Skip to content Skip to footer

#5 – Rota Vicentina from A to Z – Complete

Duration:
13 nights and 12 walks
Tour Type:
Self Guided Walking Tour
Group size:
Min group size: 1 - Max: 16

From 1,124.00

*All values shown serve as a reference. Final quotes may be slightly higher or lower based on your program, may vary depending on availability and accommodation.

Highlights
  • End-to-end walk of Rota Vicentina;
  • Explores two different regions, Alentejo and Algarve;
  • Delicious typical food with fresh ingredients;
  • The very end of the GR11 -9 (Rota Vicentina) that starts in St. Petersburg (Russia)
  • SW Corner of Europe and Saint Vincents Cape
Discount:

Select Planned Starting Date

(Date must be at least 5 days from today) Available seasons: Feb 1 - Jun 23 | Sep 22 - Nov 30 The planned starting date is only an indicative date. After your purchase we will enter in contact with you to confirm the actual starting date.

Room Options

ProductPriceQuantity
DOUBLE/TWIN 1,124.00
0
SINGLE 1,666.00
0
SOLO TRAVELER 1,779.00
0
Total Cost: 0.00

Deposit : 337.20 Per item

Total: 1124

Accompanied service

Briefing Luggage Transfers Local Support Emergency Support

This program combines programs #3 and #4, making it an “end-to-end” walk along Rota Vicentina, combining the best of Historical Way and Fishermen’s Trail, consisting of 12 day-walks, averaging 20km/12.5mi per day, totalizing 239km/148mi.

This is probably one of the best ways to explore the finest of Portugal’s pristine SW coast, getting to know a little of its splendor, from the authentic feeling of the rural villages inland to the picturesque fishing towns by the coast, and from Alentejo to western Algarve, two of the most beautiful regions in Portugal, reaching the Southwestern corner of Europe just before “América”.

Get the opportunity to try the delicacies of this area, starting with the black pork, followed by the freshly caught fish and seafood, and finishing with Algarve’s delicious sweet potato, carob, and almond desserts.

 
 
DURATION: 13 nights, and 12 walks
LEVEL: easy-to-moderate
MIN. GROUP SIZE: 1
TOTAL DISTANCE: 239Km /148Miles
TOTAL CLIMB: 3536m
TOTAL DESCENT: 3714m

Price per person: 1124€ (based on 2 people sharing a room)
Single Supplement: 542€
Solo Travellers Supp.: 655€

Includes:
  • Briefing at the first hotel on arrival and arrival package delivery;
  • 13 nights using bed & breakfast + 1 night ONLY BED in Vale Seco (always with private bathroom);
  • One Map 1: 55 000 and One Guidebook in English, German, or French, per room;
  • Recommended restaurants list;
  • Luggage transfers;
  • Local support (phone line);
  • 4x4 emergency support vehicle
  • GPX files on request.
Price excludes
  • Travel to the start and from the finish of your walk;
  • Transfers not mentioned on the voucher;
  • Travel insurance;
  • Meals other than breakfast;
Observations: Possible to add extra nights or to develop a tailor-made proposal.

Day 1 - Arrival to Santiago do Cacém

Briefing at the Hotel
Arriving in Santiago do Cacém, situated in the inland of Alentejo’s coast, is well worth exploring, it is an interesting town, passage point of walkers since the medieval age, it is nowadays council’s head-office; great panoramic views over the city and towards the hill with the castle and city’s church on top. Now we also have 90% of our routes marked on the field in Costa Vicentina Route, this way you can get more of all this hiking and exploring experience.

  • Overnight: Santiago do Cacém
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Santiago to Vale Seco

DISTANCE: 20Km/12,5Miles;
DURATION: 6h;
CLIMB 456 M;
DESCENT: 501 M;

Time to start your adventure, following the inner Alentejo’s coast, this path will take you through forests and montado (forests of cork oaks) areas, where you’ll have the chance to take a close look over this very important tree; there’s also the chance of seeing some species of bird who use the montado areas to settle their nests.

  • Overnight: Vale Seco
  • Meals included: N/A. Breakfast is not included but the place offers the use of a kitchen, also with a small café 500 meters away.

