The Vicentina Route is a project in Southwestern Alentejothat allows the region to be explored in the most natural way possible, creating hiking and cycling routes that enable travelers to experience nearly the entire area.
Therefore, the Vicentina Route is not the Fisherman's Trail as many people mistakenly believe, but rather a comprehensive network of trails (hiking, cycling, and motorized) throughout the Southwestern Alentejo.
So, in this article, we will discuss the hiking trails that exist in Vicentina Route. The Vicentina Route, in terms of hiking, includes two Great Routes (GR) and 24 Small Routes (PR). In total, you have arround 750km of hiking trails.
We will now explain the differences between these options, how to plan your hikes, and what precautions you should take. For super detailed information on each route, you can consult the official site of Vicentina Route
Before we proceed, we want to inform you that all these Trails may intersect at some point, so it is crucial to know how to differentiate the signage to avoid getting lost.
On the other hand, you can do an almost infinite combination of hikes.It all depends on your availability and interests
1 – Vicentina route – Fisherman's Trail (GR)
This is probably the hike that takes most people to the Southwestern Alentejo, because it's in fact one of the most amazing coastal hikes in the world, that also connects some of the most picturesque and beautiful villages of Alentejo Coast.. It's such a special hike that we have an entire article dedicated to it
There's almost 227 kmthat can be divided by 13 stagesof raw and rare beauty in the World.It starts in Sines and finishes in Lagos
However, you can start the Fisherman's Trailat any stage or complete just one stage. Just keep in mind that if you want to complete the full trail, 13 stages correspond to 13 days with an average of 20km per day,in diferent types of terrains that swap from asphalt to sand. In our opinion, you should try to complete at least the stages from Porto Covo - OdeceixeWe guarantee you won’t regret it!
1 – What precautions should I take if I want to walk the Fishermen's Trail?
First, remember that you are in a protected landscape, so, lettering or camping on the trail is strictly prohibited. proibido.
Secondly, planning each stage is crucial.You should carefully analyze the terrain,the slopes and if you have water and food suppliers along the way.Some stages pass through small villages, but not all, and even when they do, the establishments may be closed.
Thirdly, decide whether you will sleep at the end of each stage or notThis is important because it is a one way hike,meaning the starting and finishing points are diferent. In case you need to get back to the starting point, you must, arrange a taxi or transfer service, previously.
Last, but not the least, this tip goes to the readers, that intend to do more than one stage.Decide if you want to take your luggage with you.If not, we highly recommend you hire a Luggage Transfer Company to transfer your luggage between stages.
Not less important, always bring with you on the hike solar screen, hat, water, snacks, phone and a power bank
2 – Are there any additional prohibitions to keep in mind?
In addition to the ones described above, it is completely prohibited to leave the marked trails or cross protective barriers specifically to avoid destroying the fragile habitats around you or falling (possibly fatally) from the cliffs.
Another prohibition is that Fisherman's Trail, unlike others, is exclusively for pedestrians.In other words, it cannot be done by bike. However, we know there are alternatives, but we cannot comment on them as we have never tried. For assistance on this matter, we recommend contacting Vicentina Route.
If you need help to plan your hiking trip, contact us by submitting the form .
We have several partners in Vicentina Route, from accommodation, guides and transfers. So you only need to focus on the indescribable beauty you will find in this region.
2 – Vicentina Route– Historical Way (GR)
The other Great Route that is part of the Vicentina Route is a delight for lovers of culture, traditions, and history, as we’re talking about the Historical Way
Starting in the historic city of Santiago do Cacém and ending in Cape S. Vicente (Sagres) this is the biggest trail in Vicentina Route, stretching with frequent 263 km over 13 stages
As the name suggests the Historical Wayontrasts with the maritime landscapes of the Fisherman's Trailoffering more mountainous scenery in the interior of Southwestern Alentejo.
So, on this trail, you will primarily traverserural paths, always accompanied by valleys, forests, fields, rivers, and streams..
However, the best part of this trail, in our opinion, is the villages you will encounter along Caminoallowing you to take a journey back in time.
Finally, another interesting fact about this trail is that it was used by Santiago pilgrims traveling from the South, and it has been certified as Leading Quality Trailsby the European Ramblers Association.
1 – What precautions should I take if I want to walk the Historical Way?
Firstly, the advice we gave for the Fisherman's Trailis valid on the Historical Waywith a few differences noted below.
There are trails dedicated to bicycles, but it is possible to cycle some sections of the the Historical Way therefore, be aware of approaching bicycle noises. If you want to do the Historical Way by bike note that the trail passes through private areaswhere only pedestrians are allowed. So, it's best to use the alternative MTB routes..
Despite being a Great Routethe main difficulty of this trail lies in its length (if you want to complete it in full), with stages considered easy and a maximum length of 22 km However, like the Fisherman's Trailthe stages are one way ; so plan ahead your accommodations and/or transfers
Not less important, always bring with you on the hike sun screen, hat, water, snacks, phone and power bank although basic services and accommodations are available along the trail.
3 – Rota Vicentina – Circular Trails (PR)
We finally arrive at the Circular Trails. These Trails are perfect for whom wants to combine relaxation and beach timewith Hikes Better yet, they are circular of Southwestern AlentejoSo you don't have to worry about accommodationsor transfers.Also perfect to explore with your family
There are 24 trails that make up this network of Circular Trails, from Santiago do Cacém - Lagosand there’s something for everyone. We have coastal trails,trails with more farming landscape,others perfect for birdwatchingand others more cultural. These trails can also be a complement to the stages of the Fisherman's Trail and the Historical Wayas they intersect at various points.
These trails are just what you need to make your holiday Southwestern Alentejo even more rich.
If you need help organizing stages of the Long-Distance Trails, don’t hesitate to contact us. We have several partners along the Rota Vicentina, including accommodations, guides, and transfers.
