The Fisherman’s Trail Portugal: Guide and Itinerary

The Fisherman’s Trail Portugal offers a remarkable hiking experience along its breathtaking coastline. Before delving into the Fisherman’s trail Portugal itinerary and our personal experiences, let’s begin with some key details about this remarkable trail. You can also find the Fisherman’s trail map further in this article.

Before we dive into the specifics, we may need to clarify the differences in the names you may have heard like Rota Vicentina, Fisherman’s trail, Historical Way, Circular Way, Caminho Atlantico, GR11,and so on. The Fisherman’s Trail we will be discussing further in this blog post is part of the Rota Vicentina network. this network of trails includes both the Fisherman’s Trail and the Historical Way. The Fisherman’s Trail primarily follows the coastline, offering stunning views of the ocean, while the Historical Way takes a more inland route, passing through rural landscapes, forests, and historical towns and villages. While the Fisherman’s Trail Portugal primarily follows the coastline, it does intersect with and connect to other trails within the network.

The key trails that intersect or connect with the Fisherman’s Trail Portugal:

1. Historical Way (also known as Caminho Histórico): It intersects with the Fisherman’s Trail at various points. The Historical Way markings are red and white. Officially begins in the town of Santiago do Cacém and ends in the town of Cabo de São Vicente. The latter is situated near Sagres and is known for its iconic lighthouse, marking the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe.
2. Local Trails: In addition to the main Fisherman’s Trail and Historical Way, there are numerous local and regional trails in the Alentejo and Algarve regions of Portugal. These trails may intersect with or connect to the Rota Vicentina network, providing further options for exploration.
3. Circular Routes: There are several circular routes and alternative paths that connect to the Fisherman’s Trail (Rota Vicentina) and provide opportunities for shorter hikes or loops. These circular routes often start and end at points along the Fisherman’s Trail, allowing hikers to explore specific areas more thoroughly. The markings have red and yellow colors.

How to reach the starting point:

Depending on your starting point (e.g., Lisbon, Porto, Faro), consider taxis or buses. We traveled from Faro via taxi. It costed us somewhere between 30-50 euro, but we didn’t know as this was prebooked for us by the travel аgency.

Best time to walk the Fisherman’s trail Portugal: 

Best Seasons: While summer is hot and bustling (particularly in July and August), May offers milder temperatures. October and early November might be also ideal for hiking. December to March is also an option, though be prepared for chilly ocean winds. We hiked in late August and early September, enjoying constant 23-degree weather. The ocean breeze was refreshing along the cliff-lined sections, and occasional clouds made it perfect for hiking. While we were fortunate not to encounter rain, it’s wise to pack rain gear if it’s in the forecast.

We opted for a luggage delivery service, which definitely made our hiking experience much more enjoyable and we could bring extra clothes and belongings with us. We had to leave the luggage at the hotel’s reception in the morning around 8 am, and it had typically arrived before check-in time, around 3 pm. In terms of pricing and transport companies, we recommend Vicentina Transfers. From our personal experience, we found the company to be extremely accurate and in time with the luggage, and we felt that the luggage was secure at all times. It costs 15 Euro per stage for 1 suitace/bag (no more than 20kg though).

Most hotels provide breakfast, which was consistently delightful with a variety of options. Advance booking is advisable, especially during the peak months between June and August. Below is a list of the hotels we stayed in. We were very happy with all the services at the hotels, including cleanliness and friendly staff. But what we should warn is that some of the stars of some of the hotels were either missing or were too much than what was stated in the booking system ans websites. But truly we had no bad feelings about any of the places below. Here are the hotels we stayed in and links to Booking website.

The trail may seem challenging due to sand dune walking, limited shade, and potential strong sun. Prepare with sun protection, water, and a light backpack. While there are a few ascents and descents, as well as quite long flat stretches, the difficulty depends on your physical fitness. We found it manageable, often stopping at scenic beaches and cliffs along the way.

The Fisherman’s Trail (Rota Vicentina) rewards hikers with stunning natural beauty, ocean views, secluded beaches, dramatic cliffs and diverse landscapes. While most stages follow the coastline, some venture inland, adding variety to the trail. However, we did encountered the consequences of a fire between Arrifana and Carrapateira, which was disheartening. You’ll also encounter charming old villages like Odeceixe and Aljezur and resort-style villages. The breathtaking sunsets, especially from cliff vantage points or golden sandy beaches, are unforgettable. We recommend to enjoy a sunset at Zambujeira do Mar, near Praia de Nossa Senhora.

Essentials include water, food, sun protection (hat and glasses), and rain gear if needed. Pack light to avoid overburdening yourself. Carry any necessary medication and blister plasters. A swimsuit and towel can be handy for impromptu beach stops. We recommend bringing essential electronics (phone, camera, etc.) and valuables like documents, debit/ credit cards and passports, to ensure they remain safe during the hike. We brought with us also walking poles, but these are optional.

Most cities and villages along the route have supermarkets. While the food selection may be limited in most of the village supermarkets we stoped, it’s sufficient for your needs. We dined at a few notable restaurants, including one in Vila Nova de Milfontes (buffet-style dinner at our hotel HS Milfontes Beach), Aljezur (scenic view and great service at restaurant Várzea), and Sagres (Fermento food and wine, perfect for celebrating your journey). We also bought bread, vegetables, fruits, snacks, and water for our hikes. Avoid tap water and opt for bottled water, which is inexpensive.

Our overall budget included flights, airport transfers, luggage delivery, and hotel stays with breakfast. Additionally, we spent around 200/270€ on food. Don’t forget to set aside some euros for souvenirs; we found a special ceramic plate in Sagres, right at the entrance of the city, to commemorate our engagement in Zambujeira do Mar.

Follow the links below for a day-to-day itinerary to learn how each day went for us on the Fisherman’s trail Portugal. In the articles we include also the Fisherman’s trail map and pictures from every day. Find inspiration for your daily hikes and know what to expect!

As our hiking journey along the Fisherman’s train comes to an end, we find ourselves reflecting on the remarkable experiences we had. Thes different stages of the trail, each with its own distinct character, have allowed us to uncover the multifaceted beauty of Portugal’s southwestern coast. From the alluring embrace of the Atlantic along the Fisherman’s Trail (Rota Vicentina) to the inland routes along the small mountain tops, every step has been a revelation.

In the Rota Vicentina, we’ve discovered a network of trails that offers hikers the freedom to craft their own narrative. Whether you choose the Fisherman’s Trail or the Historical Way, or perhaps a seamless blend of both, this trail network ensures that your journey is uniquely your own. In the end, the Fisherman’s trail is more than just a collection of paths—it’s an invitation to create memories, embark on adventures, and savor the beauty of Portugal’s southwestern frontier, one step at a time. We hope this Fisherman’s trail Portugal itinerary has provided you with all the necessary information to embark on your adventure.