Day 3 - Vale Seco to Cercal do Alentejo

DISTANCE: 20Km/12,4Miles;
DURATION: 5h;
CLIMB 295M;
DESCENT: 338M;

The third day brings a strong rural feeling to the walk, passing by many farms and cultivated fields, a good opportunity to see a different rhythm and lifestyle. Walking through forests, open cultivated fields, olive fields, small dams, and reservoirs of water. Before getting to Cercal the path takes you around the beautiful Campilhas damp, a nice place to refresh and go for a quick swim in the warmer days.

  • Overnight: Cercal do Alentejo
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Cercal to Porto Côvo

DISTANCE: 17Km/10,5Miles;
DURATION: 5h;
CLIMB 289 M;
DESCENT: 417 M;

Now it’s time to go closer to the sea, this stage is the connection with the fisherman’s trail. After the first Kms by small farms and their beautiful cultivated gardens, we can even feel the eucalyptus in the air as we pass by a plantation. We’ll know the sea’s getting closer as soon as we find some flat cereal fields, with the blue already on the horizon.

  • Overnight: Porto Covo
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Porto Côvo to Milfontes

DISTANCE: 20Km/12,5Miles;
DURATION: 6h;
CLIMB 167 M;
DESCENT: 149 M;

Wonderful walk along the coastline always with an amazing sea view. Starting in a very picture historical village called Porto Côvo, passing a small Island called "Ilha do Pessegueiro" with the option to go by the beach taken the hard sand or going a little bit more inland by the dunes path. You will find some stunning beaches, some of the desert, and after that, almost at the end, you have a fishing arbor in the "north area" of Vila Nova de Milfontes.

  • Overnight: Vila Nova de Milfontes
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Milfontes to Almograve

DISTANCE: 15Km/9,3Miles or 12Km/7,4Miles using the Ferry Boat option;
DURATION: 5h;
CLIMB 263 M;
DESCENT: 283 M;

In the morning with your body full of energy, you have 2 solutions to start the journey:
A) Catching a small ferry-boat to do the river crossing, or,
B) Crossing through the bridge, taking the path from the beginning.

Both options will lead you to an easy day walking crossing fields and small cliffs, with access to several beaches, heading to Almograve, further South.

Nice place to have lunch and enjoy the local gastronomy. After lunch, it´s time to go and explore the Almograve beach. Almograve is a really small place so depending on the season we may need to pick you there to have a second night in Vila Nova de Milfontes (don´t worry we will assume those transfers from/to) Almograve.

  • Overnight: Almograve or Vila Nova de Milfontes (Almograve has limited options)

Day 7 - Almograve to Zambujeira do Mar

DISTANCE: 21km/13Miles;
DURATION: 6h;
CLIMB 203 M;
DESCENT: 193 M

Depending on your overnight place:
  • From Milfontes: After a morning transfer to Almogave,
  • From Longueira: In the morning is time to get back on the trail, hiking through the cycle path that provides access to Almograve (20-minute walk). If not in the mood to walk this connection segment, you can always ask for a táxi from the host, of your accommodation there.
  • From Almograve, you will be once again exploring the landscapes along the unspoiled coastal Alentejo. Passing by Zambujeira's fishing arbor (Entrada da Barca – on route). Allowing you to walk next to the cliffs with panoramic sceneries, where you'll be able to watch cliff-nesting storks. You can use the small village of Cavaleiro to make a stop, buy some supplies and enjoy a good and homemade local dish, just before head West to the beautiful lighthouse of Cabo Sardão. The end will be in Zambujeira do Mar, with one of the most amazing urban beaches in Portugal.
  • Overnight in Zambujeira do Mar
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Zambujeira to Odeceixe

DISTANCE: 18km/11,2Miles;
DURATION 6h;
CLIMB 263 M;
DESCENT: 283 M;

Maybe one of the most popular hiking routes used by the fishermen that goes South direction to the first Algarve village (Odeceixe). But before getting there, plenty does explore, feel and smell, being the Carvalhal Beach, the residence of the famous "fado" singer Amália Rodrigues and the locally famous harbor "Azenha do Mar", some of the highlights.

After recharging your batteries at these Azenha do Mar seafood restaurants after you will have the energy needed to get to Odeceixe River and cross the bridge to get to the Algarve.

  • Overnight: Odeceixe
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Odeceixe to Aljezur

DISTANCE: 23km/14Miles;
DURATION: 6h;
CLIMB 405 M;
DESCENT: 395 M;

From Odeceixe we keep walking near the southwest coast, passing near “ceixe´s” river banks and following south getting inside the Algarve Region. We go directly to the Moorish village of Aljezur.

