This walking tour is designed to explore the East Algarve's open countryside with pretty villages, historic monuments and recognized natural reserve areas like Ria Formosa. You will explore picturesque villages, located on fertile limestone lands and with a landscape characterized by an abundance of olive, carob, fig and almond trees and a profusion of wildflowers. Each walk is full of colour, plants, wildlife and history and all are different with unique sights. Each day’s walk highlights the contrasting landscape and wildlife of this lovely region. This tour was put together for the enjoyment of those who have a special interest in walking and nature. You’ll see a Portugal you’ve never imagined existed and that you’ll never forget!
Highlights:
♦ The city of Tavira - arguably the Algarve’s most charming town. Fishing boats crowd the river Gilão and layers of history can be seen, from Phoenician excavations through Islamic-decorated doorways to Renaissance and Baroque flourishes.
♦ Algarve Countryside - In the Eastern Algarve the small villages have kept much of their original character providing a quiet and relaxing holiday destination.
♦ Algarve Coastline - Walk close to the coast, and follow tracks and quiet lanes from and to picturesque old fishing villages.
Itinerary:
Day 1. Arrival in Tavira
Individual arrival to Faro Airport or Faro Train station. Transfer to your Hotel in Tavira. Transfer time +/-45 minutes. This quality hotel is located on the highest point above the town and boasts commanding views of the rich and historically diverse architecture that is typical of the coastal town of Tavira. The hotel is only a few minutes’ walk from the centre of the town with plenty of shops, cafés, restaurants etc nearby. -/-/-
Day 2. Walk Cacela Velha and Cabanas
An easy walk, close to the coast, starting in the beautiful old village of Cacela Velha, following tracks and quiet lanes to the picturesque old fishing village of Cabanas. We continue back to Tavira, through the saltpans where we may see an abundance of wild life along with the traditional craft of salt extraction. B/-/-
(Walking time: 3h30 | Ascent/Descent: +65m/-66m | Approx. Km: 14.1km; 8.7mi;)
Day 3. Cerâmica walk
A beautiful walk going down a fertile valley, dotted with the occasional small family operated traditional tile factories. This rich valley also has an abundance of perfumed orange and lemon orchards while the profusion of wild flowers delights the eyes. B/-/-
(Walking time: 3h45 | Ascent/Descent: +146m/-282m | Approx. Km: 15km; 9.3mi;)
Day 4. Free day
This is an ideal opportunity to relax and enjoy the attractions of Tavira and surroundings. You can walk/tour independently, or visit local places of interest. From Tavira there is a wide variety of sightseeing available (we can advise and/or recommend options according to your interests). On free time keen bird-watchers may wish to visit Castro Marim in the fens and marshes of the "Reserva Natural do Sapal", famous for their flamingos, or enjoy other local sightseeing tours. B/-/-
Day 5. Altura to Vila Real de Santo António
A very enjoyable walk along the coast to the frontier with Spain. We start in the resort village of Altura and meander along paths through the pine woodlands and pristine beaches until we reach the estuary of the Rio Guadiana. The walk finishes in the charming town of Vila Real de Santo António with a fascinating history and architecture. B/-/-
(Walking time: 2h45 | Ascent/Descent: +11m/-20m | Approx. Km: 11km; 6.8mi;)
Day 6. Fuzeta to Tavira
A fascinating walk to the west of Tavira, with end in the fishing village of Fuzeta with its bustling waterfront, crossing saltpans full of bird life, small hamlets with colourful houses and gardens, grand villas and tiny small holdings. B/-/-
(Walking time: 4h | Ascent/Descent: +35m/-22m | Approx. Km: 16km;10mi;)
Day 7. Santa Luzia & Tavira Island
A real treat as we walk along one of finest beaches in the world and visit the small fishing village of Santa Luzia with its abundance of fishing boats bobbing in the gentle waters of the channel. The cafés and restaurants here vary from simple to gourmet level and can offer all the local specialities. Not just a day’s walking but a real day’s holiday as well! B/-/-
(Walking time: 4h15 | Ascent/Descent: +21m/-21m | Approx. Km: 17km; 10.5mi;)
Day 8. Individual departure or extra days B/-/-
At convenient time transfer to Faro Airport or Faro Train station.
Necessary equipment: sturdy walking boots and walking socks, a small rucksack, a water bottle with at least 1 litre capacity, sunglasses, sunhat, sun cream, rainwear, insect repellent.
Price Includes: 7 nights in a twin standard room in Tavira (local touristic tax included)
meals according to the description (B-breakfast; L-lunch; D-dinner;)
All walks
visits and transports as outlined in the program
Transfer from/to the airport in Faro
map and detailed roadbook in English
Not Included: flight tickets
Airport Transfers (except when explicitly laid out in the program)
meals and drinks outside the package
other public transport
entrance fees and other personal expenses
tips
insurance
Extra Services: Solo traveler fee: € 130
