Portugal's Wild Atlantic Coast

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.