  • Overnight: Aljezur
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Aljezur to Arrifana Beach

OPTION A- 18km/11,2Miles Combined Version or;
DURATION: OPTION A - 5h
OPTION A - CLIMB: 345M; DESCENT: 288M;

OPTION B - 12Km/74Miles (Just Historical Trail);
DURATION: OPTION B - 4h
OPTION B - CLIMB: 224M; DESCENT: 184M;

Today the route takes us to explore the way into Arrifana beach. To add a few Kms to the short walk, today we can choose to follow the fisherman’s trail, it will take until Arrifana Beach by the cliffs, with amazing views over the ocean. Wonderful place to spend some time enjoying the beach.

  • Overnight: Arrifana
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Arrifana Beach to Carrapateira

OPTION A - DISTANCE: 24Km/15Miles (Historical way only inland route);
DURATION: 6h;
CLIMB 413M; DESCENT: 500 M;​

OPTION B - DISTANCE: 22Km/12,5Miles (combined trails historical and fishermen´s);
DURATION: 6h;
CLIMB 300M; DESCENT: 250 M;

Option A
A wonderful and peaceful walk inland, always offering captivating and picturesque countryside views. The journey starts in the charming village of Arrifana and moves towards the breathtaking southern landscapes, following the historic path along serene rural trails and rustic dirt tracks. This route is tranquil, immersive, and perfect for those seeking a calm retreat away from the coast, surrounded by the authentic charm of the region’s verdant countryside.

Option B
This option follows scenic and rugged coastal tracks, offering a thrilling journey along dynamic terrain with impressive ocean views. The path primarily traverses sections of hard and challenging terrain, including rugged dirt tracks and isolated secondary paths. Toward the end, you have the option to access the quaint and inviting village of Carrapateira via the beach, adding a refreshing and picturesque conclusion to this adventurous route.

  • Overnight: Carrapateira
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 12 - Carrapateira to Vila do Bispo

OPTION A: DISTANCE: 22km/13Miles (Only historical trail inland);
DURATION: 6h;
OPTION A - CLIMB 299 M; DESCENT: 206 M;

OPTION B: DISTANCE: 16km/10Miles (Fishermen´s trail);
DURATION: 6h;
OPTION A - CLIMB 500M; DESCENT: 420 M;

Option A - This walk brings us again beautiful colors, hills entering the sea, amazing flat fields in the valley’s bottoms, small rivers running towards the ocean, and temporary water ponds, extremely important for the strong natural biodiversity. Be aware, there will be opportunities to watch some species of birds, especially, as you go closer to Vila do Bispo.

​Option B - Will take you through the fishermen's trail where the Atlantic offers the hiker the best smells and sounds with a unique landscape to enjoy.

  • Overnight: Vila do Bispo
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 13 - Vila do Bispo to Sagres (St. Vicentin's Cape)

STAGE: VILA DO BISPO - SAGRES VIA SAINT VINCENT CAPE
DISTANCE: 21km/13Miles;
DURATION 6h;
CLIMB 138M;
DESCENT: 161M;

The last stage of our adventure will take us to the most South-western point of continental Europe. A special place, not only because of it’s particular position but also due to its important role during the Portuguese discovery Era. Also destination of many pilgrims faithful to St. Vincent. A very strong and rich area for bird watching, so pay attention and keep your binoculars ready.

  • Overnight: Sagres
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Day 14 - Departure

It is possible to add extra nights along the trail or to develop a personalized and tailor-made proposal to suit your preferences.
 
We strongly recommend the connection from Sagres to the City of Lagos in 3 beautiful and memorable stages. These coastal trails, which are part of the fascinating fishermen's trail of the Rota Vicentina, allow you to walk through:
  • Sagres to Salema (19.5 km / 12.2 miles): A challenging and rewarding hike along the stunning coastline of the Algarve region. This stage remains inside the protected natural park, featuring dramatic cliffs and a diverse undulating landscape. Expect approximately 7 hours of invigorating hiking through breathtaking scenery.
  • Salema to Luz Beach (12 km / 7.5 miles): A relaxed and pleasant walk in the Algarve region, following the picturesque fishermen's trail of the Rota Vicentina. This easy-going stage takes only half a day to complete, leaving ample time to explore the charming village of Salema and enjoy the pristine beach scenery.
  • Luz Beach to Lagos (11 km / 6.8 miles): Another easy and enjoyable day of walking, this time leaving the natural park behind and heading toward the vibrant and historic city of Lagos, the largest city in the southwest. With plenty of time to explore the lively city center, you can also embark on exciting boat trips or simply soak in the inviting atmosphere.
These 3 additional stages strike a perfect balance between being challenging enough to keep things interesting and leaving time to relax, lay down at the beach, and savor the unforgettable coastal views.
Connections to Faro and Lisbon are available — please check our instructions on how to reach these destinations above on this same page.

