Route Overview
Where is the Algarve Coast (Authentic East)?
Hillwalk Tours’ Algarve Coast (Authentic East) hiking tour explores the tranquil eastern coastline of Portugal, following flat coastal trails, nature boardwalks, and quiet inland paths. This route stretches along Portugal’s southeastern coast, between the Spanish border and the town of Faro. The walking trails pass through highlights such as Vila Real de Santo António, Tavira, and Culatra Island, offering views over lagoons, salt pans, and quiet Atlantic beaches.
Why should you walk the Algarve Coast (Authentic East)?
The Authentic East offers a peaceful contrast to the more developed west. An ever-changing coastline of limestone stacks, quiet coves and sandy lagoons, with easy terrain and bird-rich wetlands makes it perfect for walkers interested in nature, photography and cultural heritage. It’s also ideal for those who wish for time to explore traditional Algarve life with plenty of opportunity to enjoy quiet moments in fishing villages that still honour centuries-old traditions. You will experience the architectural blend of Roman, Moorish, and maritime Portuguese influences and traverse protected Natura 2000 zones, like the Ludo trail. The authenticity of the are allows you to taste local food that’s a true reflection of both land and sea.
When is the best time to walk Algarve Coast (Authentic East)?
The best time to explore the Algarve is from late March to June and September to early November, when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are fewer. During summer, the region experiences intense heat, while peak tourist season brings bustling beaches and busy landmarks.
- Spring (March to early June): Best for wildflowers, bird migrations, and comfortable weather (avg. 17–24°C / 63–75°F).
- Summer: Best avoided by long-distance hikers due to intense heat, reaching up to 35°C (95°F).
- Autumn (September to early November): Pleasant hiking temperature and quieter trails, with daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) in September to 18°C (64°F) by November.
- Winter: Mild (12–17°C / 54–63°F), though rain is more frequent—perfect for solitude seekers.
Fun fact: The Algarve sees over 300 days of sunshine a year, making it one of Europe’s sunniest regions.
How long does it take to hike Algarve Coast (Authentic East)?
You can walk a portion of the Algarve Coast (Authentic East) over 4 to 8 days depending on your chosen route and fitness level:
- Shorter itineraries focus on iconic highlights
- Longer options cover a broader variety of terrain
- Daily distances range from an average of 8 to 12 km (5-8 miles), with three difficulty levels to choose from
Tour Route
Types of Trails
Choosing the right hiking tour for you can be, at times, tricky. It is always important to consider your own physical capability and comfort levels.
For example, at Hillwalk Tours, we have grouped each trail route we offer into three categories depending on personal preference and fitness levels. These are – gentle, moderate, and challenging. Each of these categories, depending on the destination, will include anything from 4 to 13-day itineraries, with customers given the option to add rest days where they see fit.
Our gentle hikes are perfectly suited for those who would consider themselves as a part-time hiker who enjoys taking photos and meeting locals while taking in the spectacular scenery. Our moderate hikes will suit people who are used to regular exercise and appreciate the opportunity of covering plenty of ground each day without going beyond their limits. Finally, our challenging hikes are for hikers who look to set off early in the morning and not stop until they have reached their destination.
With regards to our Algarve Coast (Authentic East) tours, we only offer gentle hikes, with the following average hiking distance and time each day:
Gentle: Between 5 and 15 km (3-9.5 miles) per day.
Hillwalk Tours Guide Notes
If you decide to walk the trail with Hillwalk Tours, you will receive a detailed walking pack once you have fully booked your hiking holiday. This walking pack will include detailed Ordnance Survey (OS) maps and unique route notes and walking directions written and constantly updated by our route development team. By personally walking each trail and creating our own detailed route notes, it allows us to provide more itineraries, route options and alternatives than what you will typically find across generic guidebooks. It also includes GPS tracks meaning you will never have to worry about getting lost.
Starting and Finishing Point
Many of our Authentic East tours begin in the historic fishing town of Olhão, where charming whitewashed houses line the waterfront and bustling traditional markets set the tone for an immersive coastal journey. From here, travelers venture into the heart of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, exploring tranquil island villages and scenic wetlands before making their way east along the Algarve coast. The tour concludes in the picturesque town of Tavira, where cobbled streets, salt flats and stunning lagoon views provide a fitting end to this unforgettable experience. With seamless transitions between coastal, island and inland landscapes, this route showcases the Algarve’s rich natural beauty and cultural heritage from start to finish.
Sample Algarve Coast (Authentic East) Itineraries
The following are examples of Hillwalk Tours Gentle, Moderate and Challenging itineraries of hiking (Authentic East).
