An enchanting coastline

This post is also available in: Nederlands (Dutch)

Walking along the impressive coastline of the Algarve

Yes, I admit it, you could call it an obsession, this walking of mine…because it is not limited to city walks in Porto – I also walk a lot here in the Algarve! But luckily, I’m not the only one with this passion, and walking has brought a lot of interesting people on my path.

So, today we are back in the Algarve, and we are going to walk along the most beautiful coastline in Europe (in my opinion).  I have lived here for a good many years, but the Algarve coastline continues to enchant me! The rugged, yellow cliffs that stand out against an azure sea form an impressive play of colours that never get boring.

We are blessed with an enormous number of hiking trails that provide endless hiking fun. However, before you start on one of these walks, it is wise to delve into the difficulty level, because not all routes are easy.

Praia da Marinha

Today’s first hike takes us past impressive rock formations, idyllic bays, rock arches and spectacular views. The route starts at perhaps the most famous beach in Portugal, “Praia da Marinha.” This beach is listed in the Michelin guide as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in Europe and one of the 100 most beautiful in the world (and I totally agree!) – this alone is reason enough for a visit.

Our course today goes from Praia da Marinha via Sra. Da Rocha to Armação de Pera.  And before I continue, I really want to thank the people from the Italian trekking group. I can only be very grateful that they welcomed “this odd one out” with so much sympathy and open arms! Yes, indeed – that Italian party at the end of last year had brought a lot of positive things  😊 .

We leave the magical beach of Praia de Marinha and via the beaches “Praia do Barraquinho,” Praia de Albandeira, we reach the little church of Sra. Da Rocha.

Equipment

If you start out on one of these coastal walks, make sure you wear sturdy “walking” shoes with a good tread and take at least water, a hat and sunscreen with a high SPF. For those who are not so good on their feet, I advise you to leave it at looking at these pictures…😉

Below, you see the “Yellow Submarine” rock formation in front of Praia da Morena. Another beautiful work of art in nature!

Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Rocha

The chapel of “Nossa Senhora da Rocha” stands on top of a cliff tongue that runs into the sea. There used to be a military fortress here but, according to tradition, the chapel was built at the end of the 15th century.

A legend tells us ( yes, there’s another one…. 😉 ) that the holy virgin Mary appeared on this spot. After that, fishermen came here to ask for safe navigation and protection from pirates.  In the 13th century, the king already tried to strengthen it by making it a fortress. King João III reconstructed it in the 17th century to defend the coast from attacks by Moorish pirates.

Today, in front of the chapel and in the raised courtyard, you’ll find these funny “wish” spots, colourful collections of shells, ribbons and texts. My predecessors were clearly better prepared for this visit, because I didn’t have any shells, ribbons or felt-tip pens in my backpack….. It will have to be the next time.

Praia Cova Redonda

From Sra. da Rocha, we follow the footpath via Praia Cova Redonda towards Armação de Pêra. Behind every corner, you find a new eye-catching gift.

And also, here on the beach of Praia Cova Redonda, you can leave a wish/memory.

 

We end this first walk with lunch in Armação de Pêra. Perhaps not the most charming place in the Algarve but a great place to eat something and a somewhat less “challenging” walk on the beautiful beach.

Ponte da Piedade – Praia da Luz

For those interested in more walks along this beautiful coast, I recommend the following websites:Algarve Walking in Portugal (algarve-walking.com) and  Top 20 Hikes and Walks at the Algarve | Komoot.

Below you will find some more impressions of the routes “Ponte da Piedade – Praia da Luz” and “Burgau – Salema,” which we also walked in the last weeks.

We end this first walk with lunch in Armação de Pêra. Perhaps not the most charming place in the Algarve but a great place to eat something and a somewhat less “challenging” walk on the beautiful beach.

Burgau – Salema

Soon, we will leave for a several day trekking tour along the west coast. It will not be easy with significant differences in height and many kilometres through the sand, but I am looking forward to it! I’ll keep you posted😊. In the meantime, keep moving, drink plenty of water and seize the day 🌞

 

 

This post is also available in: Nederlands (Dutch)