The journey from Santiago do Cacém to Odeceixe is one of the most spectacular sections of the Rota Vicentina Fishermen’s Trail, following the wild Atlantic coastline through Portugal’s protected Alentejo and into the edge of the Algarve. This is a route defined by dramatic cliffs, vast sandy beaches, and a constant sense of space and solitude, making it one of Europe’s most authentic coastal walking experiences.
Each stage follows ancient fisherman’s paths carved into the cliffs, weaving between hidden coves, dune systems, and long stretches of untouched shoreline. The Atlantic is your constant companion, with rolling waves, seabird colonies, and ever-changing light shaping the rhythm of the walk. Despite its wild character, the route also passes through traditional fishing villages and small coastal communities where life remains closely tied to the ocean.
As the trail approaches Odeceixe, the landscape begins to soften, transitioning into the beautiful Seixe River valley where the Alentejo meets the Algarve. This natural shift in scenery creates a memorable conclusion to the route, offering a peaceful and picturesque end point after days of dramatic coastal walking.
Inclusions
- 6 nights’ accommodation in a good quality B&B or hotel with ensuite or private bathroom and breakfast
- Luggage transfers each walking day
- Map and guide book plus detailed directions to your accommodation from the trail
- Expert local knowledge and 24 hour emergency assistance during your trip
- Professional event organisation
Exclusions
- Travel to and from the start and finish points of the trip
- Lunches and evening meals
- Personal insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects)
- Guiding (please contact us if you would like this trip to be guided)
Optional extras
- Single room supplement £80 per person per night (subject to availability)
- Solo traveller supplement £80 per person per night
- Odd group supplement £80 per group per night may apply if a single room is required.
- Extra night prior to start (single room) £180 per person
- Extra night prior to the start (twin room, needs 2 people) £90 per person
- Extra night at the end of the event (single room) £250 per person
- Extra night at the end of the event (twin room, needs 2 people) £125 per person
Please select from Optional Extras at checkout.
Getting there and back
Getting There
By air:
Lisbon is served by Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), with direct flights from most major cities.
By land:
From Lisbon: Driving takes around 2 hours with a private transfer
Getting Away:
The easiest way to leave Odeceixe is by bus or private transfer to Lagos or Faro, then continuing onward to an international airport.
Evening meals and lunches
You can purchase evening meals either at the accommodation or nearby. When our event planners send you the schedule with itinerary you could prearrange directly with the accommodation or during the walk.
For lunches we would suggest bringing some of your own favourite snack bars and then asking the accommodation for a packed lunch for the following day and also supplementing that at stops en-route.
Accommodation
Accommodation is generally at B&B, guest houses and small hotels. Once booked in, your event planner will send you a list of your booked accommodation. It is possible to adjust according to preference at this stage so please mention it if you wish to change.
Dog friendly
Need a guide?
If you would prefer to have a guide for your walk, even just for one day, then we are happy to help. We can provide a qualified leader (also first aid qualified) to lead your trek or on just one of the sections. Just ask us.
A guide can not only take the stress out of navigation, but you will also find them a great asset in terms of providing an insight into all things environment and nature.
Dates and prices
For available dates please see the ‘build your trip’ option on the left hand side on desktops or at the bottom on mobiles. You can reserve your space via this route.
After you book
After placing your booking with us, you will in the first instance receive an automated email from our system confirming receipt of your reservation. If you don’t receive it, it is worth checking your spam/clutter folder.
In the process of placing your booking, you will generally set up an access password to our online gateway where you can review the details of the booking.
Your personal event planner will then be in touch with you to start to confirm the details. This contact will usually be taken up in the working day after receipt of your booking, but may, in busy times, take a little longer. The event planner will then liaise with you regarding the details of the course. If you have any specific requirements, please do mention it at this stage.
At the end of your trip
Unfortunately, all good things come to an end at some point and when you arrive in Fort William, you have one of several options. If you have not booked an additional night’s stay in Fort William then we will deliver your luggage to the Nevis Centre in Fort William. From there you may have onward travel arranged as per the ‘Getting There and Back’ tab above.
Some people like to treat themselves to a night’s stay in Fort William at the end. And why not? You’ve earned it. You can arrange this as an optional add on with your event planner.