Fishermen’s Trail: Self-Guided Walking in the Algarve

Day 1: Arrival at Faro Airport and transfer to Vale da Telha

Your private driver will meet you at Faro Airport and transfer you west to Vale da Telha, near Aljezur and Arrifana Beach.

Upon checking into your hotel, you will receive a comprehensive documentation kit containing all the necessary information for your self-guided walk.

Afterwards, the rest of the day is free to relax at the hotel or explore the surrounding area. Depending on your arrival time, you may also wish to visit nearby Arrifana Beach. This striking beach lies beneath dramatic cliffs on the western Algarve coast.

Accommodation: Vale da Telha, 2-star hotel
Meals included: None

Day 2: Aljezur → Vale da Telha

Distance: 17.1 km (10.6 mi)
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation (gain/loss): +301 m | -219 m

A short transfer takes you to Aljezur, a historic town of whitewashed houses overlooked by the ruins of its hilltop castle.

From there, the route crosses woodland, farmland and coastal heath before reaching the estuary and sweeping sands of Amoreira Beach. Then, continue towards Monte Clérigo, an attractive beachside settlement and a good place to pause. Afterwards, return to the cliff-top trail.

The final section passes Ponta da Atalaia and the Ribat da Arrifana — a rare 12th-century Islamic fortress-monastery perched above the Atlantic.

Accommodation: Vale da Telha, 2-star hotel
Meals included: Breakfast and packed lunch

Day 3: Vale da Telha → Carrapateira

Distance: 21.8 km (13.5 mi)
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation (gain/loss): +327 m | -402 m

Walk directly from your hotel through open countryside before reaching the Atlantic near the isolated Praia do Canal.

The route follows rugged coastal scenery before turning inland through farmland and native vegetation. As you approach Carrapateira, views open across Bordeira Beach and its vast dune system, one of the most impressive landscapes on the Rota Vicentina.

Next, cross the sandy area behind the beach and continue into Carrapateira. Your driver will meet you there for the return transfer to Vale da Telha.

Accommodation: Vale da Telha, 2-star hotel
Meals included: Breakfast and packed lunch

Day 4: Carrapateira → Vila do Bispo

Distance: 15.6 km (9.7 mi)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Elevation (gain/loss): +319 m | -258 m

Return to Carrapateira and follow the coast towards Ponta do Castelo, where the remains of a medieval Islamic fishing settlement stand above the Atlantic.

Beyond that, the trail continues past Amado Beach and through some of the wildest scenery on the Fishermen’s Trail. Secluded coves, dramatic cliffs and unusual rock formations accompany you south before the route turns inland across hills, ravines and open coastal plains.

By day’s end, the walk finishes in Vila do Bispo, a traditional whitewashed village and your base for the next three nights.

Accommodation: Vila do Bispo, 3-star hotel
Meals included: Breakfast and packed lunch

Day 5: Vila do Bispo → Sagres

Distance: 20.2 km (12.5 mi)
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation (gain/loss): +188 m | -239 m

Leave Vila do Bispo on foot and cross an open, sparsely populated landscape towards the Atlantic coast.

Along the way, look closely at the rock layers near Telheiro Beach. Their dramatic folds reveal hundreds of millions of years of geological history. Afterwards, continue to Cabo de São Vicente, or Cape St Vincent. Here, the lighthouse stands above towering cliffs at the southwestern extremity of mainland Portugal.

From the cape, follow the coastline past Beliche and Tonel beaches towards Sagres. Subject to opening hours and your arrival time, Sagres Fortress is well worth visiting for its maritime history and far-reaching ocean views.

Afterwards, your driver will meet you in Sagres for the return transfer to Vila do Bispo.

Accommodation: Vila do Bispo, 3-star hotel
Meals included: Breakfast and packed lunch

Day 6: Sagres → Salema

Distance: 19.8 km (12.3 mi)
Difficulty: Challenging
Elevation (gain/loss): +355 m | -378 m

A private transfer takes you back to Sagres for the most demanding walk of the programme.

First, pass Baleeira fishing harbour and Martinhal Beach. From here, the coastline gradually changes. The exposed Atlantic cliffs give way to rugged limestone headlands, beaches and sheltered coves — including Barranco, Ingrina, Zavial, Furnas and Figueira.

