Self-guided walking
7 nights,
twin centre
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
22.0Kg CO2e
Rota Vicentina is a network of well-preserved walking trails in South-West Portugal totalling 450km. Comprised of two main routes (several circular routes are also available) - The Historical Way (inland) and The Fishermen's Trail (coastal) propose an exceptional journey between the two contrasting personalities of this admired route.
You will stay in two extraordinary Portuguese regions, which combines Alentejo's serene ambiance with the only coastal stretch of Algarve that remains truly genuine and wild. Pampered by over 300 days of sunshine a year, this region is an unmissable destination for lovers of walking within nature.
Our two centres have been chosen for their accessible locations to get to the best walks, high standard of hotels and of course the quality of the surrounding walks.
You will first be based in the castellated town of Aljezur, whose castle is actually quite legendary as it's one of the seven that are represented on the flag of Portugal. This lush green valley is well known for its 'incomparable' home grown sweet potatoes and boasts a very relaxed, traditional way of life in comparison to the bustling Algarve further south. The historic old town and intriguing new town are separated by the flowing river that runs through the valley.
Your second centre is in the charming town of Odemira located on the banks of the Rio Mira which is still tidal at this section. This beautiful area offers a tranquil experience set within characterful countryside between the hills and the sea, where you will notice the abundance of traditional white houses' facing down towards the powerful Rio Mira. Similar to Aljezur, Odemira has an interesting old town set on the hillside which is well worth exploring.
We have carefully selected what we feel highlights the very best of this picturesque route that you can complete within just one week. Our combination of the Historical Way (inland route) and the Fishermen's Trail (coastal route) offers a unique experience to discover the two worlds between an authentic rural culture and a surprisingly wild coastline within the Alentejo Natural Park.
Treat yourself to the excellent Portuguese cuisine (and wine!). In particular this area of Alentejo highlights their exceptional seasonal produce and demonstrates diversity across such short distances in the same region. Fresh seafood cooked in a traditional Portuguese style, combined with their precious grapes used to create their world-famous wines is difficult to surpass.
Routes follow country roads, farm and forest tracks and paths of variable standard. The roads are sometimes tarmacked but are mostly gravel or sand.
Arrive in the castellated town of Aljezur, where you spend four nights.
You stay at Vicentina Hotel.
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Located in the heart of Aljezur looking towards the infamous Castle of Aljezur, the 4* Vicentina Hotel offers a warm welcome and comfortable rooms, some of which overlook the green hills towards the imposing Castle. There is an outdoor swimming pool available to all guests. Excellent English is spoken throughout the hotel and the owner Margarida can assist you with any queries you may have.
All rooms feature free Wi-Fi, television, air conditioning, safe and private bathroom with WC, shower/bath and hairdryer.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
Set off along the valley of the Ribeira de Aljezur through wooded countryside to reach the coastal village of Mte Clerigo, where there is a splendid beach and an opportunity for refreshments. If you want a short walk today, you can arrange transport to this point and you will thereafter enjoy the best part of the full route. From Praia de Mte Clerigo walk along the dramatic coastal cliffs, a highlight of the route. The route ends above the attractive beach of Arrifana, where you might choose to spend some time relaxing and watching the surfers. Take a transfer (book and payable locally) back to your hotel.
You stay at Quinta do Chocalhinho.
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The family run Quinta do Chocalhinho is a converted farm located in a quiet and secluded valley in Odemira. There is a huge lounge with TV, computer, music equipment and books. Outside there is a large swimming pool and tennis court. Most rooms have their own outdoor sitting areas. The manager Teresa speaks very good English in the absence of her parents who own the Quinta. A delightful breakfast and dinner are taken in the hotel restaurant.
All rooms feature free Wi-Fi, television, air conditioning, safe and private bathroom with WC, shower/bath and hairdryer
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
Walk through the old part of Aljezur before heading though woodland to a plateau. Walk through heathland and forest to pick up the Fishermen's Trail and reach the coast and follow a section along the cliff top dunes. Reach the sandy estuary of the Aljezur River, with the gorgeous Praia da Amoreira, where you can stop for refreshments before rejoining your outward trail.
From the coastal village of Arrifana, walk through forest and scrubland. Drop down to the spectacular Praia do Canal and then walk back up through eucalyptus plantations. The landscape becomes more varied and attractive as you continue to the old village of Bordeira. Follow a hilly route to the village of Carrapateira.
Transfer north (1hr) to the Alentejo region and your base for the next 3 nights. From there a varied walk takes you into the hills east and north of the town, passing through farmland, native woodland and eucalyptus plantations, returning to Odemira by the tidal Rio Mira.
Today's walk passes through sparsely populated, hilly countryside with lots of cork oaks, and some eucalyptus forest. With the river in Odemira (the Rio Mira) being tidal, you start at close to sea level and end up at 150m asl. Most of the walk follows the Historical Way on country roads and tracks to Sao Teotonio. Transfer back to the Quinta (book and pay locally).
You start at the small fishing port of Entrada da Barca and walk a beautiful section of coastline, above dramatic cliffs with incredible folded rocks, following a section of the Fishermen’s Trail. Follow the coast north to the lighthouse of Cabo Sardao before continuing to Almograve along a spectacular coastline.
If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Hotel Lisboa Plaza, Lisbon.
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Owned by the same family since 1953, the 4 star Hotel Lisboa Plaza is an imaginatively designed hotel, just off the famous Avenida da Liberdade. All rooms have en-suite marble floored bathrooms, air conditioning, satellite television, direct dial telephones, hairdryers and mini-bar. The public rooms are elegantly furnished and there is a pleasant bar and dining room.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from C$331.
These flight inclusive prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from C$331.
Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
twin centre
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
22.0Kg CO2e
