Fisherman's Trail Northern Half
Duration: 7 days
Trails: T2 trails
Distance: 15 - 20 km / 9 - 12 mi per day
Ascent per day: 0 - 250 m / 0 - 820 ft ascent per day
> Hike the northern part the Fisherman's Trail
> Spend your nights in charming fishing villages
> Wander across wild, deserted beaches and explore its hidden caves
> Accommodation before & after is included
The Fisherman's Trail is a coastal walking route, created by linking up a maze of trails traditionally used by fishermen along the southwest coast of Portugal. The route is part of a 750 km network of pathways called Rota Vicentina. The full Fisherman's Trail runs for just over 200 km along the wild edge of the Atlantic. The sandy trails pass some of the most beautiful beaches and sea cliffs in Portugal. The entire area is protected from mass-scale development by law and most of the route has kept its natural beauty and authentic coastal villages.
> Spend your nights in charming fishing villages
> Wander across wild, deserted beaches and explore its hidden caves
> Accommodation before & after is included
The Fisherman's Trail is a coastal walking route, created by linking up a maze of trails traditionally used by fishermen along the southwest coast of Portugal. The route is part of a 750 km network of pathways called Rota Vicentina. The full Fisherman's Trail runs for just over 200 km along the wild edge of the Atlantic. The sandy trails pass some of the most beautiful beaches and sea cliffs in Portugal. The entire area is protected from mass-scale development by law and most of the route has kept its natural beauty and authentic coastal villages.
We created this shorter version of the Fisherman's Trail. In 5 stages you hike from Porto Covo to Aljezur along the unspoilt Atlantic coast. The hiking itself is fairly easy, although the soft, sandy paths make it slightly harder. Distances are on average 19km a day, so you'll be on the trail for most of the day.
Itinerary
Day
1
Arrival day
Welcome to Portugal, you will arrive in Porto Covo and receive a warm welcome at your accommodation for the night. During your stay, you can relax after your trip and before starting your adventure on the Fisherman's Trail. Have fun!
Calmaria Guesthouse (Porto Covo)
Day
2
Porto Covo - Vila Nova de Milfontes
Duration: 05:15 h
Distance: 18.3 km / 11.4 mi
Ascent: 130 m / 427 ft
Descent: 130 m / 427 ft
Today, your path will follow the shoreline. Traverse the expansive area of sandy hills along the Ilha do Pessegueiro, Aivados, and Malhão beaches, where you may stumble upon secluded coves and caves. The landscape ahead will consist mainly of sand dunes, yet the many beaches you encounter will leave you in awe. Spend the night in Vila Nova de Milfontes.
Villa Eira (Vila Nova de Milfontes)
Day
3
Vila Nova de Milfontes - Almograve
Duration: 04:15 h
Distance: 16 km / 9.9 mi
Ascent: 150 m / 492 ft
Descent: 150 m / 492 ft
As you embark on today's journey, you'll be stunned by the breathtaking views overlooking Vila Nova de Milfontes, the Mira River, and the point where the river drains in the ocean. When leaving Vila Nova de Milfontes, you have the option to either walk the initial kilometers across the bridge or take a small ferry across the river (fare not included). The lush natural vegetation serves as a magnet for an array of bird species and small mammals. Follow the rugged cliffs until you reach Almograve, where you'll spend the night.
Almograve Beach Hostel (Almograve)
Day
4
Almograve - Zambujeira do Mar
Duration: 05:00 h
Distance: 19 km / 11.8 mi
Ascent: 160 m / 525 ft
Descent: 160 m / 525 ft
During today's journey, you'll pass by charming fishing harbors, wind-swept sand dunes and fragrant pine tree forests. One of the unique sights that will captivate you is the presence of storks nesting on the cliffs, a spectacle found nowhere else in the world. Despite being exposed to the persistent winds of the ocean, these cliffs serve as the nesting grounds for many bird species. As the afternoon unfolds, you'll reach the picturesque white-washed village of Zambujeira do Mar, which is your destination for today.
Rosa dos Ventos (Zambujeira do Mar)
Day
5
Zambujeira do Mar - Odeceixe
Duration: 05:10 h
Distance: 18.9 km / 11.7 mi
Ascent: 220 m / 722 ft
Descent: 240 m / 787 ft
Today's journey promises another fascinating trek along the scenic clifftops. As you traverse the path, you'll encounter a series of beautiful beaches including Alteirinhos and Machados. Along the route, you'll also come across a natural fishing harbor at Azenha do Mar. However, the true highlight of the day awaits you at the majestic Ponta em Branco, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Odeceixe beach.
Bohemian Antique Guesthouse (Odeceixe)
Day
6
Odeceixe - Aljezur
Duration: 06:25 h
Distance: 23.2 km / 14.4 mi
Ascent: 190 m / 623 ft
Descent: 180 m / 591 ft
Continuing your journey from Odeceixe, you'll maintain a southward course along the coastal path, meandering through the picturesque coastal area. After a long day on the trail you will eventually arrive at the enchanting Moorish village of Aljezur, steeped in rich history and cultural heritage.
Guesthouse a Lareira (Aljezur)
Day
7
Departure day
After breakfast, you are free to go. This is the end of your adventure on the Fisherman's Route. We hope to see you again soon.
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FAQ
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