Walking in the Algarve - Sunflower Books

The Algarve – a coastal paradise for walkers

The Algarve, Portugal’s sun-drenched southern coast, is a walker’s dream. With its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming fishing villages, walking in the Algarve offers a diverse range terrain for all levels of experience.

Our guidebook to walking in the Algarve is your perfect companion.

Below are some of our highlights of walking in the Algarve.

Luz – Burgau – Luz (Walk 2)

This section of coastal path, westwards from Luz along the Rota Vicentina, is the easiest and shortest.

There are no sandy bays en route, but Burgau awaits you, with its long stretch of beach – fine for swimming or just relaxing.

Mexilhoeira nature walk (Walk 5)

This walk starts and finishes on the platform of a small railway station. Explore some wetlands near the sea on this route.

It is a refreshing countryside walk for all to enjoy but will be especially interesting for bird-watchers. The highlights for us were spoonbills and flamingos.

An information board on the railway platform shows the original circular route, which we reproduce here.

Benagil – Senhora da Rocha – Benagil (Walk 12)

This is another very picturesque section of the coast which is full of interest – from wild flowers to spectacular beaches.

The beach at Marinha rates as one of the loveliest in Algarve. It will probably stay so as long as it remains remote and difficult to get to.

It lies in a beautiful natural setting and has the benefit of a small café/bar which is open only in season.

Alte – Soidos – Alte (Walk 14)

\Although a large part of our original walk was enclosed as a private hunting area, fortunately the Rocha dos Soidos trig point itself, with its splendid views, lies just outside the fenced area and can still be reached.

From the summit of this wedge-shaped rock massif, there are superb views. Across the valley, to the north, the village of Sarnadas can be seen.

Beyond it, a patchwork of cultivation rolling away into the distance.

Ribeira de Algibre circuit (Walk 17)

This walk explores a little-known part of the Algarve’s beautiful Barrocal. As always in this region you can expect to find a varied landscape of farmland, light woodland, rich vegetation and some interesting flowers.

Especially throughout the spring months there are plenty of wild orchids tucked away along the side of the track.

The Salir Circuit (Walk 20)

This walk follows some narrow footpaths, bounded by groves. Through the wilder regions there are broad tracks.

It crosses rivers on stepping stones and visits intimate farming communities. We return to the church in the centre of Salir.

This is a spectacular viewpoint with an adjacent café/bar and picnic area. We also visit the old castle area, before heading back to the car.

The best time for walking in the Algarve

The ideal time to explore the Algarve on foot is during the shoulder seasons, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).

During these months, the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. The region’s natural beauty is also at its vibrant best.

Getting around the Algarve

A network of buses connects major towns and cities, making it easy to reach popular walking destinations.

However, renting a car provides flexibility to explore at your own pace, especially for venturing off the beaten path.

The Algarve’s diverse landscapes, warm climate, and picturesque coastal towns make it a walker’s paradise. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the region offers something for everyone.

Buy a copy of our guidebook to walking in the Algarve to discover the best of this region.