Algarve Coast (Authentic East) 6-Day Gentle
Day 1: Arrival in Tavira
Day 2: Altura – Vila Real de Santo António (12 km / 7.5 miles)
Day 3: Quinta do Marco – Tavira (15 km / 9.5 miles)
Day 4: Pedras d’el Rei – Fuseta (12 km / 7.5 miles)
Day 5: Tavira Island (Ilha de Tavira) – Tavira (13 km / 8 miles)
Day 6: Departure from Tavira
Algarve Coast (Authentic East) 7-Day Gentle
Day 1: Arrival in Olhão
Day 2: Culatra Island (Ilha da Culatra) (4.5 km / 3 miles)
Day 3: Ludo Nature Trail (12-15 km / 7.5-9.5 miles)
Day 4: Altura – Vila Real de Santo António (12 km / 7.5 miles)
Day 5: Pedras d’el Rei – Fuseta (12 km / 7.5 miles)
Day 6: Tavira Island (Ilha de Tavira) – Tavira (13 km / 8 miles)
Day 7: Departure from Tavira
Algarve Coast (Authentic East) 8-Day Gentle
Day 1: Arrival in Olhão
Day 2: Culatra Island (Ilha da Culatra) (4.5 km / 3 miles)
Day 3: Ludo Nature Trail (12-15 km / 7.5-9.5 miles)
Day 4: Altura – Vila Real de Santo António (12 km / 7.5 miles)
Day 5: Quinta do Marco – Tavira (15 km / 9.5 miles)
Day 6: Pedras d’el Rei – Fuseta (12 km / 7.5 miles)
Day 7: Tavira Island (Ilha de Tavira) – Tavira (13 km / 8 miles)
Day 8: Departure from Tavira
Hillwalk Tours (Authentic East) Map
The Algarve Coast Path Terrain
This route offers a mix of coastal trails, sandy island paths and countryside tracks, winding through the Ria Formosa Natural Park and inland farmland. Mostly flat with occasional gentle inclines, it blends boardwalks, beach sections and shaded village streets for a varied yet accessible walk. Short ferry and train rides connect stages, ensuring smooth transitions while stunning scenery unfolds at every step. Designed for all levels, it combines nature, history and cultural exploration for a rewarding experience.
Waymarking
There is no single waymarked trail, but all walks follow local paths supported by Hillwalk Tours’ route notes and maps.
Difficulty
This trail is designed with a slower pace in mind. This allows the walker to really soak up the environment – and prevents them from overheating!
Sights & Attractions
1. Tavira
Tavira is filled with history and charm. Excellent for renaissance architecture, salt pans and historic charm. Climb the Castelo de Tavira for sweeping views over terracotta rooftops and saltpans.
Known as the most beautiful town in the Algarve and also as the “Venice of the Algarve” due to its picturesque plazas, the Gilão River, its whitewashed buildings and bougainvillea-lined streets. This laid-back town offers a wealth of attractions, including a Moorish-origin castle rebuilt in the 18th century, the Gothic Santa Maria do Castelo Church, and a seven-arch Roman bridge. Its location on a railway line facilitates easy day trips, while the nearby Ilha de Tavira boasts beautiful beaches accessible by boat. Further cultural attractions include a science centre, an Islamic Museum and an art gallery. Beyond its landmarks, Tavira provides opportunities to enjoy local markets, fresh seafood, and traditional Portuguese fado music, making it an excellent base for exploring the Algarve.
2. Culatra Island
Culatra Island offers a peaceful escape with its charming fishing village, where whitewashed houses line the streets and a unique off-grid lifestyle thrives in a car-free environment. The island retains an authentic and beautiful air, its character shaped by the close-knit community of fishermen and their families. The sand dunes and salt marshes provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography, while wooden boardwalks lead to Praia da Culatra, granting easy access to its quiet, uncrowded beaches. It is one of the six barrier islands that protect the waterways of the Ria Formosa Natural Park from the rigorous waves of the Atlantic Ocean. The Cabo de Santa Maria Lighthouse can be visited on Wednesdays and on other days during the holiday season. If you are fit enough you can climb the 220 steps to the top!
3. Ludo Nature Trail
Ludo Nature Trails offer a diverse landscape of saltpans, pine forests and wetlands, creating a scenic and immersive walking experience. The area is a haven for birdlife, with regular flamingo sightings adding a splash of color to the serene surroundings. Moving through the pine forests, walkers enjoy shaded sections filled with fresh, earthy scents and occasional glimpses of the sea. Elevated wetland boardwalks wind through protected tidal flats, providing a close-up view of the rich ecosystem while ensuring a smooth and enjoyable walk.
