A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Explore the undiscovered trails of southwest Portugal’s Rota Vicentina, a 70km unspoilt long distance path along the coast and through remote villages. The Rota Vicentina is split into two routes, the Fisherman’s Trail and the Historical Way, and we’ll discover both!
The Algarve
Long Distance Paths
Coast & Islands
Landscape
Feb
Mar
Jun
Oct
Nov
Dec
Average group size: 12-14
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
This Grade 4 walking holiday follows the highlights of the long distance Rota Vicentina path that travels up Portugal's Atlantic coast. This holiday includes walks at a moderate pace over undulating terrain and may include an element of sightseeing as well. Walks are generally between 6 miles and 12 miles a day with ascents and descents between 200m and 300m. You'll follow inland tracks as well as coastal paths. Some walks will be at the higher end of grade 4, more like grade 5 walks, along sandy paths and beaches, and over rocky terrain which can be challenging. Some paths are along the top of steep coastal cliffs. Time will be spent on quiet beaches or villages exploring a quieter side to a well-known country. The maximum altitude reached on this holiday is under 500m.
Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.
Overview
Offering 70 miles of wild Atlantic coastline and inland vistas of deep valleys, mountain ridges and forests of pine and oak, this undiscovered region is perfect for nature lovers. Southwest Portugal’s Rota Vicentina’s long distance coastal path starts in Santiago do Cacem and finishes at Cape of St. Vincent, once known as the edge of the world. The trails support diverse habitats, alive with endemic plant life and numerous animal and bird species. The Rota Vicentina is split into two routes, the Fisherman’s Trail and the Historical Way, and you'll discover both! Spend a week exploring and discovering the unspoilt and wild southwest coast of Portugal.
Follow the highlights and carefully chosen sections of the path. The Historical Way is the longer of the two paths and takes you between villages, through Portugal’s agricultural heartland, past forests of cork and oak, through flower filled meadows and between green valleys. By comparison, the coastal Fisherman’s Trail, which forms most of the walking trails on your holiday, winds its way along the dramatic coastline, above the rolling Atlantic waves offering cooling breezes, superb seascape views and majestic cliffs.
Springtime graces the landscape with flower-filled meadows, wild oregano, and asparagus that adorn the banks of crystal-clear rivers weaving through the pristine western Portuguese scenery. Fields of sweet potatoes, maize, and tomatoes accompany us as we unveil the secrets of this lesser-known region of Portugal. Throughout your journey, you'll have ample opportunities to explore quaint villages, deserted beaches, and marvel at the mesmerizing crash of the Atlantic waves.
The western coast of Portugal is wild, and the small villages are secluded, a stark contrast to the bustling Algarve. Accommodation options in these remote villages can be limited and modest, making it a unique opportunity to explore this remote Portuguese route as a group. You'll stay in a handpicked hotel in Porto Covo, a small fishing village along the Alentejo coast and the initial stop for many Rota Vicentina hikers. Your second centre is Aljezur, a small market town in the Algarve. During the winter months, many hotels close for the winter, so you'll stay in Sagres for your second centre, a remote town located on the western tip of Algarve. Please check individual dates for more information.
If you are interested in this holiday, why not extend your stay with our 14 night holiday Portugal's Algarve Way & Wild Coast.
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
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Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Meals
Accommodation
After arriving into Faro airport, transfer by coach to your hotel in Porto Covo.
Transfer Time = 2h
Meals
Accommodation
Your itinerary is expected to follow the daily schedule outlined below but please bear in mind that the order of the days may be amended, or walks substituted, due to weather conditions, attraction opening times, public transport timetables or changes beyond our control.
Distance
Ascent/Descent
The Fisherman’s Trail takes you from Porto Covo along vast sand dunes, past the small island of Ilha do Pessegueiro located a couple of hundred metres off the beach. In the distance catch a glimpse of the Fort of Pessegueiro, built on the island. This 16th century fort was built to protect the Portuguese coastline. Pass the wide and wild beaches of Aivados and Malhao. In spring, the plant life in this region of Portugal blooms, illuminating the coastline with a kaleidoscope of colours. Some of the plant species are indigenous to this coastline. Your walk will take us past sheltered sandy beaches, alongside transparent blue waters and along dramatic cliffs towards Vila Nova de Milfontes.
