Walking in the Algarve

Where to start planning your Algarve walking holidays and choosing the best walking trails for both strollers and serious hikers.

A brief guide to walking in the Algarve and where to start planning your Algarve walking holidays. Whether you are a seasoned rambler or simply enjoy an after-dinner stroll we point you to the areas to consider. Find information about marked walking trails in the Algarve for a leisurely amble, an active day out or a full-on hiking holiday.

Hiking in the Algarve: stepping out beyond the beach

The Algarve is best known for its fabulous beaches, but if you are looking to be more active it's also a great option for walking holidays. Walking in the Algarve is an excellent winter sun option as the region has over 300 days of sunshine per year and enjoys clear blue skies year-round. It's a perfect choice for a serious walking holiday or just for an easy stroll if you fancy taking a break from the beach.

Pick up Algarve walking maps to find the best routes for you

The local authorities of every area of the Algarve have set up clearly marked walking trails in the Algarve criss-crossing the entire region so you could be spoiled for choice. Algarve walking maps are available at all local tourist offices or an online guide to walking trails in the Algarve is another place to start. Walking routes are graded based on how easy or difficult the route is so you can decide ahead of time if you’re up for the challenge!

Walks in Lagos to take in the rugged beauty of the coast line

!If meandering along miles of coastline is your style the Western Algarve is the place to begin. We advise you to start by enjoying some beautiful and inspiring walks in Lagos. Explore the Algarve hiking trails stretching to Aljezur and beyond on the wild and rugged western coast.

Algarve hiking trails for more serious ramblers

The most serious hikers should consider longer hikes over several days and there are two ideal routes to choose from: the Rota Vicentina and The Via Algarviana.

The Rota Vicentina coast line walking trail

The Rota Vicentina is a 450-kilometre route within the southwest Alentejo and Vicentina Coast Natural Park with fully-marked walking trails, broken up into smaller sections between villages, which takes walkers northwards from Lagos along the coast and through a stunning natural park. It’s a unique experience that combines authentic rural culture and a surprisingly wild coastline.
More information here

The Via Algarviana great pedestrian route

The Via Algarviana stretches from East to West across the entire Algarve region from Alcoutim, near the Guadiana River to Cape St. Vincent, in Vila do Bispo. It passes through the mountainous interior of the Algarve in the Monchique and Caldeirão mountain ranges and sections of the route are sure to challenge even the hardiest of hikers.
More information here

What are you favourite Algarve walking routes?

There are so many options for Algarve hiking trails that we’ve only touched on the possibilities in this guide. There’s a whole region out there to explore and we’d love to hear about your very own Algarve walking adventure.