Walking Portugal's Wild Algarve

A few days since our wonderful week walking Portugal’s coast and beaches and missing it already. Luis and Alex were the perfect guides, with exceptional local knowledge and a phenomenal work ethic! Breath taking scenery and unspoilt beaches, and great way to get fit! Nesting storks and peregrine falcons were such a bonus! Fine hotels throughout, topped off with a touch of luxury in Sagres, restaurants and food excellent all shared with a great group of like-minded travellers.

What a stunning coastline to walk, combined with amazing food, wine tasting and brilliant company. The hotels were great too, way above my expectations. What more could you ask for! Our guides Francisco and Ines were fantastic, so knowledgeable and making sure we were safe on our walks. Would definitely recommend this holiday.

Expectations were high after a two-year delay from our original booking. It was worth the wait! The scenery was spectacular, the weather was perfect and our conditioning didn't let us down. This is a relatively unknown gem for many people - and one not to be missed. Popular with hikers and cyclists alike, hiking definitely gives you the best cliff views. The sea views and fresh breezes, coupled with the dune walks, made the trip. You'll walk across beaches and dunes, through small bush and forest areas, and across trickling brooks and boardwalks, with plenty of local flora and fauna. If you are a photographer or bird watcher, this is the trip for you. This was my first trip to Portugal - I'm already planning the next Exodus Portugal trip!

We both had a wonderful week in May 2023, Walking Portugal's Coast and Beaches, guided by Francisco and Ines. It was theses guides that made a good walk into a fantastic walk. They are a great team, passionate about the history, nature and conservation of the area. They complemented each other like 2 pieces of a jigsaw. We were briefed each preceding evening on the appropriate clothing, type of terrain, difficulty and interesting features to expect. At the end of every day, they encouraged feedback to gauge if we were happy with the speed and terrain. The lunch packs were made up by local bakeries and were appropriate to everyone’s needs. Their choice of hotels and restaurant recommendations were excellent. The coast line is both scenic and dramatic, with every bay and cliff top being pristine and litter free. We visited a vineyard and a Medronho distillery with tasting and snacks provided. We also visited a reconstructed castle in Aljezur, an abandoned village, Aldeia Da Pedralva, which has been restored to its former glory and a huge wall mural dedicated to Amalia Rodrigues a famous female Portuguese melancholic singer. All these visits were very informative. On the first day Francisco and Ines had asked us to share our particular interests and unusually I said “Rocks”. To my surprise and delight both Francisco and Ines made a point of showing me some unusual geological features everyday. They were both careful and courteous and drivers. Had we opted for a self-guided tour we would not have seen, enjoyed nor learnt so much about the region and its excellent well priced eateries. With their local, inside knowledge they were able to tailor the walks, activities and suggestions to take account of the most up-to-date information. All in all, an excellent week of walking rendered outstanding because of the ethos of these 2 guides.

An excellent week walking down the south west coast of Portugal. The views were stunning, hotels were comfortable and food was amazing. A special mention for our guides Francisco and Ines who were friendly and knowledgeable, going above and beyond to ensure we all had a wonderful time. The walking is mostly straightforward, but there is some walking across soft sand dunes. Would thoroughly recommend this holiday.

A very well organised trip, superb scenery, stunning views on all of the walks. The two guides were very knowledgeable and lead the group in a pleasant and professional manner. They found great venues for meals in each location.

It is incredible how much difference to my wellbeing a week away made. We had incredible guides in Luis and Irella, jaw dropping rugged scenery and an exceptional group. Each day was different as we walked on the rugged cliffs or on the beaches to the Atlantic Ocean. I was mesmerised by its beauty and I felt as though my mind had been cleansed by the sea, light breeze and sunshine. Looking back, i can now tell you the stress of lockdown and london life and not going anywhere for 18 months had really took its toll and this trip bought me back to me and made me have faith that the world will be ok again. Absolutely loved it and just what the doctor ordered. Im home and feel renewed and rejuvenated. Thank you Luis, my wonderful group, beautiful Portugal and Exodus!

This trip was the ultimate de-stressor. Fantastic walks along deserted beaches and cliff top paths with breathtaking views of hidden bays and waves crashing against the rocks, expertly led by Luis and Alex who could not have done more to make this such a fabulous and fun holiday. The accommodation was well chosen and of a good standard and with the help of our guides, we ate in style every evening. We would highly recommend this trip and are pleased to have had yet another excellent Exodus experience.

Hikes along the coastline provided stunning views, coastal breezes, sounds of waves and pristine beaches. Francisco shared his extensive knowledge of the fauna and birds of the region and engaged the group in discussions on the environment. We enjoyed great food and wine and the visits to the Vicentino Vineyard and Junior Jacques Distillery were highlights!

Such a lovely holiday on the Portuguese Atlantic coastline. Walking along beaches and cliff tops, beautiful scenery every day. The guides Ines and Luis, were very knowledgeable, professional and helpful. The hotels were good. Transfer by mini bus to walks and hotels, all included. Would highly recommend.