DAY 1
Arrive in Faro
Arrive at Faro Airport and transfer to the Vila Branca in Lagos
DAY 2
Estômbar and Silves Walk
We start in the traditional Algarve village of Estombar. Along the valley of the river Arade, we visit the Ecological Park of Fontes, an attractive local beauty spot. Here we find the largest limestone springs in the Algarve. At Sitio das Fontes we can see a water mill, learn more about the local flora and fauna while walking along an educational trail. The route itself enables us to explore this river valley following quiet tracks and paths so we can appreciate the diverse habitats and wildlife. The walk ends in Silves, the ancient capital of the Algarve with its iconic castle.
DAY 3
Seven Valleys Walk
Today we take a fantastic coastal walk taking in one of the most famous and dramatic sections of the Algarve coastline. Towering cliffs, sea caves and grottos, superb sandy coves and spectacular headlands including the much photographed Benagil domed caves lined with beautiful sandstone strata. We finish along Carvoeiro’s renowned elevated boardwalk.
DAY 4
Alvor and Praia da Rocha
Today we have a full programme with a fantastic coastal walk taking in the superb sandy beaches and dramatic headlands between Alvor and Portimão, including the much photographed beach at Praia da Rocha, one of the best in the Algarve. The rock strata are particularly varied and very colourful, from white limestone to red sandstone. These different rocks support a wide variety of flora and, in spring, there are impressive displays of wild flowers.
DAY 5
Ponte da Piedade and Lagos
We continue our coastal theme with a spectacular walk starting from the small village and resort of Luz. On this walk we follow a coastal path to Lagos, visiting on the way Ponta da Piedade where the famous sea caves are to be found and visited by many small boats carrying visitors from nearby Lagos. The walk finishes in Lagos and we will have time to sightsee in this attractive town that was an important Roman settlement called ‘Lacobriga’. A variety of ancient Roman & medieval ruins remain, including the old slave market. The town centre, which is enclosed within 5th century walls offers a modern and well equipped marina that dominates the sea front and the town is now firmly positioned as a centre for tourists from all over the world. We have an opt out at Ponte de Piedade allowing people to have a little more time to sightsee in Lagos.
DAY 6
Barão De São João
We head back inland for a walk that takes in the villages of Barão de São João and Barão de São Miguel. These charming, rural and peaceful villages are characterized by the typical white houses with a coloured border around the windows and doors. This and the traditional Algarve chimneys demonstrate the many years of Moorish occupancy of the area. We have an opt out at lunch time allowing people to relax and explore the fascinating village of Barão S. João.
DAY 7
Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente
Our final day on the western Algarve fittingly culminates in Sagres, the most westerly town in the Algarve. This area of intensely dramatic cliffs, opening onto a vast horizon of sea and sky, was the last sight of Europe for the explorers setting forth on their fearsome voyages beyond the horizon. We will also visit today the nearby Cabo de S. Vincente whose spectacular cliffs were once believed to be the end of the world.
DAY 8
Depart for Home
After breakfast you may have some free time to do any last minute local shopping and sightseeing before heading to the airport for your flight home.
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