2nd night in Praia da Luz ▸ Quinta do Mar (or similar)
Praia da Luz ▸ Salema
walking distance: 8,5 Km
ascent: ↗ 257 m
descent: ↘ 300 m
3rd night in Salema ▸ Residencial Salema (or similar)
Salema ▸ Sagres
walking distance: 19,6 Km
ascent: ↗ 382 m
descent: ↘ 350 m
4th night in Sagres▸ Mareta Beach B&B (or similar)
Sagres ▸ Lighthouse São Vicente ▸ Sagres
walking distance: 15,5 Km
ascent: ↗ 156 m
descent: ↘ 153 m
5th night in Sagres ▸ Mareta Beach B&B (or similar)
departure day ↦ transfer to Faro
Optional private departure transfer to Faro
…or transfer on your own with or
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
This programme is for you if you are in good physical condition and have no health problems; if you regularly do long walks and consider yourself a good sportsman, love nature and are respectful of the environment.
The Lagos – São Vicente lighthouse hiking adventure
The southwestern region of Portugal, known as the Alentejo and Algarve, especially the Costa Vicentina, has historically been a sparsely populated area, mainly dedicated to agriculture, fishing and livestock farming. The coast remained relatively isolated for centuries, allowing it to preserve its unique biodiversity and almost untouched natural landscape.
For centuries, rural roads and fishermen’s paths connected small villages in the Algarve, cliffs and beaches, used by locals to access the sea, graze livestock or trade between villages. These paths in the Algarve, many of them of ancestral origin, formed the basis of what would later become the Rota Vicentina.
The stretch from Lagos to the São Vicente Lighthouse
The trail connecting Lagos to the São Vicente Lighthouse is one of the most spectacular stretches of the southern coast of the Portuguese Algarve. This approximately 57-kilometre route runs along vertical cliffs of golden limestone, crosses hidden coves with turquoise waters and skirts rock formations sculpted by millennia of marine erosion.
After passing countless coves and secluded beaches of fine white sand, the trail finally reaches the impressive Cape St. Vincent, the southwesternmost point of continental Europe, now an iconic symbol of the Portuguese Algarve.
Highlights of the trip:
Algarve – Fishermen’s Trail: along the southwestern Portuguese coast
Fishing villages and hamlets with an Atlantic flavour
Stunning landscapes on a beautiful and unforgettable hiking trail
History and development of the route
At the beginning of the 21st century, the tourist and ecological value of this region of the Portuguese Algarve began to be recognised. In 1995, with the creation of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, conservation measures were established that limited urbanisation and promoted sustainable tourism in the Algarve.
However, it was in the 2000s that the idea arose to create an official hiking trail that would take advantage of the Algarve’s ancient local paths, combining nature tourism, sustainable development and economic revitalisation of rural communities.
The initiative was launched by the non-profit organisation Rota Vicentina Associação (founded in 2010), which brought together local stakeholders: municipalities, rural tourism companies in the Algarve, environmental NGOs and local communities.
In 2012, the Rota Vicentina was officially inaugurated, with two main itineraries: the Trilho dos Pescadores (Fishermen’s Trail), following the coast along paths traditionally used by local fishermen in the Algarve, and the Caminho Histórico (Historic Trail), an inland route connecting historic villages, rural and agricultural paths.
Both routes totalled more than 350 km of marked trails, crossing the Alentejo and the Algarve, from Santiago do Cacém to Cabo de São Vicente in Sagres. The section from Lagos to the São Vicente Lighthouse was one of the most accessible and spectacular segments of this network, becoming an essential experience for hikers and nature lovers visiting the Portuguese Algarve.
The Algarve is Portugal’s southernmost region and one of Europe’s most sought-after tourist destinations. With its stunning golden cliffs, fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear Atlantic waters, the Algarve has become synonymous with sun, sea and an enviable quality of life.
This Portuguese region stands out for its exceptional climate, with over 300 days of sunshine a year, making the Algarve a paradise for those seeking to escape harsh winters. Mild temperatures throughout the year allow you to enjoy outdoor activities in any season, from world-class golf courses to hiking trails through protected natural landscapes.
The Algarve coastline is extraordinarily diverse. In the western part, there are spectacular rock formations and pristine beaches ideal for surfing enthusiasts. The central coast, with resorts such as Albufeira and Vilamoura, offers all the modern amenities without losing its Portuguese charm. To the east, the Algarve region boasts long sandy beaches and the tranquillity of the Ria Formosa, a natural wetland park that is home to impressive biodiversity.
Beyond its beaches, the Algarve hides cultural and historical treasures. Whitewashed villages such as Tavira, with its Baroque churches and Roman bridges, or Lagos, with its fascinating maritime past, invite visitors to discover the region’s rich heritage. Faro, the capital of the Algarve, preserves a walled old town that transports visitors to bygone eras, while Silves displays the vestiges of Arab occupation with its imposing red sandstone castle.
