Rambling in The West Algarve

This walk in centred on the Alvor estuary. This protected natural haven contains a wide array of habitats. The walk uses quiet paths and lanes to take you through a variety of landscapes from salt marshes, farmland, pastures and orchards. It’s great for birdlife observation, so pack your binoculars.

Contemplate the ever-changing shades of blue and green along the secluded inner lagoon, as well as the beautiful Rocha Delicada (‘Delicate’ or ‘Elegant Rock’), an ochre promontory formed during the Miocene period. Embedded in its calcareous rock face, it is possible to detect some marine fossils from this remote period, mainly composed of oyster, scallop and clam specimens.

The walk finishes near the attractive village of Mexilhoeira Grande. If there is time before the train back to Portimão enjoy a stroll through the village.

• Walking time: 2h00
• Ascent/ Descent: +-21m
• Approx. Km: 8km/ 4.97mi

From Ferragudo´s Light House follow a stunning coastline westwards to Portimão & Praia da Rocha. We suggest visiting the charming and very traditional village of Ferragudo before continuing into Portimão itself to finish at the stunning Praia da Rocha.

• Walking time: 2h15
• Ascent/ Descent: +33m/ -30m
• Approx. Km: 9.3km/ 5.77mi

This imaginatively designed walk follows the inland rolling hillsides just westwards from Portimão. This area, hidden from normal tourism, gives an insight into the traditional Algarvian way of life as you walk through ancient farmland, smallholdings and the “dry” orchards so typical of this area, to finish in the attractive village of Mexilhoeira Grande.

• Walking time: 3h00
• Ascent/ Descent: +92m/ -113m
• Approx. Km: 12km/ 7.45mi

This is an ideal opportunity to relax and enjoy the attractions of the Algarve. You can walk/tour independently, or visit local places of interest. From Portimão there is a wide variety of sightseeing available (we can advise and/or recommend options according to your interests). Keen bird-watchers may wish to visit Sagres to the West, or the Ria Formosa, in the East Algarve.

Today we offer a fantastic coastal walk taking in the superb sandy beaches and dramatic headlands between Alvor and Portimão, including the much photographed beach at Praia da Rocha, one of the best in the Algarve.

The rock strata are particularly varied and very colourful, from white limestone to red sandstone. These different rocks support a wide variety of flora and, in the spring, there are impressive displays of wild flowers.

• Walking time: 2h15
• Ascent/ Descent: +-87m
• Approx. Km: 9.2km/ 5.7mi

A walk through gentle countryside to the salt pans on the Alvor Estuary with its abundant bird life. The walk parallels the extensive Meia Praia beach where, at any time, you can drop down to the sea for a rest and a swim. Crown the day with a visit to Lagos with its beautiful waterfront and old historic centre.

• Walking time: 2h30
• Ascent/ Descent: +17m/ -32m
• Approx. Km: 10km/ 6.2mi

Individual departure or extra days.

At convenient time transfer to Faro Airport or Faro Train station.