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The Rota Vicentina is a long-distance footpath which opened in 2013 and represents a successful eco-tourism initiative to develop low impact tourism in a relatively untouched region of Portugal. The trail connects Cape St Vincent, Portugal's most south-westerly point, to the village of Odeceixe, where it splits into two trails; the Historical Way which heads inland and the Fishermen's Trail which follows the coast to Porto Covo. This trip follows the Fishermen's Trail from Porto Covo to Odeceixe. To the south of the bustling capital of Lisbon awaits a contrasting landscape of wild beauty, where tourists rarely visit despite endless beaches and authentic fishing villages. This is the Alentejo region, covering a third of Portugal's land mass but just 4% of its population. Following this dramatic coast where wildflowers and butterflies keep company with just a handful of hikers, there is ample opportunity to take a swim or a rest break overlooking the endless ocean. In the evening, enjoy carefully handpicked accommodation where your hosts take pride in the cuisine and culture of the region and where delicious seafood and delectable wine is standard.
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27kg of CO2-e PP per day
(161kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive in the picturesque fishing town of Porto Covo
Make your own way to the first hotel in Porto Covo, or we can assist with a transfer from Lisbon on request (ask for our rates). Porto Covo is a picturesque resort town located on the western Alentejo coastline, with whitewashed cottages, cobbled streets and pretty squares, and surrounded by some of the finest beaches of central Portugal.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Walk to Vila Nova de Milfontes along white sand beaches (6-7hrs)
On your first day's walk you will head south, following the Alentejo coast along the vast sand dunes area of Ilha do Pessegueiro, Aivados and Malhão beaches. You'll discover small deserted coves. The terrain today is constantly sandy and there are some moderate climbs and descents, but the diversity of the beaches you pass will surprise you. Before reaching Vila Nova de Milfontes, there are stunning views of the mouth of the river Mira. Overnight in Vila Nova de Milfontes. Distance: 19km/11.8mi, ascent +540m/1772ft, descent -425m/1395ft
Meals: B
Day 3
Continue along rugged cliffs to Almograve (5hrs)
This stage combines isolated beaches, cliffs and vegetation. The trail often runs parallel to the coast, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Leaving Vila Nova de Milfontes, you can walk or avoid the first few kilometres and cross the river by boat (not included). The natural vegetation covering the hillsides attracts a variety of bird and small mammal species. At low tide you will be able to see the marshes on the river bends, which are partially submerged and covered with reeds. Continue along rugged cliffs to Almograve, where you will stay overnight. Distance: 15km/9.3mi, ascent +275m/902ft, descent -279m/915ft
Day 4
A scenic walk to the white village of Zambujeira do Mar (6-7hrs)
Today you will walk past small fishing harbours and reddish sand dunes, all while delighting in the scent of pine tree forests and the sight, seen nowhere else in the world, of storks nesting on the cliffs. The cliffs you will see during this part of the journey, despite being exposed to the salty ocean winds, are the nesting site for over twenty species of bird! These include Jackdaw, Shag, Common Kestrel, Rock Dove, White Stork, Peregrine Falcon and Black Redstart. This afternoon you will arrive in the white village of Zambujeira do Mar - your destination for today. Distance: 21km/13.1mi, ascent +473m/1552ft, descent -474m/1555ft
Day 5
Enjoy spectacular ocean views on your way to Odeceixe (6hrs)
Today is another interesting walk, offering a combination of coastal landscapes and rural areas. Along the way you will pass the beaches of Alteirinhos, Carvalhal, Machados and Amália. You'll find a natural fishing harbour at Azenha do Mar. A real highlight of today is the stunning views of Odeceixe beach seen from the majestic Ponta em Branco. Overnight in Odeceixe, located at the mouth of the river Seixe. Distance: 19km/11.9mi, ascent +605m/1985ft, descent -623m/2044ft
Day 6
Day at leisure to relax at the beach or optional walk (3-4hrs)
Today you have the choice of spending the day at leisure or taking a short walk along the Odeceixe beach circuit. The circuit takes you along the coast on fishermen's trails. You'll walk among the dunes, passing the Seixe river and enjoying views of yesterday's walk. Overnight in Odeceixe. Optional walk distance: 9km/5.6mi A picnic lunch can be ordered from the hotel if you choose to do the optional walk. Allow EUR10-15 per person, payable locally. Ask for details on arrival at the hotel.
Day 7
Trip concludes
The trip concludes after breakfast in Odeceixe.
What's included
What's not included
GRADE 4 - this trip involves walking between 3 and 7 hours per day over undulating terrain, often on the beach and on sand, with some short steep ascents and descents. Daily distances range from 9-20km. We do not recommend this trip for anyone who suffers from vertigo. The trip is graded moderate to challenging and is considered suitable for active people who have a good level of fitness.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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