Gastronomy is another of the Algarve’s great attractions. Fresh seafood and fish are the stars of a cuisine that combines tradition and innovation. Seafood cataplanas, grilled sardines and octopus rice are just some of the delicacies to be savoured. The region’s wines, although less well known than those of the Douro, are gaining international recognition, especially the robust reds from the interior.
The Algarve is also a family destination par excellence, with water parks, marine zoos and calm beaches perfect for children. For the more adventurous, it offers water sports, diving in underwater caves and kayaking routes through the famous Benagil caves.
In recent years, the Algarve has positioned itself as a preferred destination for retirees and remote workers, attracted by its excellent value for money, modern infrastructure and welcoming international community. The region perfectly combines Portuguese authenticity with contemporary comforts, creating a unique balance that explains why the Algarve continues to captivate millions of visitors every year and become home to many of them.
GET A QUOTE
Not exactly what you’re looking for?
We adapt to your requirements Tell us what you want and we’ll do a tailor-made plan for you.
Informative call to explain all the details of each stage.
+ Hotel Riomar (...or similar - Lagos)
2
Day 2
1st stage: Lagos ▸ Praia da Luz
Starting from the historic city of Lagos, the trail quickly enters a coastal landscape of extraordinary beauty. The first few kilometres pass through the famous Ponta da Piedade, a series of natural arches, sea caves and stone needles emerging from the Atlantic Ocean, considered one of the most photographed coastal landscapes in Portugal.
The trail continues along cliffs that can reach 50 metres in height, offering panoramic views of the endless ocean.
Before reaching Burgau, we come across Praia da Luz, a small tourist enclave where we must leave the coastal path to spend the next night in the beautiful Quinta do Mar.
13,3 km | ↗ 260 m | ↘ 213 m
+ Quinta do Mar (or similar - Praia da Luz)
3
Day 3
2nd stage Praia da Luz ▸ Salema
Today's stage will be somewhat more relaxed. Starting from Praia da Luz, the route continues along well-marked trails winding through rock formations. The route crosses some hidden coves, natural viewpoints and small unspoilt beaches where the intense blue of the sea contrasts with the ochre of the rocks.
A route with moderate slopes, but with some more demanding sections in the cliff areas.
When you arrive in Salema, you will find an authentic village that has retained its seafaring essence. Its white houses, quiet beach and excellent seafood restaurants make it the perfect end to one of the most beautiful stretches of the Algarve coast.
8,5 km | ↗ 257 m | ↘ 300 m
+ Residencial Salema (or similar - Salema)
4
Day 4
3rd stage: Salema ▸ Sagres
Today's stage covers one of the wildest and most spectacular stretches of the Algarve, partly following the famous Rota Vicentina. Starting from Salema, the route winds its way through rugged cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, passing through virtually untouched landscapes and fascinating geological formations.
A route with somewhat steeper slopes that crosses remote beaches and coves inaccessible from land, with ideal spots to rest and contemplate the landscape.
As we approach Sagres, the atmosphere becomes more dramatic, culminating in one of Portugal's most iconic locations: the cape that the ancients considered to be the end of the known world. The fortress of Sagres and its vertical cliffs provide a spectacular finale.
19,6 km | ↗ 382 m | ↘ 350 m
+ Mareta Beach B&B (or similar - Sagres)
5
Day 5
4th stage: Sagres ▸ São Vicente lighthouse ▸ Sagres
This legendary trail, approximately 6-7 kilometres long, connects the historic fortress of Sagres with São Vicente Cape, the southwesternmost point of continental Europe. The route takes between 2 and 2.5 hours of moderate walking.
The path skirts imposing cliffs that rise up to 75 metres above the Atlantic Ocean and offers endless views of the open sea, as well as the sensation of being at the edge of the world.
After arriving at São Vicente Cape, known for centuries as the ‘end of the world,’ and enjoying the unforgettable spectacle of the Atlantic stretching out towards infinity, it is time to return to Sagres by the same route, or wait for our transfer to pick us up.
15,5 km | ↗ 156 m | ↘ 153 m
+ Mareta Beach B&B (or similar - Sagres)
6
Day 6
Departure or extension
Optional private transfer with or transfer on your own with to Faro or Lisbon airport, or possible extension of your stay in Portugal.
TOUR LOCATION
Explore the southern part of Fishermen's Trail in 4 stages - 6 days
It is also possible to book some additional days, before or after the hiking week, or an additional week to relax.
