Beyond the cold and windy coast of the Western Algarve, tucked away from tourist traps 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 really where the old 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.
Try the local cafés and restaurants on our recommended list for delicious 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!
Walking along wide hiking trails lined by orange, fig, olive and carob trees and passing 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 village with superb views of the Guadiana river.
Day 2 – The route explores the cultural heritage of the beautiful Castles in Alcoutim and its Spanish neighbour Sanlucar, just across the river. Explore our secret smugglers trail with amazing points of view. 13,5 Km – 4 hours
Day 3 – Your route will take you on a panoramic walk of the Alcoutim area, through beautiful fields and forests full of flowers. You can explore the ruins of an old mine and stop at a magnificent river beach with white sand and beautiful song birds. 15,8 Km – 4 hours
Day 4 – We walk to our second base of the tour, the quiet and historic medieval town of Castro Marim. Is this really the Algarve you say? It reminds me of the Douro without the vineyards, but with so many yachts and it´s warm! With stunning and ever changing views of the boats and river banks after every corner. 18,9 Km – 5 hours
Day 5 – You can rest today, why not try a local foodie experience?
Day 6 – The route takes you to the picturesque Lake district in the foothills of the Guadiana river. Admire the lush forests of pine trees and the fertile valleys filled with orchards and vegetables. Try to identify all the different flowers that colour the fields and gardens. 16,3 Km – 4 hours
Day 7 – The last walk takes you through historic Castro Marim, the ancient salt pans and a world class bird nature reserve to the charming eighteenth century border town of Vila Real Santo Antonio on the Guadiana river estuary. Walk along spectacular beach and forest tracks hugging the coastline to amazing beaches. 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.
