Fisherman's Trail Southern Half

Portugal, Fisherman's Trail

6 days

T2 trails / no difficulty markings

Distance: 15 - 20 km per day

250 -500 ascent per day

Overview
Itinerary
What's Included
FAQ

> 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

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

Aljezur - Arrifana

Duration: 05:41 h

Distance: 17.3 km

Ascent: 250 m

Descent: 260 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.

Arrifana

Info

Day

Arrifana - Carrapateira

Duration: 06:34 h

Distance: 20.1 km

Ascent: 300 m

Descent: 300 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

Info

Day

Carrapateira - Vila do Bispo

Duration: 06:57 h

Distance: 20.1 km

Ascent: 490 m

Descent: 430 m

This stage 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.

Vila do Bispo

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.