Difficulty
To successfully achieve the 4 stages of Algarve Fishermen's Trail it is necessary an good physical condition and steady walk. According to the year season, temperatures can be extreme (hot and/or cold). Therefore, it is necessary to have suitable warm clothes permanently, to be removed as layers if necessary. Some parts of this trail include passages with slippery loose stone. Although most of this trail is roomy enough, certain sections are quite aerial and require caution. Using hiking poles is highly recommended.
Trails
The Rota Vicentina is a well signposted network of trails. All sections where from our tours are perfectly marked. In addition to the detailed map of the island, you will get from us precise indications of each route and assistance from the hotline on your walks.
We recommend
Appropriate hiking clothing and sturdy footwear. During the tours, it is necessary to have food and drink enough, as well as sun protection, a cap, wind jacket and, in the winter months, warm clothing.
Luggage transfer
We move your luggage from one accommodation to next, so on your hikes you should only carry a backpack with the essentials of the day. For the whole trip, it is recommendable to use a single suitcase, not bigger than 20 kg.
You can book at any date!
However, bear in mind that in the middle months of summer the heat can be intense.
SUITABLE FOR
FLIGHTS TO / FROM FARO
Other options to consider
The Portuguese airline TAP also connects some UK airports with LISBOA o FARO. It is worth comparing prices and analysing all the possibilities 😉
SUITABLE FOR
FLIGHTS TO / FROM FARO
Otras opciones a considerar
La portuguesa TAP también conecta MADRID, BARCELONA y otras ciudades de España con LISBOA o FARO. Merece la pena comparar precios y analizar todas las posibilidades 😉
...or search directly among airlines
Alberto
Travel organisation
Do you have any questions? I am happy to help you. I will answer any questions you may have!
Book early! ...and get a 6% discount for bookings more than 90 days in advance, for your trip between September 15thand June 15th
(NOT bookable between December and January)
580 € ▸ 545€ per person in double/twin room (2 persons)
| Single Suplement (room for single use)
(...and 3rd person): + 195 €
Solo Traveller (1 person): 985 € ▸ 925 €
Any arrival date is possible - You decide your travel dates and when to start. However, we must first request availability to the accommodations.
Booking: With an initial payment of 150 € (per person), book now, guarantee your trip and pay the balance 21 days before arrival. We will confirm your reserve within 24 hours. But in the case of accommodations unavailability, we will refund the paid amount or propose alternative dates.
What does this programme include?
Accommodations - 4 nights in different small charming hotels or apartments, B&B basis
Informations - personalised information by video-talk (if desired) on your arrival day
informative material - maps to be picked up at the hotel reception, upon arrival
Descriptions & GPX Tracks - to follow the walks on your mobile device
Luggage transfers - we move your luggage from accommodation to accommodation while you walk
Support 24h - we keep permanently in touch with you throughout your stay to solve any problem or enquiry you may have
What is NOT included?
▸Flights to and from your home city to Portugal are not included
▸Transfer on arrival day to the starting point and transfer to the airport on departure day: see bus timetables in or private transfer with
▸Lunches & Dinners
Cancellation Policy
▸ Up to 21 days before the date of arrival, 100% refund.
▸Between 15 and 7 days before the arrival date, 50% refund, or free of charge dates change.
▸ Between 6 and 3 days before the arrival date, 25% refund, no date changes permitted.
▸48 hours before the arrival date, 0% refund, no date changes permitted.
or 
However, it was in the 2000s that the idea arose to create an official hiking trail that would take advantage of the Algarve’s ancient local paths, combining nature tourism, sustainable development and economic revitalisation of rural communities.
In 2012, the Rota Vicentina was officially inaugurated, with two main itineraries: the Trilho dos Pescadores (Fishermen’s Trail), following the coast along paths traditionally used by local fishermen in the Algarve, and the Caminho Histórico (Historic Trail), an inland route connecting historic villages, rural and agricultural paths.
1st stage: Lagos ▸ Praia da Luz
2nd stage Praia da Luz ▸ Salema
3rd stage: Salema ▸ Sagres
Any arrival date is possible - You decide your travel dates and when to start. However, we must first request availability to the accommodations. 
Booking: With an initial payment of 150 € (per person), book now, guarantee your trip and pay the balance 21 days before arrival. We will confirm your reserve within 24 hours. But in the case of accommodations unavailability, we will refund the paid amount or propose alternative dates.
Accommodations - 4 nights in different small charming hotels or apartments, B&B basis 
Informations - personalised information by video-talk (if desired) on your arrival day 
informative material - maps to be picked up at the hotel reception, upon arrival 
Descriptions & GPX Tracks - to follow the walks on your mobile device 
Luggage transfers - we move your luggage from accommodation to accommodation while you walk 
Support 24h - we keep permanently in touch with you throughout your stay to solve any problem or enquiry you may have
