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Along The Algarve Way

There's the Algarve, and then there's the real Algarve! If you wish to see the latter, come and join us on this two-centre holiday which features the best parts of the Via Algarviana long distance path. Walk to the end of Europe!

  • The Algarve

  • 7 nights
  • Half Board with wine included at dinner.
  • Long Distance Paths

    Coast & Islands

  • Feb

    Mar

    May

    Oct

    Nov

  • Average group size: 12-14

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Walking grade

Grade 4

This grade 4 walking holiday includes walks at a moderate pace over undulating terrain along mostly marked footpaths of the Via Algarviana. Half days will be approximately 3 hours of walking and full days will be approximately 5 hours of walking. Walks are generally between 4 miles and 8 miles a day with ascents and descents usually between 200m and 400m. The maximum altitude we will reach on this holiday is 902m at Foia, the highest point of the Algarve.

We'll immerse ourselves in the local culture, visit the local sites of interest and absorb the natural beauty of our surroundings.

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Classic Collection

Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Most dinners taken in local restaurants with wine included.
  • Flexi Walking: make use of our carefully planned shorter routes on many of the walks.
  • Stay in centrally located hotels, within walking distance of the main town and local restaurants.
  • Follow highlights of the Via Algarviana (Algarve Way) long distance path.
  • Explore the highest point of the Algarve, Foia (902m).
  • Walk alongside the tranquil Rio Guadiana on the border between Portugal and Spain.

There’s the Algarve, and then there’s the true Algarve! A world away from the coast below, small villages in the hills above earn their living sustainably with the natural resources available to them, such as cork, honey, and fish. Farmers tend to their crops and shepherds take their sheep and goats out to quiet pastures. Walk sections of the Via Algarviana, the most westerly extension of the Grand European walking route E4/GR13. 

Spanning a remarkable 300 kilometers, the Via Algarviana traces the stunning Algarve region from Alcoutim on the Spanish border to Cape St. Vincent in the west. This trail follows the historic pilgrimage route to Sagres, where the relics of St. Vincent were discovered. As you traverse its course, you'll be enchanted by tranquil landscapes, passing through traditional farms emitting fragrances of lavender, rosemary, thyme, and heather. Alongside the trails, diverse wildlife and birdlife habitats offer a unique way to explore the lesser-known corners of the Algarve.

Our journey commences in Alcoutim, a picturesque village perched on the banks of the River Guadiana. It leads you through southern Portugal to the breathtaking cliffs of Cape Saint-Vincent, Europe's westernmost point. Along the way, we've meticulously selected the finest walks, guiding you through unspoiled villages and historic towns such as Messines, Alte, and Silves. These locales boast cobblestone streets, Moorish influences, and a timeless allure. Throughout the region, you'll encounter a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, with opportunities to spot peregrine falcons, kites, storks, hoopoes, and even the rare Bonelli's eagle. 

If you are interested in this 7 night holiday in the Algarve, why not extend your stay to 14 nights with our Portugal's Algarve Way & Wild Atlantic holiday?

  • Return flights from London to Faro
  • Airport transfers
  • En suite three-star accommodation on bed and breakfast basis
  • Half board with dinners taken in local restaurants and the hotel
  • Wine or soft drinks at evening dinners
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by private coach/public bus/train
  • Services of a Tour Leader
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel Insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

26160

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to the Via Algarviana

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

The itinerary is expected to follow the daily schedule outlined below but please bear in mind that the order of the days may be amended, or walks substituted, due to weather conditions, attraction opening times, public transport timetables or changes beyond our control.

On arrival in Faro airport, you'll transfer by private coach to Monte Gordo. 

Transfer Time = 45m

Day 2

Os encantos de Alcoutim

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

Alcoutim

Alcoutim is a traditional Algarvian town set amongst rolling green hills on the border between Portugal and Spain.

  • Time

    4-5 hours

  • Distance

    8 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    290/160m

Drive along a scenic route to Alcoutim, tracing a beautiful road that runs parallel to the tranquil Rio Guadiana. Alcoutim, a traditional Algarvian town nestled amid rolling green hills on the Portugal-Spain border, invites you to stroll through its charming frontier village. Facing its Spanish counterpart across the river, explore the delightful "Os Encantos de Alcoutim" walk, which marks the beginning of the Via Algarviana. The Rio Guadiana forms a serene centerpiece for this journey, surrounded by orchards of almond, fig, and olive trees.

Opt out point: 8km / 5 miles.

