Wedged between the Atlantic and the Monchique Mountains, the Vicentine Coast has stunning landscapes, lots of flora and fauna but very few people. This is a wild world where you least expect it. Highlights include Costa Vicentina Natural Park, Carrapateira and Sagres. Joao, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘There's not much pristine coastline left in southern Europe, but the Costa Vicentina has that undiscovered, end of the world feeling. Huge cliffs shelter broad beaches washed by Atlantic waves, and timeworn villages punctuate the coastline here and there.'
On this small group tour with a maximum of 16 guests, you'll head to the village of Aljezur, in the heart of Costa Vicentina Natural Park, and on to Carrapateira. Here, the views over the dunes are a sight to behold. Next, drive towards the Atlantic and hug the coastline, taking in views of tall schist cliffs and swathes of gold sand flanked by imposing rocks. Break for lunch in a seaside restaurant and savour a shellfish cataplana – the Algarve's signature dish.
In the afternoon, head to Cape St Vincent – the most southwesterly point in Europe – where the cliffs rise 75 metres from the sea. Your adventure has one final stop at Sagres, a little fishing harbour with a big history. It was here where Prince Henry the Navigator planned his voyages of discovery, while today's visitors are more likely to be here for the excellent surf breaks at the wonderful beaches nearby, and the low-key attractions of this remote town.
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