Algarve Seaside self-guided hike tour

Stage 1 - 15 km/9 mi

Perched on a cliff, the whitewashed village of Cacela Velha offers breathtaking views of the Algarve's eastern coast. Explore its small church, ancient fort and olive-lined paths. Descend to the coast, crossing the dunes that protect the wetlands, and visit the traditional fishing village of Cabanas. On your way back to Tavira, you will pass salt pans where artisans harvest salt using traditional methods. Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife, which perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Stage 2 - 13 km/8 mi

Your adventure continues in Junqueira, following the Great Route of the Guadiana. Take the chance to explore the marshes of Castro Marim and Vila Real de Santo António, a haven for birds and biodiversity. It's a great place to see lots of different kinds of aquatic birds migrating and nesting. In Castro Marim, visit the hilltop castle and star-shaped fort, surrounded by charming white houses with intricate chimneys. Finish in Vila Real de Santo António, a town rebuilt by Marquês de Pombal after the earthquake of 1755. Its geometric streets and Pombaline architecture invite a leisurely stroll.

Stage 3 - 17 km/11 mi

Experience the fishing village of Fuseta, traditional fishing and seafaring village where golden beaches meet clear waters. If you desire a quiet getaway, cross to Fuseta Island, located in front of the town but only accessible by boat. Then explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park, an important stop for migrating birds from Northern Europe and Africa. It is also a sanctuary for several other birds, especially flamingos. This Natural Park is famous for its seahorses and the Portuguese Water Dog. Before returning to Tavira, learn about traditional salt harvesting, by walking alongside the saltpans where artisans still harvest sea salt using traditional methods, including the prized Fleur de Sel.

Stage 4 - 17 km/11 mi

Explore the diverse habitats of the Ria Formosa, with the possibility of spotting various species of marine birds. Starting near the Pontal pine forest, one of the Algarve's few coastal forests, the trail follows the border between the land and the lagoons of Ria Formosa. Ludo, north of the salt marshes where the flamingos roam, is an excellent place to see herons and cormorants. Cross the lagoon and salt marshes to reach a bird observatory, perfect for spotting waterfowl such as the Purple Swamp Hen. As you continue, the path offers views of the Ancão peninsula and its dunes. In summer, Mediterranean and European pond turtles can be seen. The trail ends with views of Quinta do Lago and its luxury villas.

Stage 5 - 12 km/7 mi

The Headlands Trail invites you to enjoy expansive views as you walk along the cliff tops. Over time, wind and waves have shaped the landscape, creating coves with beaches, arches, caves, and sea funnels that mark your path. On clear days, the views stretch all the way to Sagres, over 40 kilometres to the west. Along the route, visit the Torre da Lapa, a 16th-century watchtower that once guarded against pirate attacks. Keep an eye out for crows, warblers, and seabirds. At Torrados beach, the Leixão da Gaivota stone funnel is a protected nesting site for Cattle Egrets and Little Egrets, as well as a resting spot for other seabirds.

Stage 6 - 20 km/12 mi

Embark on the iconic Trail of the Seven Hanging Valleys, voted one of Europe's best in 2019. The path, with its pristine beaches, is the perfect place to stop and enjoy a swim while you take in the stunning views. The “Seven Hanging Valleys” are remnants of ancient river mouths, shaped over time by erosion. Seasonal streams have carved the coastline, creating dramatic cliffs, caves, and algares—vertical pits formed by the dissolution of limestone. As you walk, the wind and waves reveal the coastline’s natural sculptural beauty. At several beaches, you can take a small boat tour through the caves, including the renowned Benagil Cave.

At the end of your tour, we will arrange your transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule.