The Via Algarviana

Book excerpt: The Via Algarviana ('Algarve Way') is a fully waymarked, long-distance trail across southern Portugal's Algarve region, from the Spanish border in the east to the Atlantic Ocean in the west. This guide describes the complete route from Alcoutim to Cabo de São Vicente (Cape St Vincent), as well as an alternative finish to the walk via Aljezur and the Rota Vicentina - another long-distance trail exploring Portugal's windswept Atlantic coast.The 300km (186-mile) journey along the Via Algarviana is an unforgettable experience and provides an introduction to a little-known Algarve that few visitors get to see. Away from the bustling resorts and popular sandy beaches you will find a varied landscape of rolling hills, dry orchards, cork forests, and agricultural terraces; you'll spend evenings in sleepy, unspoilt towns and villages sampling the region's fine wines and rich culinary traditions.