Although the maximum elevation is low, the repeated climbs and descents make this the hardest stage of the Fishermen’s Trail. Finally, descend towards Salema, a traditional fishing village where narrow streets rise above the beach.

Afterwards, your driver will meet you in Salema and return you to Vila do Bispo.

Accommodation: Vila do Bispo, 3-star hotel
Meals included: Breakfast and packed lunch

Day 7: Salema → Burgau and transfer to Faro

Distance: 6.1 km (3.8 mi)
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation (gain/loss): +181 m | -173 m

After the previous day’s challenging walk, this shorter stage provides a more relaxed conclusion to your Fishermen’s Trail walking holiday.

From Salema, follow the coast eastwards to Boca do Rio, where wetlands, reedbeds and a seasonal watercourse provide valuable habitats for birdlife. The area also contains the remains of a Roman villa once associated with fish processing.

Next, climb to the ruins of the 17th-century Forte de São Luís de Almádena. From there, continue along the cliffs to Burgau, a compact fishing village above a sheltered beach.

Once you’ve had time for lunch or a short exploration of Burgau, your driver will transfer you to Faro.

On arrival, spend the late afternoon exploring Faro’s walled old town, cathedral quarter and marina, with views towards the lagoons and islands of the Ria Formosa.

Accommodation: Faro, 4-star hotel
Meals included: Breakfast and packed lunch

Day 8 – Departure from Faro

After breakfast, it’s time to prepare for your onward journey. If you have time, take a final stroll through the old town of Faro before you leave.

The package does not include a transfer from the hotel to Faro Airport. The airport can be reached independently by taxi, private transfer or local public transport.

Meals included: Breakfast

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Map

Algarve section of the Fishermen’s Trail

What’s included

• 7 nights’ hand-picked accommodation with breakfast;
• 6 packed lunches, prepared by the accommodation, for the walking days from Day 2 to Day 7;
• Luggage transfer between accommodations
  • 2 items per person: one backpack + one suitcase weighing up to 23 kg;
• Private transfers included
  • Arrival: Faro Airport → Vale da Telha
  • First walk: Vale da Telha → Aljezur
  • End of the second walk: Carrapateira → Vale da Telha
  • Start of the third walk: Vale da Telha → Carrapateira
  • End of the fourth walk: Sagres → Vila do Bispo
  • Fifth walk: Vila do Bispo → Sagres, followed by Salema → Vila do Bispo
  • Final walk: Vila do Bispo → Salema, followed by Burgau → Faro
• Touristic taxes in Faro;
• Detailed route notes;
• App with route information for use on a smartphone;
• 24-hour emergency contact number (English-speaking).

What’s not included

• Dinners; lunches other than the six packed lunches included from Day 2 to Day 7; drinks; insurance; departure transfer; personal equipment; personal expenses; and all items not mentioned under “What’s included”.

Walk beyond the best-known stages

Many walking holidays focus on the popular section of the Fishermen’s Trail in the Alentejo. This itinerary begins in Aljezur and explores the less frequently packaged southern section through the wild western Algarve.

Experience remarkable coastal variety

Walk through woodland, farmland, coastal heath, sand dunes and exposed cliff-top landscapes. Along the way, discover vast beaches, secluded coves, unusual rock formations, wetlands and traditional villages.

Reach the southwestern edge of mainland Europe

Approach Cabo de São Vicente on foot and experience the scale and raw beauty of one of Portugal’s most dramatic headlands.

Stay several nights in the same accommodation

Instead of changing hotels every day, the programme uses carefully chosen bases and private transfers. This makes the holiday more comfortable while preserving the experience of walking each section of the route.

Travel with freedom and local support

Walk independently and at your own pace, supported by detailed route information, luggage transport, private transfers and assistance from our local team.

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Walking days: 6

Walking route: Aljezur to Burgau
Total walking distance: Approximately 101 km (62.7 mi)
Daily distances: 6.1 km to 21.8 km

Tour type: Self-guided walking holiday
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, with one challenging stage
Minimum number of participants: 2 people
Solo bookings: Not available

Arrival point: Faro Airport
Arrival transfer: Included from Faro Airport
Luggage transfers: Included
Private transfers: Included as described in the itinerary
Final overnight stay: Faro
Departure transfer: Not included

Accommodation: Vale da Telha: 3 nights | Vila do Bispo: 3 nights | Faro: 1 night
Meals: 7 breakfasts and 6 packed lunches
Navigation: Ride with GPS app and detailed route information

Operating season: 15 September to 15 June
Summer departures: Not available from 16 June to 14 September

The best time to walk the Fishermen’s Trail

This programme operates from 15 September to 15 June.

