Fisherman's Trail Northern Half

Portugal, Fisherman's Trail

5 days

T2 trails / no difficulty markings

Distance: 15 - 20 km per day

0 - 250 ascent per day

Overview
Itinerary
What's Included
FAQ

> 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

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

Porto Covo - Vila Nova de Milfontes

Duration: 05:46 h

Distance: 18.3 km

Ascent: 130 m

Descent: 130 m

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.

Vila Nova de Milfontes

Info

Day

Vila Nova de Milfontes - Almograve

Duration: 05:05 h

Distance: 16 km

Ascent: 150 m

Descent: 150 m

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

Info

Day

Almograve - Zambujeira do Mar

Duration: 06:00 h

Distance: 19 km

Ascent: 160 m

Descent: 160 m

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.

Zambujeira do Mar

Info

See entire itinerary

Included

Accommodation

We will arrange your accommodation on the Fisherman's Trail in hotels, inns, and guesthouses. Accommodation will be private in single, double or twin rooms and with en-suite bathroom where possible.
Full travel guide

We will send you on your way with a digital travel guide which includes a route description, interactive Fisherman's Trail hiking maps, and the most important information applicable to your trek.
Baggage Transfer

This trek includes the transfer of your luggage throughout the entire Fisherman's Trail trek. Your bags will be picked up every morning from the hotel lobby and will be driven to your next next accommodation. Baggage transfers allow you to travel lighter during the day and enjoy the walk in a more relaxed manner.
Breakfast

Breakfast is, if possible, included in this trek and it will be provided every morning at your accommodation.

Excluded

Traveling to and from

You have to make your own way to the starting point. The total amount does not include personal transport.
Transfers

Should you need any form of (public) transport on location, this is not part of the trekking package. This includes the use of taxi, bus, cable cars, gondolas etc.
Travel Insurance

Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before your trek.
Lunch and Dinner

Breakfast is, if possible, included in the price of the trek. You can get lunch and dinner at the shops, hotels, and restaurants along the way.