Opt out point is at 2.5 miles / 4km and 5.5 miles / 9km.
Meals
Accommodation
Distance
Ascent/Descent
The Historical Way takes you through quiet and peaceful landscapes surrounded by small farms as far as the eye can see. Orchards full of olive, orange and lemon trees decorate the landscape and we cross fields of fruit and vegetables. The scent of wild aromatic herbs such as lavender, thyme and rosemary fill the air. Streams criss-cross through the fields full of cattle, a mosaic of natural beauty. Start in Cercal do Alentejo, a tranquil village almost untouched by tourism and walk through the beautiful landscape to Porto Covo.
There is no opt out point today.
Meals
Accommodation
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Start your walk a little to the south of Vila Nova de Milfontes, a peaceful fishing village, located along the Alentejo coast on the mouth of the River Mira. The surrounding hills attract a variety of bird species and the marshes alongside the rivers are home to different aquatic species and mammals. Follow the trail to Almograve, a traditional Portuguese village surrounded by rugged cliffs, incredible sand dunes and wild Atlantic waves.
There is no opt out point today.
Meals
Accommodation
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Follow gently undulating tracks with the tranquil Mira River for company as you walk between the azure sea and rolling green hills. Be surrounded by vibrant colours and walk amongst impressive forests of diverse species, including ash and willow. The riverbanks and forests are decorated with a sea of scented plants, some medicinal such as Genista tridentata, Oregano and Wild Asparagus. Cross crystal clear streams and hope to see otters, birds and dragonflies.
Opt out point is at 5 miles / 8km.
Today move to your final centre of Aljezur.
Meals
Accommodation
Odeceixe is a beautiful seaside town within the nature park of the Southwest Alentejo and Vincentine Coast.
Distance
Ascent/Descent
This wonderful coastal walk starts in a colourful sea-side village and passes many quiet secluded golden beaches on the way to the natural fishing harbour of Azenha do Mar. Outstanding panoramic views are our companions today, particularly over Odeceixe beach. Wetlands filled with wildlife decorate the landscape as the Fisherman’s Trail and Historic Way collide.
Opt out point is at 6.5 miles / 10km.
Meals
Accommodation
Cape St Vincent is the most south westerly point of Europe, a must see when visiting Portugal.
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Today explore the final section of the Rota Vicentina. Vila de Bispo is a quintessential village in the Algarve, with narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses with colourful exterior decor and a peaceful atmosphere. It is the last town before reaching Cape St Vincent, the most south westerly point of Europe. Dramatic coastal scenery stretches before us on our trail. 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. It was here that Prince Henry the Navigator established his fortress and began the “age of discoveries” sending ships to explore the world. This land is associated with an abundance of explorer’s history and pirate stories. You may even be lucky enough to spot migratory birds nesting in the rugged cliffs.
There is no opt out point today.
Meals
We bid farewell to Portugal's undisturbed southwest and the Rota Vicentina. We transfer back to Faro airport for our return flight to the UK.
From (GBP)£1,849
Departure dates for your selected tour
13th Oct 2024 - 20th Oct 2024 (7 Nights)
23rd Feb 2025 - 2nd Mar 2025 (7 Nights)
23rd Mar 2025 - 30th Mar 2025 (7 Nights)
1st Jun 2025 - 8th Jun 2025 (7 Nights)
12th Oct 2025 - 19th Oct 2025 (7 Nights)
Meals
Accommodation
After arriving into Faro airport, transfer by coach to your hotel in Porto Covo.
Transfer Time = 2h
Meals
Accommodation
Your itinerary is expected to follow the daily schedule outlined below but please bear in mind that the order of the days may be amended, or walks substituted, due to weather conditions, attraction opening times, public transport timetables or changes beyond our control.
