The 5 Best Algarve Walking Trails

One of the most interesting and environmentally friendly activities to discover in the region is walking in the Algarve. A variety of stunning walking trails have been developed, making for the perfect day out to explore the beautiful Algarve region.

 

Hiking checklist

Before embarking on one of the Algarve walking trails, it’s important to be well-prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. Here’s a short list of essentials to take:

• Adequate footwear (boots or sturdy trainers)
• Trousers (to avoid insect bites and thorns)
• Water (to keep hydrated)
• Suncream (to avoid getting burned)

Below are some recommendations for hiking in the Algarve for you to enjoy alone or with friends and family.

 

The Coast of Lagos

This is one of the most scenic Algarve walking trails, following the cliffs and coves that define Lagos’ coastline. Starting from the centre of town and heading towards Ponta da Piedade, the path is about 10 to 12 kilometres, depending on where you start. 

The limestone cliffs and turquoise coves you’ll see along the way are ones you’ve most probably seen in so many incredible pictures of this area before. If you plan on walking in the Algarve during summer, aim for an early start to avoid the midday sun and bring plenty of water.

If you enjoy mixing hiking in the Algarve with a bit of local culture, Lagos is the ideal base. The route can easily be done as a one-way walk too. Why not stop for a meal in Praia da Luz at Fortaleza da Luz, or Porto de Mós at Taberna da Vila, before heading back? You can also combine the walk with a short kayak or boat trip to explore the sea caves and arches from below, giving you a completely different perspective of the same coastline. The mix of easy access, variety, and breathtaking views makes this one of the Algarve’s must-do trails.

Features / Great things to see:

• The limestone cliffs and sea stacks of Ponta da Piedade
• Panoramic viewpoints like the Praia do Camilo staircase
• Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse (constructed in 1913)
• Hidden coves and natural arches
• Boat or kayak tours through sea caves
• Stunning sunset views from the cliffs

 

Rocha da Pena

Located in the countryside of the Loule region, Rocha da Pena is known as one of the best walking trails in the Algarve. The walking trail is very well marked and lasts around 2.5 hours, making it the perfect family excursion. Along the walk, you will find some cultural heritage, such as the Neolithic walls and the ‘Algar dos Mouros’ caves, where the Moorish inhabitants of Salir sought refuge in the 13th century, and where two endangered species of bat (Lesser Mouse-eared Bat & the Bent-wing Bat) now inhabit. Towards the end of the walk, you will pass the small, beautiful village called Penina.

The first part of the hike involves a climb to the summit known as Talefe, which stands at 479 metres. From here, you’ll see far across the Barrocal region, including valleys, orchards, and villages that sit between the coast and the mountains. If you’re walking in the Algarve during spring, Rocha da Pena bursts into life with wildflowers and orchids, as a place that’s home to more than 450 plant species. 

It’s worth keeping an eye out for wildlife too. It’s known that some people have seen Bonelli’s eagles before. The trail is remote, so it’s best reached by car, but the peace and sense of discovery make it worth the trip.

Features / Great things to see:

• 360° views from the Talefe summit
• Neolithic walls and the Algar dos Mouros cave
• Rare Portuguese wildflowers and orchids
• Chance to spot Bonelli’s eagles and other native birds such as the Iberian Green Woodpecker and the Dartford Warbler
• Shady oak and pine woodland
• Small traditional villages like Penina at the base of the trail

 

Don Quixote Trail

This is one of the best walking trails in the Algarve, particularly if you are after panoramic landscapes and breathtaking views. The Don Quixote trail is notable for its changing landscape, from green orchards and vineyards to oak forests and pine plantations. The most stunning part of the walk is the Odeleite River, also known as the “Blue Dragon River” because of its serpentine curves and deep blue colour. 

This trail starts at the Discovery Centre in the Casas Baixas village near Tavira and takes up to 6 hours covering around 17 kilometres through the countryside, so it’s not for the faint-hearted.

As you make your way along the trail, you’ll pass small hamlets and see the slower pace of inland life. Traditional wells, waterwheels, and terraces make for a reminder of the centuries of farming. The Don Quixote Trail is perfect for anyone wanting to explore the quiet, authentic side of the region, far from the busy beaches.

Features / Great things to see:

• The stunning “Blue Dragon River” (Odeleite River)
• Cork oak forests and pine plantations
• Traditional wells, terraces, and farm ruins
• Rural hamlets and vineyards
• Wide inland views across the Serra region

 

Castelejo Environmental Trail

Short but beautiful, this gentle hike lasts just under 2 hours and winds through the Vicentine Coast Natural Park for 3.5km, crossing pine forest and shrubby vegetation along the way. The trail dips to a gully where you may spot the Western spadefoot toad, depending on the season. Other wildlife includes the spotted woodpecker, Eurasian jay and great tit, as well as wild boar, foxes and rabbits.

This is one of the best walking trails in the Algarve, perfect for photography lovers as well as those who love nature. As the trail circles back, you can also catch glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean and Castelejo beach, which are among the many amazing spots along the Algarve coastline. The terrain is easy but varied, with boardwalks, dirt tracks, and the odd gentle climb.

The Castelejo Environmental Trail is a fantastic way to experience the wilder side of walking in the Algarve without needing to travel far, and you can even end your hike by relaxing at Castelejo Beach. If you’re in the area anyway, you can easily fit this trail into a day of exploring nearby Sagres or Vila do Bispo, both famous for their surfing and incredible history.

Features / Great things to see:

• Castelejo Beach and the Atlantic Ocean
• Pine forest and coastal ravine habitats
• Seasonal lagoon with frogs and dragonflies
• African Tamarisk trees and reed beds
• Birdlife such as hoopoes, falcons, and woodpeckers
• Family-friendly circular route with picnic areas

 

Venta Moinhos Wetlands Trail

Located inside the Castro Marim Nature Reserve near the Guadiana River, the Venta Moinhos Trail is one of the best Algarve walking trails for nature lovers. It’s a gentle, flat route of about 7.5 kilometres that takes around three hours to complete, with the landscape being made up of salt marshes, lagoons, and farmland. 

The area supports hundreds of bird species, including spoonbills, flamingos, and the rare Audouin’s gull. Because the trail runs close to the river, the best time to come is from autumn to spring, when the temperatures are slightly cooler and there’s plenty of bird activity.

Hiking in the Algarve doesn’t get much more peaceful than this. The trail has several viewing platforms and a small interpretation centre where you can learn about the reserve’s ecosystem. Want to get a closer view of the wildlife? Bring some binoculars and get the best view possible. If this sounds like the walking trail for you, then it’s best to drive here and park near Monte Francisco or the Interpretation Centre.

Features / Great things to see:

• Wetlands and salt marsh habitats
• Spoonbills, flamingos, and other migratory birds
• Guadiana River views and International Bridge
• Old border control house with local history
• Interpretation Centre with observation deck
• Quiet, flat path ideal for families and wildlife photography

 

Stay in comfort after a day on the trails

After exploring the Algarve’s beautiful landscapes, there’s nothing better than returning to your own private space where you can relax by the pool, enjoy a glass of wine, and watch the sun set over the hills. 

Whether you’ve spent the day hiking coastal cliffs or wandering through inland villages, having a comfortable base makes all the difference. Our luxury Algarve villas offer exactly that: space, style, and complete privacy in some of the Algarve’s most stunning locations. 

Take a look at our collection of villa rentals, in locations such as Quinta do Lago, to the lively marina and golf courses of Vilamoura, and the exclusivity of Vale do Lobo. If you’d like some help choosing the right villa for your stay, simply contact us today, and our team will be there to guide you.