Fisherman's Trail Southern Half
Duration: 8 days
Trails: T2 trails
Distance: 15 - 20 km / 9 - 12 mi per day
Ascent per day: 250 - 500 m / 820 - 1640 ft 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
> 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 relatively effortless, 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)
Day
2
Aljezur - Arrifana
Duration: 04:45 h
Distance: 17.3 km / 10.7 mi
Ascent: 250 m / 820 ft
Descent: 260 m / 853 ft
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)
Day
3
Arrifana - Carrapateira
Duration: 05:30 h
Distance: 20.1 km / 12.5 mi
Ascent: 300 m / 984 ft
Descent: 300 m / 984 ft
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)
Day
4
Carrapateira - Vila do Bispo
Duration: 05:50 h
Distance: 20.1 km / 12.5 mi
Ascent: 490 m / 1608 ft
Descent: 430 m / 1411 ft
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)
Day
5
Vila do Bispo - Sagres
Duration: 05:45 h
Distance: 21.8 km / 13.5 mi
Ascent: 180 m / 591 ft
Descent: 240 m / 787 ft
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)
Day
6
Sagres - Salema
Duration: 05:45 h
Distance: 18.8 km / 11.7 mi
Ascent: 270 m / 886 ft
Descent: 290 m / 951 ft
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)
Day
7
Salema - Lagos
Duration: 06:05 h
Distance: 22.1 km / 13.7 mi
Ascent: 370 m / 1214 ft
Descent: 370 m / 1214 ft
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)
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
Excluded
FAQ
Are the Rota Vicentina and the Fisherman’s Trail the Same Walking Route?
Where Is the Fisherman’s Trail?
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