Walking in the Algarve

Portugal's Algarve is one of Europe's most rewarding winter walking destinations, with a mild climate, dramatic Atlantic coastlines and a surprisingly varied landscape that stretches far beyond its famous beaches. From the rugged cliffs and golden coves of the south coast to the forested hills of the Serra de Monchique and the wild, unspoilt shores of the Costa Vicentina, this is a region that changes character with every walk.

This third edition Cicerone guidebook by Nike Werstroh and Jacint Mig covers 32 graded day walks across the Algarve, ranging from 4 to 18km (2 to 11 miles) and suited to walkers of all abilities. Route descriptions are paired with 1:25,000 and 1:50,000 mapping and downloadable GPX files, with practical information on access, parking, public transport and refreshments for every walk.

32 graded walks across four areas are included, covering the eastern Algarve, the central region, the south coast and the wild Costa Vicentina, with walks graded 1 to 3 and taking between 1 and 6 hours
The south coast offers some of the Algarve's most dramatic walking, with clifftop routes linking Albufeira, Carvoeiro, Lagos and Sagres, including the celebrated Seven Hanging Valleys trail above Praia da Marinha
The Serra de Monchique, the Algarve's highest mountain range, is described with multiple routes, including the ascent of Fóia, the region's highest peak at 902m, through cork oak forests and traditional villages
1:25,000 and 1:50,000 mapping and downloadable GPX files are provided for every walk, with information on access, parking and public transport so you can reach each route with ease
Notes on geology, history, plants and wildlife are present throughout, alongside a Portuguese-English glossary and practical guidance on getting to and around the Algarve


The Algarve walking season runs from October to May, making it one of the best European destinations for a winter or spring walking break. This guidebook is a comprehensive companion for walking in the Algarve, covering everything from an easy coastal stroll to a full day in the Monchique hills.

Seasons

Walking is best between October and May, summer might be too hot for walking, most rain occurs in the winter. Spring starts early.

Centres

Faro, Loulé, Albufeira, Mealha, Furnazinhas, Carvoeiro, Silves, Portimão, Monchique, Caldas de Monchique, Alferce, Marmalete, Lagos, Luz, Salema, Sagres, Cabo de São Vicente, Carrapateira

Difficulty

The walks range from a gentle stroll to longer routes. They are graded: Grade 1 - Easy and/or short walk, without any significant ascent/descent. Grade 2 - Moderate, medium length or a slightly longer walk but mostly on easy terrain. Grade 3 - a longer walk and/or more difficult terrain.

Must See

Don’t miss the dramatic Cabo de São Vicente, the southwestern tip of Europe, and explore the long-distance trails of the Rota Vicentina and Via Algarviana. Head inland to the Monchique mountains, where Foia and Picota offer sweeping views. On the coast, walk the stunning Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and admire the region’s rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and golden coves. Nature lovers can enjoy coastal walks and birdwatching, while history enthusiasts will find atmospheric fort ruins. The inland landscape is dotted with cork oak forests, as well as carob, almond, and olive groves.

Map key Route summary table Overview map Introduction Geography and geology Plants and flowers Wildlife Brief history When to go Getting there Getting around Accommodation What to take Waymarking Using this guide Eastern Algarve Walk 1 Barrancos Walk 2 Ludo Trail Walk 3 Masmorra trail Walk 4 Santa Bárbara Trail Walk 5 Fonte Benémola Walk 6 Rocha da Pena Walk 7 Paderne castle Central region Walk 8 Levada trail Walk 9 Fonte Santa Walk10 Monchique–Fóia loop Walk 11 Caldas de Monchique to Picota and to Monchique Walk 12 Fóia–Penedo do Buraco circular Walk 13 Barbelote waterfall circular Walk 14 Marmelete circular Walk 15 Barranco do Demo Walk 16 Barão de São João art trail South Coast Walk 17 Albufeira to Galé Walk 18 Praia do Vale do Olival to Praia da Marinha Walk 19 Praia da Marinha to Praia Vale de Centeanes Walk 20 Praia Vale de Centeanes to Ferragudo Walk 21 Praia do Vau short coast walk Walk 22 Alvor boardwalk Walk 23 Lagos to Luz Walk 24 Luz to Salema Walk 25 Salema to Sagres Walk 26 Sagres to Cabo de São Vicente Costa Vicentina Walk 27 Cabo de São Vicente–Praia do Telheiro circular Walk 28 Castelejo circular Walk 29 Carrapateira circular Walk 30 Bordeira circular Walk 31 Fortaleza da Arrifana circular Walk 32 Praia da Amoreira circular Appendix A Route summary table Appendix B Portuguese–English glossary Appendix C Useful contacts