Walking in the Algarve: Unmissable Trails for 2025
The summer’s cooling off, and while that may mean that not every day is the perfect beach day, cooler temperatures definitely bring perks. One of the best ones? Emjoying the great outdoors slightly more actively – without sweating buckets within minutes, that is. So, if you love a scenic walk, get excited about a more adventurous hike, or just want to make the most of the end-of-summer shunshine as you explore gorgeous southern Portugal, we’ve put together some top tips and locations to make your experience of walking in the Algarve is one you’ll want to do again… and again.
With the Rocha Brava Village Resort as your base, many of the top routes for walking in the Algarve are right on your doorstep, so let’s take a look at some you simply won’t want tomiss.
Walking in the Algarve for the Whole Family: The Carvoeiro Boardwalk
If you’re travelling with kids or just fancy something a bit more leisurely, the Algarve has plenty of easy-access paths that don’t skimp on scenery. One of the best for families is the Carvoeiro Boardwalk, just minutes from the resort. This flat wooden walkway stretches 570 metres along the cliffs, linking Algar Seco with the Nossa Senhora da Encarnação Fort.
It’s short, safe, and breathtaking – ideal for all ages, including toddlers in pushchairs. Head out at sunset for some golden hour magic, and don’t miss the chance to explore the rock formations at Algar Seco while you’re there. If you’re visiting during busy season, you may have to park a bit further out of Carvoeiro town centre and walk – but enjoy exploring winding streets and cute shops as you go past!
Walking in the Algarve doesn’t get much easier – or more beautiful – than this.
Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Widely considered one of the most breathtaking routes for walking in the Algarve, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail runs for 6 km one way (12 km return), stretching from Praia da Marinha – consistently voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world! – to Praia de Vale Centeanes. Expect dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and hidden beaches, with jaw-dropping views at every turn, making this a trail not to be missed, if you can hack it!
It’s a moderately challenging walk with some ups and downs over rocky terrain, so you’ll need decent shoes and a bit of stamina, making it best suited to adults and older kids who are used to walking.
Early mornings are ideal to avoid the midday heat, and be sure to pack plenty of water, suncream, and snacks – and always stay well back from the cliff edge.
Alvor Boardwalks
If meandering for longer, but along flatter terrain, is what you have in mind, the Alvor Boardwalks are perfect for a relaxed stroll through nature. These long wooden walkways stretch over the Alvor Lagoon estuary and its surrounding dunes, creating the perfect conditons for birdwatching, photography, or simply soaking in the views.
With easy parking by Alvor beach, it’s one of the most accessible locations for walking in the Algarve, is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, and excellent for families with children – though there’s no shade, so make sure you take suncream and hats for all. Keep your eyes peeled for herons, flamingos and other birdlife as you go – pack your binoculars for a closer look! – and how about rounding off your walk with a paddle in the sea at Alvor beach?
Monchique Hill Trails
Fancy a change of scenery? Head inland to the Monchique hills, where fresh air and shadierpaths await. Several trails snake through the hills here, including the Fóia trail, which will take you to the highest point in the Algarve.
Exploring the Monchique hills will allow you to see the Algarve from a totally different perspective – not least because of the panoramic views over the region’s cut-out coastline – and you’ll feel like you’re somewhere else entirely, far away from busy beaches and resort life. In fact, ensure you pack plenty of food and water for your adventures, as there’s not much up there except the hills themselves. These trails are more challenging, with steep sections and uneven ground, so they’re best for experienced walkers or families with teenagers, and the weather up there is unpredictable, so pack a windbreaker and plenty of water, as it’s hard to know if it’ll be hotter or cooler than the coast!
Ferragudo Coastal Path
For a quieter alternative to the more famous trails, try the Ferragudo Coastal Walk near the charming fishing village of Ferragudo. Just a short drive from Carvoeiro, this walk offers spectacular views of sea cliffs, lighthouses and caves… with far fewer crowds.
This route is suitable for most walkers and older kids, but do take care near the cliff edges, which are unprotected. It’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon, when the sun sets behind the Ponta do Altar Lighthouse – perfect for unforgettable holiday photos.
Walking in the Algarve from the Rocha Brava Village Resort
If you’re staying at Rocha Brava Village Resort, you’re ideally placed to enjoy the best of walking in the Algarve. From easy strolls to challenging hikes, this part of the region has something for everyone – and all just a stone’s throw from your resort of choice. So, lace up your trainers, grab your sunhat, and get ready to explore the Algarve in the most authentic way – one step at a time.