4. The Anchor Graveyard at Praia do Barril
The Anchor Graveyard – aka Cemitério das Âncoras – rows of rusting tuna boat anchors set into the dunes as a striking memorial to Tavira’s lost fishing industry. At peak times you can ride the mini narrow-gauge train from Pedras d’El Rei through marshes to the beach.
5. Ria Formosa Natural Park
This migratory bird haven is a birdwatcher’s paradise and is best explored near Olhão. Over 200 types of birds have been seen here, including some very rare or endangered ones. It’s a great spot for migrating birds to rest each spring and autumn because of its natural surroundings. The Ria Formosa lagoon system was once a vital trade and salt-harvesting hub. The park stretches about 60 kilometers (40 miles) from Faro to Tavira. It’s a natural maze of islands, sandbars, lagoons and marshes that constantly change with the tides. You can spot flamingos, spoonbills and stilts in the saltpans and lagoons of this protected coastal lagoon system. Also look out for the Purple Swamphen, the bird used as the symbol for the Park.
Wildlife
The Algarve’s diverse landscapes support a remarkable variety of wildlife, offering nature enthusiasts the chance to spot unique species across coastal, wetland, and forested areas.
In estuaries and salt marshes, graceful flamingos and herons gather, wading through shallow waters in search of fish and crustaceans. These wetlands serve as vital resting points for migratory birds traveling between Europe and Africa.
Along rugged cliffs and coastal headlands, peregrine falcons soar, hunting with precision, while seabirds such as gulls, cormorants, and terns nest in rocky outcrops, thriving in the windswept environment.
In the Mediterranean scrublands, Iberian rabbits dart through dense foliage, while lizards bask on sun-warmed stones. Occasionally, chameleons, a rare sight in Portugal, can be spotted blending into the greenery.
Did you know? Flamingos owe their iconic pink color to their diet! The carotenoids found in algae and shrimp get metabolized, turning their feathers a beautiful shade of pink. Without these pigments, flamingos would actually be grey or white!
History of The Algarve Coast
The Algarve’s eastern coast has been shaped by centuries of cultural exchange, conquest and trade. Long before it became a peaceful walking route, this region was home to Phoenician traders, Roman settlers and Moorish rulers, all of whom left their mark on the landscape and architecture.
Tavira was once a major port under Islamic rule (8th–13th centuries), its skyline still crowned by the remains of a Moorish castle and a Roman bridge—though the current version likely dates to the 17th century. The town’s many churches were built after the Christian Reconquista, when Tavira grew rich from trade with North Africa and Brazil.
Along the coast, salt production has been a constant for over 2,000 years. Roman ruins, including salt tanks and fish-salting workshops, have been uncovered near Tavira and Cacela Velha. Even today, the traditional white pyramids of hand-harvested salt glint in the sun beside tidal flats, continuing a legacy that supported ancient economies.
Further east, Vila Real de Santo António was a model Enlightenment town. Built in 1774 by order of the Marquis of Pombal, its grid layout and grand central square reflect Portugal’s ambitions to modernise after the 1755 Lisbon earthquake.
Among the region’s historical figures, Lutegarda Guimarães de Caires stands out for her contributions to women’s rights and social reform in the early 1900s. She fought for better conditions for female prisoners and introduced the tradition of bringing clothes, toys and sweets to children in hospitals at Christmas. Her award-winning poetry and journalism furthered the cause of equal opportunities and property rights for women, leaving a lasting impact on Portuguese society.
From narrow-gauge railways and medieval wells to baroque chapels and Islamic water systems, the eastern Algarve is steeped in layers of history, quietly waiting to be discovered on foot.
Did you know?
Chameleons live here – The eastern Algarve is one of the only places in mainland Europe where you might (if you’re lucky) spot a Mediterranean chameleon slowly navigating a branch. Their camouflage is so good, locals call them invisíveis.
The Algarve Coast Pop Culture
Film and TV
On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969)
A James Bond film that includes scenes shot in Portugal, showcasing its picturesque locations. This was the only film in the 007 franchise to star George Lazenby.
The Right Juice (2014)
A comedy-drama filmed entirely in the Algarve, highlighting its rural landscapes.
Sunburn
Sunburn is a British drama series that aired on BBC One from 1999 to 2000. The show follows the lives of a group of British holiday reps working for Janus Holidays, navigating the ups and downs of their jobs while dealing with personal relationships and workplace drama. The first season was set and filmed in Cyprus, while the second moved to the Algarve, Portugal.
