The Routes
Note that, rather than a continuous point-to-point hike, these tours have been created from our favourite sections of the south-west Algarve’s stunning coastline. Depending on which of our hiking holidays you chose, your tour may not include all of the hikes listed below or just the best parts of them. The hikes for each itinerary have been carefully selected to offer the best scenery and most enjoyable walking experience.
Your adventure begins at the clifftop sanctuary of Senhora da Rocha, where the trail winds along dramatic coastal paths and passes hidden coves. From Praia da Marinha you follow the celebrated Seven Hanging Valleys Trail which leads you past the world-famous Benagil Cave as you experience one of the most iconic landscapes in Portugal.
From the golden sands of Benagil Beach you follow spectacular cliffside trails with panoramic ocean views at every turn. Craggy sea stacks rise from turquoise waters, and secret beaches tucked into the cliffs offer picture-perfect spots to pause and take in the beauty of the Algarve. Take the time to explore the fascinating rock formations at Algar Seco before you arrive at the postcard-perfect town of Carvoeiro, where whitewashed houses overlook the Atlantic.
From Carvoeiro, the Trail of the Headlands leads west along quiet bays, rugged headlands, and secluded beaches. The route then turns inland along the River Arade towards Ferragudo, a charming fishing village known for its cobbled streets and traditional whitewashed houses. From there you cross the river to spend the night in the lively town of Portimão, where a warm evening atmosphere awaits.
A walk from Alvor to Portimão takes you along scenic wooden boardwalks over dunes and salt marshes, a haven for birdlife. Beyond the wetlands, the path meanders along soft sandy beaches to the towering ochre cliffs of Praia da Rocha, one of the Algarve’s most famous beaches.
A change of scenery awaits as you hike from the sleepy fishing village of Salema, where the trail to Luz unfolds along rolling hills and rugged coastal cliffs. This peaceful stretch offers a true escape, with breathtaking sea views and a sense of remoteness that feels miles away from the busier resort towns.
From the seaside village of Luz, the trail climbs up the cliff tops again and continues toward Lagos. This final stretch is a feast for the senses, featuring golden beaches, striking rock formations, and the breathtaking sea stacks of Ponta da Piedade, where the cliffs drop dramatically into the deep blue Atlantic. Your journey ends in Lagos, a vibrant town with a fascinating maritime history and lively cafés.
With its mix of dramatic landscapes, hidden gems, and charming seaside towns, this route offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation—an unforgettable way to experience the Algarve’s golden southwest.
Terrain Overview
Our Algarve Coast Golden South-West tours follow a mix of clifftop footpaths, sandy trails, and boardwalks, staying close to the region’s dramatic limestone coastline. From Senhora da Rocha to Benagil, the trail winds between sea stacks and hidden caves, with occasional short climbs and rocky sections.
As the route continues through Carvoeiro and Ferragudo, the sandy paths are more even with fewer ups and downs. The Alvor to Portimão section crosses wooden boardwalks over dunes and salt marshes, offering easy walking and excellent birdwatching. Beach stretches are mostly firm underfoot, though some softer sections require a steadier pace.
Further west, rolling coastal hills between Salema and Burgau lead into wilder landscapes, while the final walk from Luz to Lagos includes a steeper climb and then takes in the spectacular cliffs of Ponta da Piedade. Some paths run close to the edge, requiring care, and there are two steep sections but not close to the edge. With well-marked trails, varied scenery, and moderate walking, this journey is a stunning way to explore the Algarve’s southwest coast.
