Fisherman's Trail Southern Half

Duration: 8 days
Trails: T2 trails
Distance: 15 - 20 km per day
Ascent per day: 250 - 500 m ascent per day
> Hike the southern part the Fisherman's Trail
> Spend your nights in charming fishing villages and fortified towns
> Wander along the Atlantic Coast to the most southwestern point in Europe
> Accommodation before & after is included

The Fisherman's Trail is a scenic path that stretches along the southwest coast of Portugal, connecting various traditional trails used by fishermen. This trail is part of the Rota Vicentina, a network of pathways spanning 750 km. The complete Fisherman's Trail covers a distance of slightly over 200 km, tracing the untamed Atlantic coastline. These sandy paths traverse some of Portugal's most exquisite beaches and seaside cliffs. The entire region is legally safeguarded against mass sclae development, ensuring the preservation of its natural splendor and genuine coastal villages.
We have created a condensed version of the Fisherman's Trail, where you hike in six stages, along the unspoiled Atlantic coast from Aljezur to Lagos. The hiking experience itself is moderate, although the soft, sandy terrain makes it slightly more strenuous. On average, you will cover a distance of 19 km per day, dedicating most of your day to the trail.

Itinerary

Day
1

Arrival day

Welcome to Portugal, you will arrive in Aljezur 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!
Guesthouse a Lareira (Aljezur)
Guesthouse a Lareira (Aljezur)
Day
2

Aljezur - Arrifana

Duration: 04:45 h
Distance: 17.3 km
Ascent: 280 m
Descent: 210 m
From Aljezur, slightly inland, you'll head back to the coast following the course of Ribiera de Aljezur. Once you hit the coast you walk south again along the craggy coast. The day ends in Arrifana, a famous spot among surfers for its great waves.
Utopia Guest House (Arrifana)
Utopia Guest House (Arrifana)
Day
3

Arrifana - Carrapateira

Duration: 05:30 h
Distance: 20.1 km
Ascent: 240 m
Descent: 320 m
Walk along the golden sands of Praia da Arrifana, passing dramatic cliffs and enjoying panoramic ocean views. Quickly the path heads inland and follows the sand dunes and heathland and reaches the coast again at Praia da Bordeira, a wide sandy beach embraced by crashing waves and picturesque cliffs. After crossing the small river you head back inland for a kilometre to reach Carrapateira where you'll spend the night.
Carrapateira Lodge (Carrapateira)
Carrapateira Lodge (Carrapateira)
Day
4

Carrapateira - Vila do Bispo

Duration: 05:50 h
Distance: 20.1 km
Ascent: 540 m
Descent: 480 m
This stage is a little harder as you are climbing more than on other days. The coastline goes up and down and this requires quite some effort. This effort is worth it, walking along the hauntingly beautiful coastline, some of the most stunning stretches on the whole route. The final few kilometers go back inland to Vila do Bispo.
Hotel Mira Sagres (Vila do Bispo)
Hotel Mira Sagres (Vila do Bispo)
Day
5

Vila do Bispo - Sagres

Duration: 06:00 h
Distance: 21.8 km
Ascent: 240 m
Descent: 300 m
Today you walk to an iconic landmark on the European continent, Cabo de São Vicente. This is the extreme southwestern point in Portugal and Europe for that matter. It's a spectacular headland, guarded by a beautiful red and white lighthouse. The direction of walking dramatically changes after reaching this point, and you are now headed straight east towards Sagres. Enjoy your stay in this historical fortified town.
Residência Júlio (Sagres)
Residência Júlio (Sagres)
Day
6

Sagres - Salema

Duration: 05:20 h
Distance: 19 km
Ascent: 320 m
Descent: 340 m
The walk from Sagres to Salema runs along the southern coastline, showcasing the Algarve's golden beaches and impressive cliffs. Enjoy this penultimate stage!
Salema Beach Apartment (Salema)
Salema Beach Apartment (Salema)
Day
7

Salema - Lagos

Duration: 06:20 h
Distance: 22.6 km
Ascent: 420 m
Descent: 420 m
The final leg of what's been an epic journey along the southwest coast of Portugal. Lagos is where the Fisherman's Trail ends. For those with a little extra time we recommend hanging around the Algarve coast to recover and replenish all those calories burned.
Agua Hotels Vila Branca (Lagos)
Agua Hotels Vila Branca (Lagos)
Day
8

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.

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

    You’ll receive access to our trekking app, which serves as your complete digital travel guide for the Fisherman's Trail. Inside, you’ll find everything you need for your trek: route descriptions, hiking maps, navigation support, payment information, and all the key details specific to your journey.

  • 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.

  • Navigation support

    Our trekking app also includes built-in navigation support. With GPS-based maps and offline access, you can follow the trail confidently and stay on route even without mobile signal.

Excluded

  • Traveling to and from

    You have to make your own way to the starting point. The total amount does not include personal transport. This also applies to any transport from the end point of your trail.

  • Transfers

    If you require any form of public or local transport during the trek, it is not included in the package unless stated otherwise. This applies to taxis, buses, cable cars, gondolas, and similar services.

  • Travel Insurance

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

  • Meals

    Meals are not included in the price on the Fisherman's Trail unless otherwise indicated in the inclusive list. Along the way, there are several places to stock up on food and restaurants that lend themselves to a delicious lunch or dinner. These locations are indicated in our travel guide.

FAQ

  • Are the Rota Vicentina and the Fisherman’s Trail the Same Walking Route?

  • When Is the Best Time to Walk the Fisherman’s Trail?

  • Traveling to and from

  • What if the dates I want are not available?

  • If I book now, can I immediately arrange the rest of my trip?

  • How do I know if this trek is right for me?

How to Book

  • Booking

  • Availability

  • Cancellation policy

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