If you have any doubts, feel free to let us know, and we will find the perfect solution for you.

 

Booking Proceedings

To book your adventure with us, follow these simple steps:

  1. Contact Us: Send us an email using our online form or directly at info@vicentinatravel.comPlease include:

    • The program you are interested in.

    • Your room preference (single, twin, or matrimonial).

  2. Pre-Reservation: Once we receive your request, we will confirm accommodation availability within a couple of days.

  3. Confirmation Email: You will receive an email containing:

    • The final list of accommodations.

    • Booking and payment conditions (booking reference, deposit details, balance, etc.).

    • Your e-voucher.
      This pre-reservation will be valid after a 30% deposit.

  4. Final Confirmation: Once we receive your deposit confirmation, we will send a final confirmation, and your trip code will be activated. At this stage, we kindly ask you to share your arrival time so we can finalize logistics accordingly.

General Information

Hotels

  • The hotels listed are our standard accommodation choices. If unavailable, alternatives of the same standard or upgrade options will be arranged.

  • All rooms include private bathrooms.

  • Baths/Showers: Many rooms offer showers instead of baths due to space constraints.

Meals

  • Breakfast typically includes coffee, toast, bread, or croissants, with more variety available in some locations.

  • Special Dietary Requirements: Please inform us of any dietary needs when booking, so we can notify our accommodation partners.

Single Supplements

  • A single supplement is required for solo travelers. While it ensures privacy, rooms may be smaller or have fewer facilities compared to double/twin rooms.

Language

  • In remote areas, English may not be widely spoken. Embrace the cultural experience—consider bringing a phrasebook and learning a few words of Portuguese!

Luggage

  • In some hotels, your luggage may be delivered to your room. However, you might need to carry it yourself. If assistance is needed, kindly ask hotel staff.

Guidebook/Map

  • One set of route notes per room is included. Additional sets can be purchased for 25€ each.

Insurance

  • All clients must have appropriate travel insurance covering the activities included in their itinerary.

Accommodation & Meals

  • Accommodation is provided on a bed-and-breakfast basis, using locally owned hotels full of authentic Portuguese charm.

  • A recommended list of local restaurants, curated from our personal experience, will be provided upon arrival.

 
 

To/From Lisbon

(To Santiago do Cacém/From Sagres)

Arrivals

Lisboa to Santiago do Cacém:

Departures

Sagres to Lisboa:

  • Sagres to Lisboa via LAGOS:

  • Needed: 45 minutes connection using EVA BUS from Sagres to Lagos

  • In Lagos, you will have BUS AND TRAIN SERVICE available

  • PRIVATE TRANSFER from Sagres to Lisboa (on request);

To/From Sagres

(To Santiago do Cacém/From Sagres)

Arrivals

Faro to Santiago do Cacém:

Departures

Sagres to Faro:

  • Need a 45 minutes connection using EVA BUS SERVICE from Sagres to Lagos

  • In Lagos, you will have BUS AND TRAIN SERVICE available

  • PRIVATE TRANSFER from Sagres to Faro (on request)

SELF-GUIDED HOLIDAYS – ROTA VICENTINA

Plan your adventure in Southwest Portugal!

WHEN TO GO / BOOK? – 2026 SEASONS

You are free to choose your starting date:

1st SEASON

  • 📍 01 February – 23 June (last departure)
  • ⚠️ April – Low Availability
  • ⚠️ May – Low Availability

2nd SEASON

  • 📍 22 September – 30 November (last departure)
  • September – Available
  • ✅ October – Available

📝 Other dates available on request.

👥 Group Limit: Max. 16 people inside the natural park (on request)

We speak your language! English, French, German and Italian available!
This is default text for notification bar