Via Algarviana: Discover the Authentic Portugal on Foot!

The Via Algarviana is a hiking trail spanning over 300 kilometers in the southern region of Portugal, also known as GR13. This route begins in Alcoutim in the east, and over fourteen stages, takes you westward, eventually leading to Cabo de Sāo Vicente, the southwesternmost point of Portugal.

The concept for a long-distance trail in the Algarve had been brewing since the late '90s, and in 2004, the development of the Via Algarviana finally commenced. In 2009, the route was officially opened, and to this day, there is an enthusiastic effort dedicated to maintaining the trails, signage, brochures, and an informative website.

The creation of Via Algarviana was largely funded with European resources, with a significant goal of promoting sustainable tourism in a region facing a declining population. Thanks to its picturesque route and well-marked paths, hikers have the opportunity to intimately explore the culture and nature of the area.

A significant driving force behind the creation of the Via Algarviana is João Ministro. Hailing from the Algarve, he has been engaged in various ecological projects in the region since the 1990s, always with a focus on sustainable (touristic) development. The Via Algarviana fits well into this context because it traverses an area that is relatively unknown, making it deserving of more attention. The Via Algarviana thus serves as a splendid example of ecotourism, proving that the unfamiliar is no longer unloved.

Walking the Via Algarviana is an experience in itself. As mentioned earlier, you'll be strolling through the inland of the Algarve, where it's serene and tranquil. You can let your thoughts roam freely, and along the way, your senses will be awakened by the scents and colors of the surroundings. The daily distances are substantial, but fortunately, the elevation gains are limited. With the right physical preparation and mindset, the Via Algarviana is also suitable for you.

In terms of distances and limited elevation gains along the way, the Via Algarviana can be compared to the pilgrim routes to Santiago. However, you'll notice that it's hotter and drier on this journey than during the Camino, so carrying enough water is a must. One significant advantage of our Via Algarviana package is that your accommodations are arranged, and (part of) your luggage is transported to the next overnight stop.

We do offer other hiking options in Portugal as well. The Fisherman's trail in particular is worth checking out.

The stages of the Via Algarviana take you through the inland regions of the Algarve, not along the coast. Summers in the inland areas are hot and dry, with relatively little shade along the way. Therefore, the best periods for hiking are in the spring and autumn. From February to April, the landscape is in full bloom, and in the fall, the first rains arrive, turning the surroundings lush and green. Additionally, temperatures are not as high as in the summer, although it can still be quite warm until October.

The stages of the Via Algarviana meander through an area known as 'Barrocal.' In this region situated between the Mediterranean coast and the higher inland, the limestone soil and the red Barrocal clay yield bountiful harvests. From vineyards to almond and orange trees, they are abundant.

If you're a fan of delicious food and drinks, the Via Algarviana is the perfect place for you due to its fertile surroundings. Fruits, nuts, and olives are plentiful. There's also a good chance you'll be offered the local firewater, 'Medronho,' at the end of a meal. It's a strong spirit and a true South Portuguese specialty. Fortunately, there's a honey-infused version if you prefer a milder taste, just ask for 'Melosa.'

While hiking the Via Algarviana, you'll come across many forests of cork oak trees, as the region is well-known for its cork production. Beyond cork, the area boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna due to its unique ecosystem. Birds thrive in national parks, and a profusion of trees, shrubs, and herbs grow and bloom.

In addition to the natural beauty along the way, you'll also pass through charming places during the Via Algarviana. They're great for winding down your hiking days. The region is dotted with small villages, spread across farmland, along the coast, or nestled in the mountains. From the former capital of the Algarve, Silves, to the serene Monchique with its water sources (and spa), known already to the Romans, an authentic experience is guaranteed.

In addition to the fourteen stages of the Via Algarviana, there are also connecting routes to and from these stages. Through one of these eleven connections, you can hike to or from your starting point on the Via Algarviana. These connections lead to places where public transportation is available, making it convenient for further travel!

Another delightful extra feature of the Via Algarviana is the supplementary audio routes. These consist of ten short hikes around the stages of the main route. Highly recommended if your legs still feel up to it after a day of walking. While hiking these audio routes, you'll learn about local flora and fauna, as well as history. For instance, in the fifteenth century, the Algarve was a significant launching point for exploratory voyages on the Atlantic Ocean and to the West African coast, often funded by Henry the Navigator. His crews discovered places like Madeira and the Azores from their base in Lagos.

You won't come across large hotel complexes along the Via Algarviana, and that's a good thing. It's worth noting that wild camping is prohibited, and there are no campgrounds along the way, so you can leave your tent at home. The rural surroundings and small villages mean that you'll be staying in modest accommodations on your journey, such as bed & breakfasts or guesthouses. These are often beautifully situated in natural settings or in one of the charming towns along the route.

Faro Airport is the sole airport in the Algarve, and to reach the starting point of the Via Algarviana, you will need to fly to this airport. Many airlines offer daily flights to Faro from various countries. Upon arrival, you can continue to the beginning of the trail in Loulé by train and/or bus. This journey takes approximately one hour from the airport.

At the end of your hike, you can travel back to Faro Airport, or another destination in Portugal or beyond, by bus and/or train. Getting to the airport will require one or two transfers in Pêra or Albufeira. Ultimately, you'll disembark in front of the departure terminal.