Walking the Eastern Algarve

Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)

Total ascent: 30m

Our first full day explores Ria Formosa Nature Park – one of the most important wetland areas in Southern Portugal. Stretching for over 60km along the Algarve coast, this magnificent estuary is a magnet for hundreds of bird species migrating from Northern Europe to Africa plus a host of rare reptiles. This walk trails the golden sands of Ilha de Tavira – a stunning offshore island cherished for its wildlife-watching opportunities. After catching the ferry to Quatro Águas, we’ll admire the snow-coloured salt pans as we make our way back to Tavira.

Distance: 10 miles (16km)

Total ascent: 50m

Option 2 follows the same route as option 1 but lengthens things by starting in the inland village of Livramento. This is a walk to explore the Ria in all its glory following the park’s network of paths that snake between salt marshes, lagoons, and tidal flats towards the Ilha de Tavira.

Distance: 5.5 miles(9km)

Total ascent: 220m

This popular trail passes through the traditional villages that typify Tavira’s countryside. Along the way, we’ll enjoy far-reaching views over the Serra do Caldeirão – a gently undulating mountain range that forms the border between the Algarve and Alentejo regions. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of the impressive Bonelli’s Eagle flying overhead. With a wingspan of up to 180cm, it’s one of the largest birds of prey on the Iberian Peninsula.

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Total ascent: 300m

Today’s longer route enjoys all the same highlights as option 1 but continues to the town of Cachopo. Alongside honey, wool, and cheese, this mountain hamlet is famous for its handmade copper cooking pots and traditional schist granaries. Dating from the 12th and 13th centuries, these structures are made from local slate and blend seamlessly into the sun-kissed landscape. Equally visit-worthy is the Santo Estevão Mother Church in Cachopo a whitewashed chapel that has been a place of pilgrimage since the 1500s.

Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)

Total ascent: 30 m

Our walk today follows the Ecovia, a Path that extends from the east to the west of the Algarve, alongside the Ria Formosa, orange groves and saltpans. This is an area renowned for its rich birdlife, sea salt quality and tranquillity.

Distance: 7.5 miles (12km)

Total ascent: 30m

This walk follows the same trail as option 1, before lengthening the route to arrive in Olhão, with its historic narrowed streets, cubist houses, street art murals and one of the oldest, most famous markets in the Algarve.

Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5km)

Total ascent: 10m

Our walks today explore the wonderful sandy beaches and charming fishing villages between Tavira and the Guadiana River – the watery border between Portugal and Spain. Option 1 begins in the coastal resort of Altura and continues through Monte Gordo to the town of Vila Real de Santo António perched on the banks of the Guadiana. On arrival, there’s free time to explore the upmarket marina area, take in the views from Faro del Vila Real de Santo António lighthouse, or stop for lunch in one of the many fine restaurants.

Distance: 10 miles (16km)

Total ascent: 10m

Option 2 begins in the stunning coastal town of Cacela Vehla. Located within Ria Formosa Nature Park, this seaside beauty spot is most famous for its impressive sea-facing fortress which offers excellent views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. After leaving Cacela behind, this route visits the picturesque seaside village of Manta Rota before rejoining the same path as option 1.

Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)

Total ascent: 245m

This walk takes us along the course of the Guadiana River from the charming waterfront resort of Laranjeiras to Guerreiros do Rio before circling back via the scentic hilltop town of Corte das Donas. Along the way, there’ll be the chance to visit the Roman ruins at Montinho das Laranjeiras and learn about life in the borderlands between Portugal and Spain in the River Museum.

Distance: 8.5 miles (14km)

Total ascent: 255m

The longer walk on our final day ticks off several incredible highlights. We’ll hike up to Miradouro do Pontal to gaze out across the Guadiana River into southern Spain, explore the ruins of a once mighty Moorish castle, and follow sections of an old smuggling route once used to transport illicit goods into Spain.