Distance
Ascent/Descent
The Fisherman’s Trail takes you from Porto Covo along vast sand dunes, past the small island of Ilha do Pessegueiro located a couple of hundred metres off the beach. In the distance catch a glimpse of the Fort of Pessegueiro, built on the island. This 16th century fort was built to protect the Portuguese coastline. Pass the wide and wild beaches of Aivados and Malhao. In spring, the plant life in this region of Portugal blooms, illuminating the coastline with a kaleidoscope of colours. Some of the plant species are indigenous to this coastline. Your walk will take you past sheltered sandy beaches, alongside transparent blue waters and along dramatic cliffs towards Vila Nova de Milfontes.
Opt out point is at 2.5 miles / 4km and 5.5 miles / 9km.
Meals
Accommodation
Distance
The Historical Way guides you through serene and peaceful landscapes surrounded by small farms as far as the eye can see. The scenery is painted with orchards teeming with olive, orange, and lemon trees, creating a vibrant tapestry, and fields adorned with a variety of fruits and vegetables. The air is infused with the sweet fragrance of wild aromatic herbs, including lavender, thyme, and rosemary, creating an olfactory symphony. Start in Cercal do Alentejo, a tranquil village almost untouched by tourism and walk through the beautiful landscape to Porto Covo.
There is no opt out point today.
Meals
Accommodation
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Begin your walk a little to the south of Vila Nova de Milfontes, a peaceful fishing village, located along the Alentejo coast on the mouth of the River Mira. The surrounding hills attract a variety of bird species and the marshes alongside the rivers are home to different aquatic species and mammals. Trace the trail leading to Almograve, a traditional Portuguese village embraced by rugged cliffs, breathtaking sand dunes, and the untamed fury of the Atlantic waves. This scenic journey promises a harmonious blend of coastal charm and the rich biodiversity that graces the Alentejo region.
There is no opt out point today.
Meals
Accommodation
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Follow gently undulating tracks with the tranquil Mira River for company as you walk between the azure sea and rolling green hills. Be surrounded by vibrant colours and walk amongst impressive forests of diverse species, including ash and willow. The riverbanks and forests are decorated with a sea of scented plants, some medicinal such as Genista tridentata, Oregano and Wild Asparagus. Cross crystal clear streams and hope to see otters, birds and dragonflies.
Opt out point is at 5 miles / 10km.
Today we move to our final centre of Sagres.
Meals
Accommodation
Odeceixe is a beautiful seaside town within the nature park of the Southwest Alentejo and Vincentine Coast.
Distance
Ascent/Descent
This wonderful coastal walk starts in a colourful sea-side village and passes many quiet secluded golden beaches on the way to the natural fishing harbour of Azenha do Mar. Outstanding panoramic views are our companions today, particularly over Odeceixe beach. Wetlands filled with wildlife decorate the landscape as the Fisherman’s Trail and Historic Way collide.
Opt out point is at 6.5 miles / 10km.
Meals
Accommodation
Cape St Vincent is the most south westerly point of Europe, a must see when visiting Portugal.
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Today explore the final section of the Rota Vicentina. Vila de Bispo is a quintessential village in the Algarve, with narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses with colourful exterior decor and a peaceful atmosphere. It is the last town before reaching Cape St Vincent, the most south westerly point of Europe. Dramatic coastal scenery stretches before us on our trail. 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. It was here that Prince Henry the Navigator established his fortress and began the “age of discoveries” sending ships to explore the world. This land is associated with an abundance of explorer’s history and pirate stories. You may even be lucky enough to spot migratory birds nesting in the rugged cliffs.
There is no opt out point today.
Meals
We bid farewell to Portugal's undisturbed southwest and the Rota Vicentina. We transfer back to Faro airport for our return flight to the UK.