Spring is particularly attractive, with mild temperatures, longer daylight hours and seasonal wildflowers. Autumn can offer warm conditions and pleasant sea temperatures. Winter, meanwhile, brings quieter trails and clear coastal light, with occasional rain possible.

However, conditions can change throughout the operating season. The western Algarve is exposed to Atlantic weather, so walkers should prepare for strong winds, occasional rain and sudden changes in conditions.

We do not operate this programme from 16 June to 14 September. Much of the route has little or no shade. Therefore, high summer temperatures can make the longer stages uncomfortable or unsafe. In addition, beaches and coastal access points attract many more visitors during this period. This reduces the quieter experience that defines the itinerary.

Walking difficulty and terrain

We grade this walking holiday moderate to challenging. It is best suited to regular walkers with reasonable fitness, good balance and experience on uneven natural terrain.

Daily distances range from 6.1 km to 21.8 km, with generally moderate overall elevation. However, sand, rocks and uneven ground make several stages more demanding than the distance and ascent figures might suggest.

Much of the route follows sandy trails, beaches and dunes. On some stages, sand may account for close to half of the walking distance. However, the exact amount depends on natural conditions and the line of the trail. Soft or shifting sand also requires far more effort than firm ground.

Along the route, you should expect:

• Long sections of soft and compacted sand
• Beach and dune crossings
• Uneven and rocky coastal paths
• Loose stones and eroded ground
• Narrow paths above high cliffs
• Repeated short ascents and descents
• Exposed sections affected by strong Atlantic winds
• Some walking on quiet roads and country lanes
• Long stretches without cafés, shops or easy road access
• Very little shade on several stages

Sagres to Salema is the most demanding stage. It involves frequent climbs and descents over rocky, irregular terrain. As a result, it requires both physical fitness and sustained concentration.

The route also follows high cliffs in several places. There is no climbing involved, but some paths are exposed and may not be suitable for walkers with a severe fear of heights or discomfort near cliff edges.

Navigation and trail markings

Generally, green and blue painted signs mark the Fishermen’s Trail in both directions. These indicate the correct route, changes in direction and paths to avoid.

Despite the waymarking, signs can occasionally fade, get damaged or disappear. Vegetation growth, erosion and landscape changes all play a part. You should therefore use our detailed navigation information. Do not rely exclusively on the painted trail markers.

What to carry while walking

You should carry a comfortable day pack containing:

• Water
• Your packed lunch
• Sun protection
• One hat
• Your waterproof or windproof outer layer
• A warm layer during cooler months
• Any personal medication
• Basic personal first-aid supplies
• Your mobile telephone
• Navigation information
• A power bank and the appropriate charging cable
• Swimwear and a small towel, if you intend to swim
• A small toilet kit containing toilet paper, hand sanitiser, a lightweight trowel and sealable sanitary bags

Water refill points are limited on some stages. Therefore, always carry sufficient water for the distance, temperature and expected conditions.

Swimming safety: Most beaches along the route are not lifeguarded, and Atlantic waves and currents can be extremely strong. Only enter the water when conditions are clearly safe, never swim alone and avoid swimming altogether if you have any doubts about the sea conditions.

Responsible toileting: Facilities are unavailable along many remote sections of the trail. When necessary, find a discreet spot well away from paths, beaches and watercourses. Bury waste properly and leave no visible trace. We strongly encourage you to pack out toilet paper and other hygiene products. Use a sealed bag rather than leaving or burying them.

Recommended footwear and equipment

For most walkers, well-cushioned trail-running shoes with good grip suit this route better than heavy boots. They are lighter, more comfortable on sand and quicker to dry after wet sections. However, walkers who need extra ankle support may prefer lightweight walking boots. Whichever option you choose, your footwear should be comfortable over long distances and suitable for sand, loose stones and uneven coastal paths.

