Beyond the windy Western coast, tucked away from noisy tourist resorts and frenetic towns, the Eastern Algarve is Portugal’s best-kept secret. Enjoy the sunniest walking weather in Portugal, especially in Spring, Autumn and Winter!
This is the authentic Algarve of salt pans and migrating birds, of small towns and villages, of sunny unspoiled beaches and dunes, of fragrant orchards and forests that all share something very unique: the magnificent and wild Guadiana river frontier with Spain. This is where the old and authentic Portuguese way of life is being retained.
Accommodation in east Algarve
Stay at small, comfortable and charming hotels that are owned by local families that will welcome you with open arms. They all have beautiful gardens and swimming pools, all rooms have air conditioning and en suite bathrooms.
They all have beautiful gardens and swimming pools. All rooms have air conditioning and en suite bathrooms.
Try the local cafés and restaurants on our recommended list for delicious snacks, seafood and meat dishes – don’t forget the unique cakes and desserts that are inspired by the local fruit!
The taste and quality are amazing because everything is cooked fresh and sourced at the local farms, that use traditional and organic farming techniques.
Walking in authentic east Algarve
This hidden region has allowed us to design a unique 8 day route for you to explore the culture, gastronomy and natural unspoiled beauty at a relaxed pace. Starting in the beautiful riverside town of Alcoutim and ending in the historic frontier town of Castro Marim with the warmest seawater in Portugal!
Walk along wide hiking trails lined by orange, fig, olive and carob trees and pass through pretty villages and historic towns, with plenty of time to explore, eat, drink and relax.
Water is the common element here – our trails are never far from the sea, a lake, a stream or the river.
East Algarve walking holiday itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive at the first base of our tour, the pretty and historic medieval town of Alcoutim which was part of the defensive line on the border with Spain. You can relax in the hotel’s poolside garden with superb views of the Guadiana river.
Day 2 – Today’s route in Spain explores the cultural heritage and beautiful Castle of Sanlucar del Guadiana, just across the river. Discover our smugglers trail with amazing points of view. Up to 13,5 Km – 4 hours
Day 3 – Today’s route will take you on a panoramic walk of Alcoutim, from the quaint Castle and old village to beautiful fields and forests full of flowers. You can explore the ruins of an ancient castle and relax at a magnificent river beach with white sand and beautiful song birds. Up to 15,8 Km – 4 hours
Day 4 – Today’s route takes us along the river with Spain to our second base of the tour, the quiet and historic town of Castro Marim. Is this really the Algarve you say? It reminds me of the Douro river valley without the vineyards but with so many yachts and birds! Up to 18,9 Km – 5 hours
Day 5 – You can rest today, why not try a foodie experience with local goat cheese, bread, wine and cake options?
Day 6 – Today’s route takes you through pretty fields of flowers and vegetable gardens to the historic Castro Marim old town. Visit its amazing medieval castle and the 17th century fortress with amazing views of the Guadiana river estuary, before checking in at your next hotel. Up to 11,8 Km – 3 hours
Day 7 – The last walk takes you to some of Portugal’s finest and unspoilt beaches that are part of the Ria Formosa nature reserve. Admire traditional fishing boats and various bird species. Up to 20,8 km – 5 hours
Day 8 – After breakfast travel to Faro Airport for your flight back home.
Dates and Availability
The starting date of this holiday is completely flexible, you can start on different days of the week. You can add extra days to this holiday in the Alentejo or Algarve if you like.
Please contact the holiday provider, through the contact form below, for more information.
