visited by many small boats carrying visitors from nearby Lagos.
The walk finishes in Lagos and we will have time to sightsee in this attractive town that was an important Roman settlement called ‘Lacobriga’. A variety of ancient Roman & medieval ruins remains, including the old slave market.
Distance: app. 11km/6.8mi; Ascent/descent: 260 m/-263 m; Highest point: 95m
Barao de Sao Joao
Day 6 – Barão Villages
Today we head inland for a walk that takes in the villages of Barão de São João and Barão de São Miguel.
These charming, rural, and peaceful villages are characterized by the typical white houses with a colored border around the windows and doors.
This and the traditional Algarve chimneys demonstrate the many years of Moorish occupancy of the area.
Our final day on the western Algarve fittingly culminates in Sagres, the most westerly town in the Algarve.
This area of intensely dramatic cliffs, opening onto a vast horizon of sea and sky, was the last sight of Europe for the explorers setting forth on their fearsome voyages beyond the horizon.
We finish our walk-in Cabo de S. Vincente, whose spectacular cliffs were once believed to be the end of the world.
Shared ensuite room with a traveling companion of the same sex
Single supplement available with a surcharge
Extra nights available on request
Meals
7 buffet breakfasts at the Hotel
7 Dinners with drinks included
Transport
Meet & Greet Airport Transfer to the hotel on the first day – group transfer
Transfer from the hotel to the airport on last day – group transfer
All transports to walks and activities (as outlined) with dedicated driver and vehicle
Additional transfers are available on request at an extra cost
Tour Leaders
Dedicated English speaking local tour leader
The tour leader will assist and guide the group throughout the holidays, handle all the arrangements and other needs that might arise, making sure that you don’t have to worry about planning your days and you can enjoy your holiday
Each evening, your tour leader will discuss the details and program for the following day
Walks and Activities
Walks according to program
Exclusions
Any services not listed as included
Flights to and from Portugal
Meals, tips/gratuities, baggage, or personal insurance (except as outlined)
Admission fees to castles & attractions or events (except as outlined)
Personal expenses
Supplements
Guide services inside monuments
Insurance
You must be adequately insured to join our Guided walking tours Portugal and Self-Guided tours in Portugal holidays. We do not insist that you insure with us but we require that you are adequately insured for the nature of your holiday.
BeCool Travel has partnered with WorldNomads.com to keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com Travel Insurance is designed for independent and adventurous travellers, with coverage for overseas medical expenses, cancellation, baggage, and other expenses.
Please consult our Travel Insurance page, where you’ll be able to get more detailed info about insurance requirements and an immediate quote for your trip.