Day 3

Cachopo

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    3-4 hours

  • Distance

    5.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    210/190m

Today, venture into the heart of the Caldeirão Hill Range, where rolling hills unveil enchanting cork oak forests adorned with strawberry trees, heathers, and cistus (rockrose). The landscape is punctuated by small farms, echoing the timeless traditions of yesteryear.

Explore the mountainside village of Cachopo, a uniquely small settlement characterized by its white-washed houses adorned with vibrant windows, doors, and baseboards. Here, amidst a spectrum of bright colors, you'll encounter a village that preserves traditional farming practices and thrives on the production of local delicacies like honey, cheese, wool, and cork. Cachopo offers a glimpse into a community where age-old traditions harmonize with the cultivation of distinctive, regional treasures.

There is no opt out option today.

Day 4

Barrancao do Velho

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    3-4 hours

  • Distance

    9 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    190/440m

Today's journey takes you, along with your luggage, to the village of Barranco do Velho. The day's walk leads us to the charming village of Salir, traversing through lush Mediterranean vegetation that includes the renowned strawberry tree, a key ingredient for the locally cherished "Medronho" liquor. The route unfolds amidst fabulous panoramic views, offering a clear-day spectacle that extends as far as the eyes can see.

After this enriching walk, transfer by road to your next center, continuing your exploration of this captivating region.

Opt out point: 5km / 3 miles, or at 10km / 6 miles.

Day 5

Alte & Silves

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

Silves

Silves, the ancient capital of the Algarve, is a charming town filled with history and Arabic architecture. 

  • Time

    3-4 hours

  • Distance

    4.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    170/210m

Today start in the quaint village of Benafim and walk along the Via Algarviana into Alte, an unspoilt village in the hills of the Serra do Caldeirao. Have time to explore, perhaps visit its craft shops or capture the essence of this picturesque village, famous for its springs and pools, a green oasis famous amongst locals and visitors. Travel to Silves, a town steeped in history and once the ancient capital of the Algarve, with its Moorish castle rising above the town which is set on the banks of the river Arade. Enjoy lunch here and relish free time to wander the picturesque narrow cobbled streets and visit the local monuments. 

There is no opt out option today.

Day 6

Monchique

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    4 hours

  • Distance

    7 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    350m

The walk commences on the hillsides above Monchique, situated at the crossroads of the Algarve and Alentejo regions. Monchique is surrounded by glorious rolling mountains and a sea of forests. Walking from the centre of Monchique and through the narrow cobbled streets, you soon reach the ruins of the Convent of Nossa Senhora do Desterro, founded in 1631.  The Franciscan friars who lived here influenced the population's imagination, and this monument is often visited despite its poor state of conservation. From this vantage point, breathtaking views stretch across the village and the surrounding hills. 

The journey continues through diverse landscape, offering a opportunity to observe the fauna associated with wooded areas, particularly avifauna. Keep an eye out for species such as the green woodpecker, the wren, the jay, the blue tit, among many others. This is one of the most beautiful sections of the Via Algarviana with spectacular views and lush forests with oaks and chestnuts amongst the cork trees. Abundant water sources contribute to making this stretch the greenest part of the Algarve throughout the year.

  • Time

    1-2 hours

  • Distance

    3 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    350m

At the end of the walk there will be time to visit Monchique and we will stop off to admire the views at the mountain of Foia, the highest point in the Algarve. Whilst our coach will take people up to the top of Foia (902m), there is an option to walk to the top from Monchique.

Day 7

Walk to the end of Europe

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

Cape St Vincent

Cape St Vincent is the most south westerly point of Europe, a must see when visiting Portugal.

  • Time

    4-5 hours

  • Distance

    5.7 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    80m

On your final day, trace the route to the final section of the Via Algarviana, navigating the “Parque Natural Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vincentina” towards the majestic cliffs of Cape S. Vincent. 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. It was here that Prince Henry the Navigator established his fortress and began the “age of discoveries” sending ships to explore the world. Enjoy lunch overlooking the dramatic cliffs of the Sagres coast before walking to the end of the world where you'll celebrate the end of your epic journey crossing the Algarve from east to west.

There is no opt out option today.

Day 8

Farewell

Meals

Breakfast

Say goodbye to the Via Algarviana and transfer to Faro airport for the return flight to the UK.

