Why the Algarve?
Portugal’s southernmost region, with its rugged coastline, hidden coves, rock fringed sandy beaches and pleasant climate, has been attracting beach-loving tourists since the late 1960s. Walking in the Algarve has become a very popular activity in recent years. Small fishing villages have gradually grown into tourist resorts. Endless summer days see a great number of people in the coastal resorts. Admiring the sandy beaches surrounded by cliffs from the coastal path, it is not difficult to see why the sun-seekers come here.
Walking in the Algarve is the best way to explore the region's surprisingly diverse scenery. The Algarve might not be considered a walking destination as there are no high mountains; however there are two long distance trails across the area. Shorter hiking and biking trails are advertised as well, and active holidays are encouraged for the growing number of people who want to explore beyond the sandy beaches.
Jagged coastlines washed with turquoise waters dominate the scenery in the south, and even in the early autumn, you can still stop for a swim on one of the remote sandy beaches. The narrow southern coastal path is easy to follow and it gives numerous opportunities to admire sinkholes and sea stacks created by the power of nature.
When to go walking in the Algarve?
You can enjoy most walks from September to June, but spring is perhaps the best time walking in the Algarve, when wildflowers give colour to the countryside and the temperature is warm but not too hot. Spring arrives early – in some years as early as January – with almond trees in bloom. From February there are orchids to look out for.
The summer months are generally hot for walking in the Algarve, but in September you can enjoy beach weather with fewer people, and stop for a swim along the coastal paths; however, make sure you take enough water and apply sun cream generously. If planning to walk in the winter, bear in mind that most rain occurs during the winter months, but the temperature is pleasant for walking. It can be a lot colder and windier on Fóia than on the south coast. The west coast is constantly battered by strong winds and can be colder than the rest of the Algarve.
Are there historical sites in the Algarve?
Many of the trails offer great views as well as interesting historical sights to look out for. You can still see some rusty noras (wells) in the countryside, ruins of forts and lighthouses along the coast, an abandoned hamlet on the slope of Fóia, or a megalithic burial site (built during the 3rd or 4th millennium BC) near Maelha.
Many locals might think that walking in the Algarve (for leisure) is a strange activity, but they welcome the growing number of people who want to explore the diverse landscape on foot.
Are there any guidebooks for the Algarve?
The answer is yes. We have walked much of the best trails of the Algarve. Our guidebook, Walking in the Algarve was published by Cicerone Press. They are a UK based publisher and publish the best guidebooks for walking, trekking and cycling. We have written several guidebooks so please have a look at our other books too.
Can you help me plan a walking holiday?
Yes, we can assist you with planning your walking holiday to most Mediterranean destination. Please visit our Personalised travel planning page for more information.