The Infernal Machine (2022)
A psychological thriller shot in southern Portugal, including locations in the Algarve.
Die Screaming, Marianne (1971)
A thriller that used the Algarve’s dramatic cliffs and beaches as a setting.
The Ninth Gate (1999)
Starring Johnny Depp and Emmanuelle Seigner and directed by Roman Polanski, this occult masterpiece features scenes filmed in nearby Sintra.
Books
The Algarve: A Cultural History by Patrick Swift
The book offers deep context for the region’s heritage, exploring the traditions and landscapes of Portugal’s Algarve region. atrick Swift, an Irish painter and writer, lived in the Algarve and was deeply involved in its artistic and cultural scene. His work often reflected the natural beauty and historical depth of the region.
Food and Drink
Cataplana de Marisco
A rich seafood stew cooked in a copper pot, featuring clams, prawns, squid and fish, infused with white wine and herbs.
Frango da Guia (Piri Piri Chicken)
Spicy grilled chicken, marinated in chili, garlic and olive oil, originating from the town of Guia.
Conquilhas à Algarvia
A dish of succulent clams, sautéed with onions, garlic and Portuguese sausage, garnished with fresh herbs.
Feijoada
A hearty bean stew with pork, cured meats and vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal.
Dom Rodrigo
A traditional Algarve dessert made with egg yolks, almonds and sugar, wrapped in colorful foil.
Is The Algarve Coast (Golden South West) Vegan Friendly?
The vegan diet has become more and more popular throughout Europe in recent years, and you will find that there are plenty of vegan options available in most eateries. Each of the accommodation we work with at Hillwalk Tours have given us their guarantee that vegan breakfasts will be catered for once they have been informed. That being said, some of the more rural locations of the trail may have limited options so we advise bringing certain items such as plant-based milk, nut butters or protein powders if you so choose.
In addition, the following apps show restaurants which offer vegetarian and/or vegan opions:
Nearby Trails
There are various other Irish trails available to you once you have completed Hadrian’s Wall Path. Here are the other Hillwalk Tours English hiking tours we offer:
The Algarve Coast (Golden South West) Tips and FAQs
What should I pack to prepare for The Algarve Coast?
Probably one of the most common questions asked when walking The Algarve Coast (Golden South West) or any other hiking trail for that matter is – what will I pack?
Once you have fully booked your Hillwalk Tours hiking holiday, you will receive a detailed ‘recommended equipment’ list inside your Walking Pack. For those who are still unsure of what to bring, here are some of the things we advise you bring with you along The Algarve Coast (Golden South West):
– Waterproof Clothes
– Fleece and other warm clothing
– Base Layer
– Light and comfortable trousers
– Wicking Socks
– Suitable Hiking Boots
– Backpack/Rucksack
– Hat and Gloves
– First Aid Kit & Foil Blanket
– Whistle & Torch
– Insect Repellent & Midge Net
– Mobile Phone
– Plug Adapter/Converter
For more on what to pack – check out these packing musts.
Are dogs allowed on The Algarve Coast (Golden South West)?
If you are thinking of bringing your four-legged friend with you, it is important to note various situations. It is advised that dogs are always kept on a short lead and close to their owners at all times. Although there are no restrictions on bringing your furry friend with you on the The Algarve Coast (Golden South West), it should be noted that there are stray dogs and wild animals that my pose a confrontation with your dog. It is imperative to keep an eye out for signage along the way that may forbid dogs on certain parts of the trail. The Portuguese Summer can be very hot which could be uncomfortable for your dog. The majority of accommodation providers on The Algarve Coast (Golden South West) do not allow dogs inside. Realistically, it may be more hassle than it is worth, and it might also distract you from taking in the spectacular views and remaining in the present moment.
It is not possible to bring your dog on a Hillwalk Tours hiking holiday. Unfortunately, the majority of our accommodation providers do not accept pets of any kind. Furthermore, on many of the trails you will pass through farmlands where livestock are present, and where dogs are not permitted as a result.
How safe is The Algarve Coast The Algarve Coast (Golden South West)?
Generally, very safe. The villages and towns are friendly and as always there is great camaraderie amongst walkers when they meet. Locals are very welcoming.
Is The Algarve Coast (Golden South West) suitable for solo hikers?
Yes, solo hikers are more than welcome to complete the The Algarve Coast (Golden South West). However, due to the limited availability of single rooms along the trail, it is important to note that booking early is recommended, in addition to a single supplement charge also being applicable.
