Delights of the Western Algarve

• Admire the spectacular sea cliffs and maritime scenery
• Walk in the Costa Vicentina Natural Park and visit Cape St Vincent
• Enjoy the flexibility of opt out points on many walks
• View an abundance of springtime flowers or autumn fruits
• Explore the cobbled streets of historic Silves, topped by its Arab castle
• Walk from Luz to Lagos, encountering typical Algarvian villages along the way

• Return flights from Heathrow to Toulouse (British Airways)
• Airport transfers
• Full board en suite accommodation with breakfasts and dinner in hotel and packed lunches
• Two walks, two leaders, two grades on most dates
• All local transport costs

Day 1: Portimao

Fly to Faro and transfer by road to Portimao, taking approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Depending on arrival time, you may have an orientation of the town. A relaxed dinner is taken at the hotel this evening.

Day 2: Portimao

Today’s walk starts in the traditional Algarve village of Estombar. Follow the valley of the river Arade visiting the Ecological Park of Fontes, an attractive local beauty spot on the way. The route itself enables you to explore this river valley following quiet tracks and paths so you can appreciate the diverse habitats and wildlife. Finish in Silves, ancient capital of the Algarve.

Day 3: Portimao

Today enjoy a fantastic coastal walk, taking in one of the most famous and dramatic sections of the Algarve coastline. Towering cliffs, sea caves and grottos, superb sandy coves and spectacular headlands including the much photographed Benagil domed caves lined with beautiful sandstone strata. All this can be seen during this stunning walk to finish along Carvoeiro’s renowned elevated boardwalk. This walk has the accolade as one of the best trails in Europe.

Day 4: Lagos

Today, transfer to the next centre of Lagos. Enjoy a full programme with a fantastic coastal walk taking in the superb sandy beaches and dramatic headlands between Alvor and Portimão, including the much photographed beach at Praia da Rocha, one of the best in the Algarve. After a lunch stop, continue by foot, along the coast. Your luggage will be taken separately by coach, and those that prefer not to walk can also take the coach transport.

Day 5: Lagos

Contining with the coastal theme enjoy a spectacular walk starting from the small village and resort of Luz. On this walk you will follow a coastal path to Lagos, visiting on the way Ponta da Piedade where the famous sea caves are to be found and visited by many small boats carrying visitors from nearby Lagos. The walk finishes in Lagos and you will have the afternoon to sightsee in this attractive town that was an important Roman settlement called ‘Lacobriga’.

Day 6: Lagos

Head back inland for a walk that takes in the villages of Barão de São João and Barão de São Miguel. These charming, rural and peaceful villages are characterized by the typical white houses with a coloured band around the windows and doors. This and the traditional Algarve chimneys demonstrate the many years of Moorish occupancy of the area.

Day 7: Lagos

Your final day on the western Algarve fittingly culminates at Sagres, the most westerly point on the Algarve. This area of intensely dramatic cliffs, opening onto a vast horizon of sea and sky, was the last sight of Europe for the explorers setting forth on their fearsome voyages beyond the horizon.

Day 8: Final day

Depending on the flight time, there will be free time before taking the transfer to the airport for the flight back to the UK.

Hotel Globo

Portimao is the largest city in the Western Algarve and was traditionally a centre for ship building, sardine fishing and fish processing. Now, its scenic promenade, historical buildings, beautiful sandy beaches with its warm waters and red cliff backdrop make Portimao an attractive tourist destination. There are many services including banks, chemists, shops, museums, tourist information office, cafes, shops, and restaurants, just a short walk from our hotel. The picturesque beaches of Praia da Rocha are a short bus ride away.

Aqualuz Suite Hotel

The four-star Aqualuz Suite Hotel is located within walking distance of Lagos, with all its amenities and a stroll from the nearest beach. The property boasts four swimming pools, a spa, restaurant, gym and bar. We stay in the one bedroom apartments that have en suite bathrooms, a kitchenette with microwave, hairdryer, air conditioning, wi-fi, in room safe, separate living room and balcony.

Please note, prices listed are guide prices only and are based on 2 people sharing and don’t include any additional supplements. Holiday prices are fluid and dynamic and may be changed at a moment’s notice, prior to booking, at which point they are confirmed. Please call the team free on 0800 707 6229 for more departure dates available and a quote.