From ship to shore: Combining cruise excursions with Algarave’s best walking trails

Europe is so full of incredible destinations and historic landmarks that it is difficult to choose between them to craft a perfect walking itinerary.

That said, there is one such place that stands apart from the others, where you can explore dramatic volcanic scenery and enjoy some of the finest coastal walks on an European cruise to Portugal.

The famous Algarves, which are better known for their golf courses, swanky resorts and breathtaking coastline offer immersive ways to experience these natural wonders by shore excursions from Lisbon.

If you scratch below the surface of this holiday mecca, you will find a range of hiking trails to ramble through, across protected parks and over burnt-orange cliff tops that offer a unique way of exploring Algarve’s wild western coastline.

Lisbon on foot

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Lisbon with a guided walking tour to explore iconic sites like the Restauradores Square, Rossio train station and the legendary Carmac Square with the famous Carnation Revolution landmark in the background.

Stroll past ancient architectural ruins that survived the great 1755 earthquake such as the Monastery of Jeronimos and Torre de Belem. Then wander the narrow streets of Alfama and pay a visit to the Fado Museum.

This short but concise walking tour will showcase the best of Lisbon and the three historic sites of Baixa, Chiado and Alfama.

See also what to do in Lisbon in 3 days

Hike scenic Sinatra

From Lisbon, head to the enchanting hills of Sinatra to immerse yourself in its UNESCO recognised cultural landscape.

Here you will explore the eclectic Pena Palace, once home of the Portuguese totality and the lush gardens surrounding it.

Go on a walking tour of Sinatra village to sample iconic local pastries and just pause a moment to soak in the historic ambiance.

Finally, traverse the landscape of the stunning Sintra-Cascais Natural Park by a breathtaking 5 km hike from the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca, through to Praia da Adraga.

Walk the Cabo de Sao Vicente Nature Reserve

If there is one hike which steals the show it is the hike through the Cabo de Sao Vicinte Nature Reserve. Here the trail passes through coastal villages, over desolate sand dunes and remote countryside that are blooming with flowers.

For surreal views of the Algarve’s beautiful countryside, head inland and spiral upwards towards the Monchique Mountains wheee your path will pass through dense green forests to the 902 m high Foia peak.

This happens to be the highest point in the Algarves which offer unhindered views of Roman spa towns and stunning coastal views.

Rota Vicentina: to the Algarve

A sure-fire way to experience the beauty of the Algarve coastline, far away from the tourist hordes, is by an inspiring long-distance walk along the enchanting sections of the Atlantic coast.

Opened in 2013, the Rota Vicentina footpath passes through some of the most untouched corners of Portugal where you will meet few visitors.

The trail starts from Odeceixe to Cape St Vincent and through a section of the Fisherman’s trail, the south-western most point on the European continent.