Details
33 walks in the south of Portugal including Serra de Monchique and Costa Vicentina
Guidebook to 33 day walks in the Algarve, Portugal's southernmost region. The selected routes offer both coastal and inland options, including the Serra de Monchique and Costa Vicentina, the south and west coasts, the central region and East Algarve. The Algarve benefits from a mild climate, fine scenery and easy transport access.
Seasons
The best times for walking are probably the spring and autumn. The winter months see the most rainfall, but spring arrives early; in most years almond trees bloom from January, and from February there are orchids to look out for. In the spring wildflowers add a splash of colour to the countryside.
Centres
Sagres, Luz, Lagos, Salema, Cabo de São Vicente, Monchique, Caldas de Monchique, Fóia, Marmelete, Carrapateira, Mealha, Furnazinhas, Praia da Marinha, Albufeira, Barragem de Bravura, Arrifana, Bordeira
Difficulty
The walks, of 3.5 to 17km, 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
Rocha da Pena, Fóia, Picota, Paderne Castle, Barbelote waterfall, Cabo de São Vicente, Benagil caves, Fonte Benemola, a megalithic burial site, the barrocal (limestone region), rugged coastline, forts, lighthouses, Via Algarviana long-distance trail, round houses in Mealha, orchids, cork oaks, old wells
