Walking Rota Vicentina North Fishermen’s Trail

Arrive in Cercal, a rural town, the name of which somes from the Latin quercalu (meaning oak), due to the large number of such trees in the area. During your stay, do not miss the 17th century charming parish church.

The first part of the route goes through small farms, with hedges, vegetable gardens and orchards. Here, life follows the rhythm of the sowing. Walk through an arid area, populated with eucalyptus, before reaching a cork oak forest. Here is a true biodiversity hotspot, there are more than 150 different species of plants that appear along the route! About a quarter of these plants are endemic to the Iberian Peninsula, and some only exist on the southwest coast of Portugal. Along the route, you will also catch the scent of aromatic plants, such as lavender, thyme or rosemary.

Then reach Porto Covo a traditional fishing village.

Discover unspoilt beaches, the sand dunes of Ilha do Pessegueiro and wonderful seascapes. The Ilha do Pessegueiro Beach lies facing the island from which it takes its name. The island show evidences of its long history. including a fish salting factory dating from the Roman era and which is believed to have given its name to the island (a derivative of the Latin ‘piscatorius’).

Take the opportunity for a dip in the water on one of these beaches.

Day to relax on the beach or take a stroll in the charming town of Vila Nova de Milfontes.

Cross the River Mira and head to Furnas beach with two distinct parts, a sandy section with calm waters on the Mira estuary and a series of small coves by the cliffs to the south, popular amongst surfers. Continue along the clifftop path with hidden trails leading to rocky coves to reach Almograve.

Today’s walk leads you first to the beautiful beach of Almograve before continuing along the rocky coastline. Then, explore the fishing village of Zambujeira do Mar. This village offers an excellent view over the beach and is a small and very peaceful village. The beautiful beaches are one of the main attractions as its natural environment is one of the best preserved of this region.

Walk to the beaches of Carvalhal, Machados and Amalia. Enjoy a seafood lunch in Azenha do Mar and enjoy the best view on the Rota Vicentina at the Ponta em Branco. Finish the day at Odeceixe.

Spend the day relaxing in Odeceixe or take a trip to the beach. The village is located on the river Seixe and is the dividing point between the Alentejo and Algarve regions. Enjoy a stroll through the village with its crafty shops and bustling bars and cafes in the main square.