Departure dates for your selected tour

24th Nov 2024 - 1st Dec 2024 (7 Nights)

16th Feb 2025 - 23rd Feb 2025 (7 Nights)

16th Mar 2025 - 23rd Mar 2025 (7 Nights)

25th May 2025 - 1st Jun 2025 (7 Nights)

5th Oct 2025 - 12th Oct 2025 (7 Nights)

9th Nov 2025 - 16th Nov 2025 (7 Nights)

Graphic of map of Portugal and surrounding area based on tour Along the Algarve Way

Travel Details

  • Return flights from from London to Faro.
  • Airport transfers by road c. 1 hour
  • We can offer regional flight options and often there will be up to two transfer vehicles (which may include coaches, minibuses or taxis) from the airport to the hotel and vice versa which will minimise any waiting time at the overseas airport
  • Upgrades are available on most flights. For scheduled flights this may be Premium Economy, Business or First Class. Most low-cost carriers also have extra legroom seats.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

Hotel Baia Beach de Monte Gordo

Scent infused pine forests and gentle rolling hills surround the picturesque beach town of Monte Gordo, located close to the river Guadiana on the Portuguese-Spanish border. Monte Gordo is close to Tavira but has a much slower pace of life than its lively neighbours. Walk along the glorious sandy beaches to the seafront promenade filled with local restaurants, bars and shops. Take a dip in the turquoise sea, the water here is calm and the warmest in Portugal as Monte Gordo’s beaches are sheltered from the cooler Atlantic winds.

You'll stay in the three star Hotel Baia Beach de Monte Gordo, just a short walk from the beach. This modern hotel has been selected for its ideal location in Monte Gordo. Take a dip in the refreshing rooftop pool overlooking the beautiful Algarve coast or perhaps sit back and relax with a drink in its bar area. 

You'll stay in standard twin bedded rooms. Single rooms are usually twin or double bedded for sole use. Room facilities include

  • Ensuite bathroom
  • Hairdryer
  • Safe
  • TV
  • Telephone
  • Free WIFI
  • Air conditioning 

Please note that there are no tea/coffee making facilities in the hotel rooms.

Hotel Riverside

Located on the banks of the Arade River, the modern Hotel Riverside is set in an idyllic location, a short walk away from the town of Portimao with beautiful views across the river. Enjoy tranquillity with a drink in the bar, or perhaps relax in the spa area, which includes a gym, sauna, Turkish bath, jacuzzi and an outdoor and indoor pool. 

You'll stay in twin and double bedded rooms. Single rooms are usually twin or double for sole use. Rooms are modern and include:

  • Ensuite bathroom with shower
  • Free WIFI
  • Air conditioning
  • TV
  • Hairdryer
  • Balcony

Please note that there are no tea/coffee making facilities in the hotel rooms.

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

This grade 4 walking holiday includes walks at a moderate pace over undulating terrain along mostly marked footpaths of the Via Algarviana. Half days will be approximately 3 hours of walking and full days will be approximately 5 hours of walking. Walks are generally between 4 miles and 8 miles a day with ascents and descents usually between 200m and 400m. The maximum altitude we will reach on this holiday is 902m at Foia, the highest point of the Algarve.

We'll immerse ourselves in the local culture, visit the local sites of interest and absorb the natural beauty of our surroundings.

Walks & Excursions

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

Currency in Portugal

The currency in Portugal is the euro. We recommend you take some euro cash with you until you reach an ATM as credit cards may not be accepted in some towns and rural areas so please ensure you always have cash with you.

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

Fly from London to Faro airport on Portugal's Algarve coast. Transfers from Faro Airport to our hotel in Monte Gordo will be by road and will take approximately one hour. On departure day transfer from Armacao de Pera to Faro airport by road, taking approximately 40 minutes. 

On some occasions there may be a slight delay at the airport, and you may have to wait for other regional flights to arrive before continuing on your transfer, and similarly on departure.

During the week you will travel by private coach.  Some transfers may be longer than others, and some transfers can take an hour to reach the start and finish of the walk. A couple of walks may be directly from the hotel. 

If you intend joining and leaving the party in Portugal, we assume, unless you have advised us otherwise, that you will meet and leave the party at hotel. If this is not your intention, please let us know in writing at least 5 weeks before departure.

Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements

If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.

Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.

If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.

Although airport/station transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport/station, depending on your arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.

Please be aware that you must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight/train arrival to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point or independent travel arrangements to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.

Hotel Transfers

When you book a flight or rail inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport/station and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.  

Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents

If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Passports and Visas

European Passport Advice

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.

Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:

  • less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)
  • valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.

Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.

Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.

Meals

Breakfast and dinners are included in the holiday price. Delicious buffet breakfasts can include local seasonal fruit, homemade smoothies and juices, and yoghurt with cereal. Breads, pastries, cakes and cooked food are also provided.