How do I train for The Algarve Coast (Golden South West)?
We believe that the beauty of the countryside should be enjoyed by everyone. With this in mind, we designed our hiking tours to cater for practically all levels of fitness. Our range of ‘Gentle’, ‘Moderate’ and ‘Challenging’ hikes in all regions allows you to decide how far you wish to walk each day and the pace you set. So, whether you are a novice walker or an experienced hiker, we have the tour to suit you.
Can I cycle The Algarve Coast (Golden South West)?
No, you cannot cycle the route. It is a dedicated hiking trail and the sandy surface doesn’t make for a great cycle tour.
When can I start my The Algarve Coast (Golden South West) Tour?
You can start your hiking tour on any day or date you wish within the walking season. Generally, the walking season for most of our hiking tours takes place between March to October, but there are some exceptions. July and August are generally too hot to hike in this part of Europe. Please see the individual trail pages for further information on the start and end dates of the walking season for each individual trail we offer.
Does a 7-Day tour include 7 days walking?
Our 7-Day tours include 5 days of hiking. The first and last days of all our hiking tours are travel days used to transfer to/from the town where your hike will begin/end. If you would like to hike for 7 days, simply select one of our 9-Day tours.
What is included in my Hillwalk Tours Walking Pack
Once final payment for your tour has been received, you will be sent an email with a digital PDF copy of your walking pack documents such as your route notes, accommodation details and evening meal suggestions etc. You will also be posted a walking pack (either to your home address or first accommodation on your tour) which will include essential physical items for your tour such as the required maps for the trail and luggage tags*.
*If you’d prefer to receive a physical copy of your full walking pack documents too, it’s essential that you reply by email within 48 hours of booking your tour in order to let us know.
A breakdown of the documents and items you can expect to find in your walking pack are as follows;
– Route notes (prepared by a member the Hillwalk Tours team who has walked every step of your tour)
– Detailed hiking map(s)
– A high-quality waterproof map-case
– Full details of your accommodations and where you will be staying
– Our tips on the most interesting attractions to visit along the trail
– A look at fascinating local history
– A guide to the best places to eat and drink
– Safety information, emergency contact details & the country code for walkers
The Algarve Coast Image Gallery
Hillwalk Tours
About Us
Hillwalk Tours is an award-winning walking tour operator which specialise in self-guided walking holidays in Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, Portugal and along the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Our goal is to create happy experiences for all of our customers, suppliers & staff.
Fill out the form below with any questions you may have and we will get back to you promptly.
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Leave No Trace
We like to walk in nature and since you are reading this – we believe you do too! It is important to ensure that our impact on the environment is limited so that hikers can enjoy the same view after us. The rule applies: when you leave, make sure that nature looks the same as when you arrived or simply put “leave no trace.” As more and more people take to the great outdoors, our collective mark on the environment increases.
What does this mean in reality? Of course, do not leave any rubbish or waste behind. Do not collect stones, flowers, or other “souvenirs”. Don’t carve your name on a tree or break branches… I think you get the drift. It is imperative for walkers to play their part in making sure litter, damage to vegetation and all forms of pollution are limited.
Noise can also be a form of pollution. Whoever walks through a forest talking and laughing loudly, for example, ruins the peace and quiet of other walkers, who can no longer hear the birds. The same goes for cell phones that suddenly start ringing. Keep the volume down and respect your surroundings. Ultimately, the point is to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy walking through nature. So that applies to you, but also to those who tread the path after you.
Hillwalk Tours proudly supports sustainable tourism and loves the countryside as it is – wild, peaceful and clean. We are proud to support the “Leave No Trace” initiative that aims to preserve the natural beauty of each nations countryside where we offer hiking holidays. We try to create happy experiences for our accommodation too, and the restaurants, shops and taxi companies that serve our walkers. These are often small businesses located in isolated areas that have been left behind by urban migration and a lack of investment in rural regions. Their warm hospitality and friendly welcomes epitomise the magic of a Hillwalk Tour and we’re dedicated to helping keep these rural communities alive.
The Benefits of Hiking
In recent years, walking and hiking outdoors has been widely reported to have numerous physical and mental health benefits. The following are examples of some of these benefits:
- Improve strength and fitness
- Weight loss
- Muscle gain
- Improve metabolism
- Improve digestion
- Better quality sleep
- Increase in Vitamin D
- Improve discipline
- Sense of achievement
- Living in the present moment
Hiking Equipment List
For a more in-depth list of recommended hiking equipment list, click here.
