This is walking on the edge of the land. The Fishermen’s Trail follows the paths that fishermen once took to their spots on the cliffs, and you can feel it: narrow, open, with the ocean beside you almost all the way. It’s a route for walkers who love the sea, the wind and wide views. Technically it’s easy, but the loose sand saps your energy.
You start in Porto Covo and walk through the natural park of the south-west Alentejo and the Costa Vicentina. At Vila Nova de Milfontes you reach the mouth of the Mira. After that, beaches, cliffs and small villages follow one another, including around Odeceixe and Arrifana. At Sagres you stand on the south-westernmost point of Europe, close to Cabo de São Vicente. There the route turns and follows the south coast of the Algarve to Lagos.
The path sometimes runs right along the cliff edge. In strong wind, fog or the dark, keep well away from it. There is little shade, so water and sun protection belong in your rucksack. The best time to walk it is from October to June inclusive. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant, while July and August are hot and busy. In high season, it’s better to book your overnight stays in the villages in advance.