We also strongly recommend lightweight ankle gaiters designed for trail walking or trail running. They keep sand, small stones and debris out of your shoes — especially useful during the longer beach and dune sections.

Walking poles are equally important. They provide real stability on sandy terrain and during the repeated climbs and descents between Sagres and Salema. Some sections also cross the Algarve’s barrocal. Here, clay-rich ground presents little difficulty in dry weather. However, it may become muddy and slippery after rain, particularly in winter and spring. On these sections, walking poles make a genuine difference.

Accommodation

We use carefully selected accommodation in Vale da Telha, Vila do Bispo and Faro. Wherever possible, we choose locally owned hotels and guesthouses for their comfort, character and easy access to the route. In addition, all rooms have private bathroom facilities.

Staying several nights in the same base is one of the itinerary’s main advantages. You pack and unpack less often. Moreover, you have more time to settle into each area.

The exact properties may vary according to availability and your travel dates, and we will confirm full details in your final travel documents.

Meals

Your accommodation serves breakfast every morning. From Day 2 to Day 7, it also prepares a packed lunch for your walk. This is important because several stages cross remote areas without cafés, restaurants or shops. Even when the route passes a beach café or village, opening hours vary with the season. Therefore, always carry your packed lunch and sufficient water.

Evening meals are not included, giving you the freedom to explore the local food scene. Vila do Bispo, Sagres, Salema, Burgau and Faro all offer opportunities to try grilled fish, seafood, regional stews and other Algarve specialities.

Luggage transport and private transfers

Your main luggage travels between accommodation bases while you walk, so all you need to carry each day is a light day pack.

The programme also includes the following private transfers:

• Faro Airport to your first accommodation in Vale da Telha
• Between selected accommodation bases and trailheads
• From the end of selected walks back to your accommodation
• Burgau to Faro on Day 7

Together, the luggage service and private transfers take care of the logistics, leaving you free to focus on the walking.

Responsible walking

The Fishermen’s Trail crosses a protected and environmentally sensitive coastal landscape — please help preserve it by:

• Remain on marked paths, even when the sand is soft. Although walking beside the trail may appear easier, shortcuts across dunes and vegetation damage fragile plants and gradually widen the route.
• Taking all rubbish with you
• Not picking flowers or disturbing wildlife
• Keeping a safe distance from cliff edges and unstable ground
• Respecting temporary diversions, warning signs and local restrictions
• Using water responsibly
• Supporting local cafés, restaurants and other businesses
• Keeping noise to a minimum in villages and natural areas
• Leaving no trace when using the toilet outdoors, and packing out toilet paper and hygiene products

Parts of the coastline provide important habitat for nesting and migratory birds. You may spot wildlife along the way, though we cannot guarantee sightings — always observe animals quietly and from a respectful distance.

Protecting native coastal vegetation

In some sandy sections, walkers have moved off the path to avoid softer ground, gradually creating parallel tracks. Over time, this damages the surrounding vegetation and widens the trail. Please stay on the established route, even when walking on the sand takes more effort.

The invasive ice plant (Carpobrotus edulis), known locally as chorão-da-praia, also spreads along this coastline. If left unchecked, it can quickly smother native vegetation. Therefore, where it is safe and easy to reach, we encourage walkers to spend five minutes each day helping to remove it. However, only do this at least 30 metres away from cliff edges. These areas are highly sensitive due to erosion and exposed soil, and should not be disturbed. Never leave the trail, approach unstable ground or damage other plants to do so.

Simply pull the plant out by the roots and turn it upside down, leaving the roots exposed so it cannot re-establish itself.

This small action protects the coastal ecosystem and gives walkers a practical way to give something back. Please only remove plants you can clearly identify and never approach unstable cliffs or sensitive areas to do so.

Is this the complete Fishermen’s Trail?

• No. The complete Fishermen’s Trail extends along Portugal’s southwest coast. This programme covers its southern Algarve section, from Aljezur to Burgau via Carrapateira, Vila do Bispo, Cabo de São Vicente, Sagres and Salema.

Why does the programme begin in Aljezur?

• Many international itineraries concentrate on the better-known stages between Porto Covo and Odeceixe. Starting in Aljezur allows you to explore the quieter southern section, where the landscape progresses from the wild Atlantic coast to the coves and limestone cliffs of the southern Algarve.