From (GBP)£1,699
Departure dates for your selected tour
1st Dec 2024 - 8th Dec 2024 (7 Nights)
16th Nov 2025 - 23rd Nov 2025 (7 Nights)
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
Porto Covo is a small fishing village, located along the Alentejo coast and is the first stop for many hiking the Rota Vicentina. This sheltered little village is surrounded by rocky cliffs, white sandy beaches and rolling dunes, providing shelter from the Atlantic waves and winds. The charming old centre is decorated with whitewashed houses, pastel coloured window and door borders, and cobbled narrow streets. Porto Covo has a relaxed atmosphere and is home to a selection of local restaurants, bars, cafes, shops and other services. During the winter season, the town can be a little quieter as there may be less tourists and you may find some shops have shorter opening hours.
You'll stay in the Porto Covo Hotel located just a short walk from the main village and the beach. The path from the hotel to the main centre of Porto Covo is usually lit at night but we do recommend that you bring a torch as it can be dark even if it is lit. Our hotel is small and simplistic but is selected for its central location for the Rota Vicentina. There is a delightful outdoor pool, a small bar and a games room. The small breakfast room is quirky with an outdoor seating area during the warm summer months.
The Porto Covo Hotel offers a mix of rooms from studios, apartments and rooms, all very similar and the same standards so you will be allocated one of these. All rooms usually include double and twin beds, and single rooms are usually double or twin for sole use. Rooms are very simplistic with wooden furnishings and terracotta coloured décor. Facilities include:
Please note that there are no tea/coffee making facilities in the hotel rooms.
Aljezur is a small market town with typical Portuguese whitewashed houses and tiny cobbled streets, located in the Algarve region of Portugal. The surrounding rugged scenery is unspoilt and untouched by tourism, very different to the lively southern Algarve. This particular part of the coast and Aljezur are well known for its delicious grilled fresh fish and is located in a valley famed for growing sweet potatoes. A sweet potato festival called Festival da Batata-doce is celebrated in Aljezur at the end of November every year. Many of the local restaurants serve desserts made from sweet potato!
You'll stay in the traditional Hotel Vale da Telha, a short 10 minute drive from Aljezur, and a five minute drive from the beach of Arrifana. The hotel is selected for its central location to the Vicentine coast natural park and the western beaches. This charming Mediterranean style hotel is small and cosy, with a living room area, garden, swimming pool, plus a bar and rooftop terrace. The restaurant is open for breakfast each morning.
Stay in simply furnished twin bedded rooms. Single rooms are usually twin for sole use. Room facilities include:
Sagres is a remote village located on the western tip of Algarve, surrounded by wilderness and extraordinary rugged scenery with sheer cliffs and Atlantic waves. Sagres has a relaxed atmosphere and which attracts those with a love of the outdoors or surfing. There are large beaches, all facing different directions, so the surfing opportunities are plentiful. The village is remote but is home to a small selection of local restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops. Due to its location, Sagres is well known for serving a variety of delicious fish, so be sure to try some seafood! During the winter season, the town can be a little quieter as there may be less tourists and you may find some shops have shorter opening hours.
We stay in the traditional Pousada de Sagres Hotel, just a short five minute stroll from the beach. Its clifftop location provides incredible panoramic views across the Atlantic. Perhaps enjoy a game of tennis on the hotel’s courts (equipment can be rented at a charge), relax in the spa area or take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool. There is also a bar area, a variety of smaller rooms relaxing areas and a highly rated restaurant.
We stay in simplistic double and twin-bedded rooms. Single rooms are usually twin for sole use. Room facilities include:
Please note that there are no tea/coffee making facilities in the hotel rooms.
Trip Information
This Grade 4 walking holiday follows the highlights of the long distance Rota Vicentina path that travels up Portugal's Atlantic coast. This holiday includes walks at a moderate pace over undulating terrain and may include an element of sightseeing as well. Walks are generally between 6 miles and 12 miles a day with ascents and descents between 200m and 300m. You'll follow inland tracks as well as coastal paths. Some walks will be at the higher end of grade 4, more like grade 5 walks, along sandy paths and beaches, and over rocky terrain which can be challenging. Some paths are along the top of steep coastal cliffs. Time will be spent on quiet beaches or villages exploring a quieter side to a well-known country. The maximum altitude reached on this holiday is under 500m.