Dinners are taken in a mixture of the hotel restaurants and in local restaurants in the evening. Wine and soft drinks are included at all evening dinners.

Your local guide has extensive knowledge of the area you are staying in, so the local restaurants chosen by your local guide are usually smaller and family run, serving traditional homemade Portuguese food and used by locals. They may not be typical tourist restaurants, but they will usually be traditional and simple restaurants run by a local family found in a quieter road away from the tourist route! Eating in local restaurants allows you to enjoy an authentic experience in a casual traditional Portuguese restaurant, with a lively atmosphere along with local diners and the Portuguese hospitality. 

The Portuguese cuisine is very different to the Mediterranean diet you may expect to find in Spain, Greece and Italy. Portuguese dishes are usually created using locally sourced fresh ingredients, and from homemade traditional recipes shared between family generations. You may hear your local guide mention “like my Grandma used to make”. When travelling with a group, local restaurants will most likely ask you to pre-order from a set menu, which will usually consist of Portuguese soup for starters, and an option between a meat, a fish, and a vegetarian main meal option. The Portuguese cuisine includes a lot of carbohydrates, so you may find your dish includes rice and chips, ideal if you have enjoyed a long day of walking. Portugal is also famous for its seafood and fresh fish and usually it is caught, cooked and eaten the same day! During the first night of your holiday, it is usual that you may not have an option for your meal, so you may expect a typical traditional dinner of Portuguese Chicken and chips. Dietary requirements will be taken care of, and an alternative will be provided. 

Vegetarian options are available if we are advised in advance so please contact our Sales & Reservations department. However please be aware that Portuguese food mostly consists of meat and fish. We do make suggestions on what ingredients to consider to produce a well-balanced and tasty meat and fish free meal, however vegetarian and vegan options can sometimes lack protein. You can, however, guarantee that ingredients will be fresh and locally sourced.

The hotels have been selected for their close location to the main town centre and local restaurants so on some evenings you will be able to walk to local restaurants, on others transport may be provided. During the quieter winter months, many local restaurants close for the season. Therefore, you may eat in the hotel more and you may eat in the same restaurant more than once as availability of open restaurants could be limited.

Lunches are not included in the holiday price and can be taken as picnics or in local cafes.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Swimwear (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Passport (make sure it's yours and valid)
  • Your travel tickets or e-ticket itinerary
  • Any visa or electronic travel authorisation (if required)
  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Your holiday Booking Confirmation document
  • Your travel insurance details
  • Alternative form of identification (such as a driving licence)
  • Photocopy of the personal details' pages of your passport
  • A valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if relevant
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Electricity in Portugal

Electricity is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

Maps, Guidebooks & More

Maps of the areas we visit (1:200 000 scale) are available locally and at specialist map shops in the UK. 

‘The Rough Guide to Portugal’ - Mark Ellingham, John Fisher, Graham Kenyon, Mathew Hancock and Jules Brown.

‘Portugal - A Travellers Guide’ - Susan Loundes (Thornton Cox)

‘Blue Guide: Portugal’ - Ian Robertson

Portugal Official Tourism Website: www.visitportugal.com

Portugal National Tourist office: www.portugaloffice.org.uk

Via Algarviana Website: www.viaalgarviana.org/en/

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for Portugal

No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Portugal. 

You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK. 

You may wish to consider immunisations against Tetanus. 

Dengue fever exists in Portugal; please take normal precautions against mosquito bites.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

If you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you are unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland, please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.

EHIC & GHIC Cards

Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.

It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.

For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic

Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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Useful Information

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Portugal

  • Capital

    Lisbon

  • Currency

    Euro

  • Language

    Portuguese

  • Time Difference

    UTC, UTC +01:00

  • Flight duration

    3hrs from UK

Visas and Passports

No Visa Required

Average weather

  • January

    11°C

    Avg. Rain: 109mm

  • February

    12°C

    Avg. Rain: 93mm

  • March

    13°C

    Avg. Rain: 75mm

  • April

    14°C

    Avg. Rain: 66mm

  • May

    16°C

    Avg. Rain: 52mm

  • June

    19°C

    Avg. Rain: 26mm

  • July

    21°C

    Avg. Rain: 12mm

  • August

    22°C

    Avg. Rain: 16mm

  • September

    20°C

    Avg. Rain: 44mm

  • October

    17°C

    Avg. Rain: 91mm

  • November

    14°C

    Avg. Rain: 111mm

  • December

    12°C

    Avg. Rain: 120mm

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