When is the best time to walk this section?

• This programme operates from 15 September to 15 June. Spring and autumn usually offer the mildest walking conditions, while winter brings quieter trails, clear coastal light and the possibility of occasional rain. We do not operate during the hottest summer months.

How difficult is this Fishermen’s Trail walking holiday?

• We grade this programme moderate to challenging. In particular, walkers should be comfortable covering up to 21.8 km in a day over sand, rocks and uneven coastal terrain. Sagres to Salema is the most demanding stage.

Is the route guided?

• No. This is a self-guided walking holiday. You walk independently using the detailed route and navigation information supplied by Portugal Green Walks. You will also have access to local support during the programme.

Is the Fishermen’s Trail well marked?

• Green and blue signs generally mark the route well. However, markings can occasionally fade, become damaged or grow difficult to see. You should always use the navigation information supplied and should not rely solely on the painted signs.

How much walking is on sand?

• Sand is a defining feature of this route and may account for close to half of the distance on some stages. Surfaces range from firm beach sections to soft dunes, so the walking can feel harder than the distance alone suggests.

Are there exposed cliff-top sections?

• Yes. Several stages follow exposed paths above high cliffs. However, there is no climbing involved. Even so, the programme may not suit walkers with a severe fear of heights or discomfort near cliff edges.

Can I swim during the walks?

• There are opportunities to access beaches including Monte Clérigo, Amado, Martinhal and Salema. However, the Atlantic coast can have strong waves, currents and sudden changes in sea conditions. Beaches may not always be supervised by lifeguards, particularly outside summer. Always swim at your own discretion and only when local conditions are clearly safe.

Can the longer walks be shortened?

• Some walks may be adaptable through pre-arranged transfers, depending on the location and vehicle access. This should be discussed with Portugal Green Walks in advance, as many coastal sections have no road access and cannot be shortened at every point.

Are cafés and restaurants available during every walk?

• Not on every stage. Some sections pass through remote landscapes with few or no services between start and finish — which is why we include a packed lunch on every walking day. Always carry sufficient water too, and don’t count on seasonal beach cafés being open.

Are luggage transport and private transfers included?

• Yes. Your main luggage travels between accommodation bases, so you only need to carry a day pack while walking. We also include all scheduled private transfers — between Faro Airport, accommodation bases, trailheads and finishing points. The transfer from your hotel in Faro to Faro Airport on Day 8 is not included.

What type of accommodation is included?

• We use carefully selected accommodation in the Vale da Telha area, Vila do Bispo and Faro — all with private bathroom facilities. The exact properties depend on availability and we will confirm them in your final documentation.

Are meals included?

• Each morning, your accommodation serves breakfast, and from Day 2 to Day 7 it also prepares a packed lunch. Dinners, drinks and any other lunches are not included.

Can I add extra nights?

• You can add extra nights in Faro or other locations, subject to availability. In particular, Faro rewards a longer stay — the walled old town, cathedral quarter and nearby Ria Formosa natural park all make for a rewarding extension.

What footwear should I use?

• We recommend well-cushioned trail-running shoes with good grip and lightweight ankle gaiters. Walkers who require additional ankle support may prefer lightweight walking boots. Whichever option you choose, your footwear should be thoroughly worn in before the holiday.

Are walking poles recommended?

• Yes. We strongly recommend walking poles for sandy and loose terrain, repeated coastal ascents and descents, and clay-rich sections of the Algarve’s barrocal, which may become muddy and slippery after rain.

Is this holiday suitable for solo walkers?

• No. This programme operates with a minimum of two participants, and we do not accept solo bookings. A single room may be requested by one participant in an eligible booking of two or more people, subject to availability and a supplement.

Is mobile telephone coverage available?

• Coverage is generally available near towns and villages but may be weak or unavailable in remote coves and below high cliffs. You should not depend on continuous mobile coverage and should keep your telephone charged throughout the walking day.

What happens in bad weather?

• Coastal conditions can change quickly, particularly in strong winds or heavy rain. In that case, Portugal Green Walks will provide advice according to the circumstances. For safety reasons, it may sometimes be necessary to delay, shorten, adapt or avoid part of a walk.