Local Transport Costs
In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.
Optional Excursions
At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.
Holiday Budgeting
As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.
Currency in Portugal
The currency in Portugal is the euro. We recommend you take some euro cash with you until you reach an ATM as credit cards may not be accepted in some towns and rural areas so please ensure you always have cash with you.
Tipping
In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.
Tour Leaders
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Leader's Evening Briefing
Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.
We fly from London to Faro Airport and return. On arrival into Faro, our coach transfer to the Porto Covo is approximately 2 hours. On departure, our return coach transfer from Alezjur or Sagres (December) to Faro airport is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.
Some holiday dates offer regional flight options on this holiday but due to the travelling time to our resort we will operate only one transfer vehicle. This may mean a wait at the destination airport in one or both directions.
We’ll travel by coach during the week. Some transfers may be longer than others, and some transfers can take an hour to reach the start and finish of the walk. A couple of walks may be directly from the hotel.
Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements
If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.
Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.
If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.
Although airport/station transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport/station, depending on your arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.
Please be aware that you must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight/train arrival to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point or independent travel arrangements to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.
Hotel Transfers
When you book a flight or rail inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport/station and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.
Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents
If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
European Passport Advice
If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.
Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:
For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.
Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.
Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.
Breakfasts and dinners are included in the holiday price. Breakfasts will be taken in the hotel restaurants.
We eat dinner at local restaurants where wine and soft drinks are also included. Dining in local restaurants allow us to enjoy an authentic experience and sometimes lively atmosphere in a traditional Portuguese restaurant along with local diners.
Portuguese dishes in hotels and local restaurants are usually created using locally sourced fresh ingredients, and mostly consist of soup, meat or fish, vegetables and potatoes. Portugal is famous for its fresh fish and usually it is caught, cooked and eaten the same day!
Your hotels are selected for their close locations to the main town centre and local restaurants so on some evenings you will be able to walk to local restaurants, on others transport may be provided. During the quieter winter months, many local restaurants close for the season. Therefore, you may eat in the hotel more and you may eat in the same restaurant more than once as availability of open restaurants could be limited. Please be aware that Porto Covo is a very small centre, so there may only be one restaurant open during your stay.
Lunches are not included. We are visiting remote areas so lunches will most likely be taken as picnics or in cafes in the villages we visit.
Footwear
Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.
General Kit List
Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.
If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:
This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.
Travel Documents Checklist
Documents and Information to take with you:
Electricity in Portugal
Electricity is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
Maps, Guidebooks & More
Many local libraries stock a selection of travel guides and books which may offer you more information. Apart from any books available in local libraries, the internet is now an excellent resource for information about holidays destinations. You may find the below websites, books and programmes useful.
Maps of the areas we visit (1:200 000 scale) are available locally and at specialist map shops in the UK.
Lonely Planet Portugal - by Lonely Planet
Bradt Travel Guide to Alentejo - by Alex Robinson
Portugal Official Tourism Website
The Map Shop
If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:
The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England
Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com
If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.
Weather
Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:
Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Health Advice for Portugal
No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Portugal.
You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK.
You may wish to consider immunisations against Tetanus.
Dengue fever exists in Portugal; please take normal precautions against mosquito bites.
Further Travel Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
If you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you are unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland, please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
EHIC & GHIC Cards
Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.
It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.
For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.
When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!
Responsible Travel
We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.
Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.
Mobile Phones
Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.
Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.
In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.
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Useful Information
Capital
Currency
Language
Time Difference
Flight duration
Visas and Passports
January
Avg. Rain: 109mm
February
Avg. Rain: 93mm
March
Avg. Rain: 75mm
April
Avg. Rain: 66mm
May
Avg. Rain: 52mm
June
Avg. Rain: 26mm
July
Avg. Rain: 12mm
August
Avg. Rain: 16mm
September
Avg. Rain: 44mm
October
Avg. Rain: 91mm
November
Avg. Rain: 111mm
December
Avg. Rain: 120mm
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