Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Nature Parks
The finest preserved stretch of European coastline.
Hidden Paths of Portugal
South West Alentejo and Vicentine Nature Parks
Get to know the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Nature Parks on our spring break to Portugal with our Partners from Tracks and Trails- the finest preserved stretch of European coastline. Over three moderate-level walks explore not only the coast but also the small towns of Odeceixe, Monchique and Ajezur and the mountains of the northwest Algarve. Alentejo offers miles of wild and often secluded beaches carved into cliffs. Large areas of the coast and countryside are protected as natural parks and reserves where some of the most precious flora and fauna can be found. Far from the hustle and bustle of other more touristy areas of the Algarve visit the heart of the Costa Vicentina. This protected area includes 100 rare species of plant life, 30 certified habitats a number of endemic species, birdlife and fish that play an important role in the biggest marine park on Portugal. Many rare bird species can be seen, such as rare fishing eagles as well as white storks that build their nests in the seashore rocks, which is unique to this area.
Reaching Picota
Tailor-made trips – bespoke to WALX
Highlights
Bespoke walking trip
- Hike the rugged coastline of the Fisherman’s Trail
- Find nesting stalks and ancient settlements on the Arrifana cliffs
- Summit the highest two peaks in the Algarve
- Explore the historic towns of Aljezur and Monchique
- Relax on the golden sands of Odeceixe beach
- Try local cuisine inspired from the sea and mountains
- Optional: yoga on the final afternoon
Odeceixe River
Itinerary
Discovering Portugal’s Wild Coast & Mountain Peaks
Day 1 begins with arrival at Faro Airport and transfer to the charming riverside village of Odeceixe, where there’s time to explore before a welcome meeting and dinner. On Day 2, we follow the stunning Fishermen’s Trail from the Seixe River to Zambujeira do Mar, passing dramatic cliffs, beaches, and wildflower-strewn dunes before returning to Odeceixe. Day 3 takes us to historic Aljezur and Arrifana for a coastal hike past ancient forts, nesting storks, and the 12th-century Ribat fortress, ending at Monte Clérigo beach before heading into the mountains to our guesthouse in Monchique. Day 4 offers a double summit challenge—ascending Fóia, the Algarve’s highest peak, and Picota, its second highest—while enjoying panoramic views, forest trails, and time to explore the picturesque town of Monchique. The journey concludes on Day 5 with a scenic transfer back to Faro, with an optional stop in Lagos depending on flight times.
Monchique
Montalma is located at Montes da Foia, a short walk away from Fóia the highest point of the Algarve. Escape from everything and enjoy the view from this fabulous vantage point
Accommodation
Two characterful, family run hotels
On this trip, we will spend two nights in each hotel listed below. We always aim to accommodate our guests in well-situated, clean, characterful, family-run accommodation. All of our trips are based on two people sharing a bedroom, what we call a ‘twin’ means two single beds in one bedroom. If you are booking as a single traveller, you will share with someone of the same gender. In many cases, a single room is available for a supplementary fee, but these can be in short supply and require early booking. Note that it is very rare to have air conditioning in European mountain areas, and most bedrooms do not have this facility. If you have any questions about the accommodation, please contact us.
Picota summit cairn
Terrain and Fitness
Moderate Level
Designed to be suitable for most walkers in good health who exercise regularly. These walking holidays are predominantly on good paths and at an altitude of between 1000m (3280ft) and 2500m (8202ft). We would expect you to have had some experience of walking in the mountains. You should be prepared to deal with hiking in bad weather if necessary. Expect to walk for between 4-6 hours per day and with ascent and descents of up to 800m (2624ft) per day.
Casas do Moinho
The Casas do Moinho offers accommodation in old village houses that have been converted into contemporary bed and breakfast style accommodation.
The Finer Points
Arrival and Departure, Prices
- Arrival & Departure
The meeting point for this trip is Faro Airport, Portugal at 12h45 in the Arrivals hall on Sunday 10th May 2026.
Flights
Faro has flights from various European destinations and many UK airports. Skyscanner can help you to source the best option.
Arrival at Faro Airport
We have included a single-timed transfer from Faro Airport to Odeceixe on the arrival day.
Our departure/pick up time from Faro airport is scheduled to meet the Ryanair flight from Birmingham arriving at 11h55 on Sunday 10 May 2026.
Departure from Faro Airport
We have included a single-timed transfer from Monchique to Faro Airport on the trip Departure day in order to take the Ryanair flight to Birmingham, leaving at 14h25 on Thursday 14 May 2026.
What’s Included – Organisational fee and set up costs, the services of a fully qualified International Mountain Leader, a fully qualified Mountain Leader & WALX Master, Four nights half board accommodation in two accommodations, including local taxes. All transport during the holiday, including airport transfers from/to Faro.
What’s Not Included – Flights, Travel, Insurance, Lunches, Drinks, Yoga class
Price – From £1480