Rota Vicentina - the Fishermen's Trail

Make your own way to the first hotel in Porto Covo, or we can assist with a transfer from Lisbon on request (ask for our rates). Porto Covo is a picturesque resort town located on the western Alentejo coastline, with whitewashed cottages, cobbled streets and pretty squares, and surrounded by some of the finest beaches of central Portugal.

On your first day's walk you will head south, following the Alentejo coast along the vast sand dunes area of Ilha do Pessegueiro, Aivados and Malhão beaches. You'll discover small deserted coves. The terrain today is constantly sandy and there are some moderate climbs and descents, but the diversity of the beaches you pass will surprise you. Before reaching Vila Nova de Milfontes, there are stunning views of the mouth of the river Mira. Overnight in Vila Nova de Milfontes. Distance: 19km/11.8mi, ascent +540m/1772ft, descent -425m/1395ft

This stage combines isolated beaches, cliffs and vegetation. The trail often runs parallel to the coast, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Leaving Vila Nova de Milfontes, you can walk or avoid the first few kilometres and cross the river by boat (not included). The natural vegetation covering the hillsides attracts a variety of bird and small mammal species. At low tide you will be able to see the marshes on the river bends, which are partially submerged and covered with reeds. Continue along rugged cliffs to Almograve, where you will stay overnight. Distance: 15km/9.3mi, ascent +275m/902ft, descent -279m/915ft

Today you will walk past small fishing harbours and reddish sand dunes, all while delighting in the scent of pine tree forests and the sight, seen nowhere else in the world, of storks nesting on the cliffs. The cliffs you will see during this part of the journey, despite being exposed to the salty ocean winds, are the nesting site for over twenty species of bird! These include Jackdaw, Shag, Common Kestrel, Rock Dove, White Stork, Peregrine Falcon and Black Redstart. This afternoon you will arrive in the white village of Zambujeira do Mar - your destination for today. Distance: 21km/13.1mi, ascent +473m/1552ft, descent -474m/1555ft

Today is another interesting walk, offering a combination of coastal landscapes and rural areas. Along the way you will pass the beaches of Alteirinhos, Carvalhal, Machados and Amália. You'll find a natural fishing harbour at Azenha do Mar. A real highlight of today is the stunning views of Odeceixe beach seen from the majestic Ponta em Branco. Overnight in Odeceixe, located at the mouth of the river Seixe. Distance: 19km/11.9mi, ascent +605m/1985ft, descent -623m/2044ft

Today you have the choice of spending the day at leisure or taking a short walk along the Odeceixe beach circuit. The circuit takes you along the coast on fishermen's trails. You'll walk among the dunes, passing the Seixe river and enjoying views of yesterday's walk. Overnight in Odeceixe. Optional walk distance: 9km/5.6mi A picnic lunch can be ordered from the hotel if you choose to do the optional walk. Allow EUR10-15 per person, payable locally. Ask for details on arrival at the hotel.

The trip concludes after breakfast in Odeceixe.