Day 1: Fly to Faro
This is a big travelling day. Enjoy your overnight flight from Toronto to Faro.
Stay: N/A (in flight)
Day 2: Faro Guided Walking Tour
Welcome to Faro! After your overnight flight, meet your local guide and embark on a walking tour of the Algarve region’s charming capital city. Faro’s rich history seamlessly blends Roman, Moorish, and Jewish influences, which you’ll experience as you explore the Old Town (Cidade Velha). Wander through its maze of narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and inviting squares, and admire the traditional architecture, including the impressively preserved City Walls. Visit the fascinating Chapel of Bones, before concluding your tour with a refreshing drink and stunning views of the beautiful coastline. Enjoy delicious, regional fare during a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Stay:
Hotel Faro Beach Club or similar, Faro, PT (5 nights)
Meals:
B (on plane), D
Day 3: Ria Formosa Natural Park
Today, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Ria Formosa, one of Europe’s most vital protected wetlands, nestled along Portugal's southern coastline. This extraordinary ecosystem consists of tranquil lagoons, mudflats, salt marshes, and scenic barrier islands. Hop aboard a boat and head to the idyllic Ilha Deserta, where you can stroll along pristine sandy beaches and a charming wooden boardwalk. Indulge in a delicious lunch at Estaminé, the island’s sole building, entirely self-sustained through solar power and water production. In the afternoon, continue your adventure with a guided birdwatching and nature tour through this unique haven. Conclude your day with a return to Faro, where the evening is yours to explore.
Meals:
B, L
Day 4: Hike in the Algarve Countryside - Fonte Filipe Trail
After breakfast, head to the enchanting Amendoeira region, one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets. Immerse yourself in the Fonte Filipe hike, which takes you through a beautifully preserved rural landscape with ancient pathways. The trail meanders across sun-drenched farmlands, past sprawling almond, carob, and olive groves, cork oak forests, and tranquil streams. Along the way, encounter a vibrant array of birds, wildflowers, and aromatic herbs such as thyme and lavender. After the hike, enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant before visiting a cork factory for an insightful tour. Learn about the fascinating cork industry, from harvesting techniques to the exquisite products crafted from this versatile material. Return to Faro, where a relaxing evening awaits.
Meals:
B, L
Day 5: Fonte da Benémola Nature Walking Trail
Discover more of Portugal’s protected lands with a morning hike through Fonte Benémola. This circular walk takes you through a lush green valley, alongside a beautiful stream, where, 13th-century farmers cultivated a variety of fruits and vegetables. Learn about the region’s traditions and discover ancient Moorish irrigation structures along the way. After the hike, head to the iconic Loulé Market to immerse yourself in the Algarve’s rich culinary traditions with a delicious lunch. Following your meal, continue to explore the market, discovering the region’s heritage crafts through local artisans, including Portugal’s last remaining coppersmith, and a basket maker for a hands-on workshop. After your exciting day, return to Faro for a night at your leisure.
Meals:
B, L
Day 6: Hike Amongst Ancestral Olive Trees, Olive Oil Tasting
Travel north today, into the Algarvian countryside where ancestral olive farms dot the landscape. Enjoy a walk among the ancient olive trees, following timeworn paths. Next, visit an olive oil farm in Moncarapacho, to learn about the production process, how to taste the oil, and discover how to identify its distinct flavours.
Meals:
B, L
Day 7: Seven Hanging Valleys Coastal Trail
After breakfast, transfer to Praia da Marinha to begin the renowned Seven Hanging Valleys Hike, one of the Algarve's most spectacular trails. This unforgettable journey features dramatic cliffs, rich with caves, arches, and striking natural formations. Along the way, you'll pass pristine beaches and the iconic Benagil Cave. Next, visit a centuries-old vineyard for lunch and a complimentary wine tasting. After, travel through Silves, one of the most historical towns in the Algarve. See a Moorish castle, ancient walls, and historic churches. Arrive in Lagos, and check in to your centrally located hotel, which offers picturesque views of the marina. In the evening, experience the city’s vibrant nightlife and restaurants, at your leisure.
Stay:
Hotel Marina Rio, Lagos, PT (5 nights)
Meals:
B, L
Day 8: Discover Monchique & Mount Fóia
Today’s adventure takes you deep into the heart of the Algarve’s mountains, reaching the highest point—Mount Fóia. Hike along a scenic trail to the summit, where a delightful home-cooked lunch awaits. Savour your meal while taking in the awe-inspiring panoramic views. The rugged landscape here contrasts sharply with the coastline. After lunch, visit the village of Monchique with a stop at a medronho distillery. Learn how the traditional drink is made and enjoy a complimentary tasting. Return to the hotel for a free evening.
Meals:
B, L
Day 9: Lagos Food Tour, the Ponta da Piedade Cape
After breakfast, embark on a guided walking tour through the heart of Lagos, exploring its historic old town and charming streets. Visit a local food market and indulge in complimentary tastings of fresh, regional delights. In the afternoon, take a scenic coastal walk to the stunning Ponta da Piedade cape, a renowned spot offering breathtaking views of the ocean and dramatic rocky cliffs.
Meals:
B, L
Day 10: West Coast Walk, Aljezur Village
In the morning, visit Aljezur, a charming historical village near the West Coast. Enjoy a scenic walk that begins and ends at Amoreira Beach, one of the most beautiful spots in the West Coast Natural Park. The area is rich in unique plants and flowers. Along the way, stop at the pristine, wild Carriagem Beach. After the hike, explore Aljezur’s castle and historic center, followed by a tasting of local tapas. As the “capital” of sweet potato production in Portugal, you’ll learn what makes this town’s potatoes so special! Conclude the day with a free evening to unwind and explore at your own pace.
Meals:
B, L
Day 11: The Natural Park of Costa Vicentina and Sudoeste Alentejano
After breakfast, transfer to Ingrina Beach, then embark on a coastal hike along rugged cliffs toward Sagres village. The hike is located within the breathtaking Costa Vicentina Natural Park, one of Portugal’s most treasured landscapes. Along the way, pass by pristine, wild beaches, ancient fort ruins, and old fishermen’s trails. Sagres, steeped in history, is closely tied to the Portuguese Age of Discoveries in the 15th century. Enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant in Sagres before continuing on a driving tour through the natural park. In the evening, take some time to freshen up before regrouping for a farewell dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Meals:
B, L, D
Day 12: Fly Home
After breakfast, depart for Faro Airport, with unforgettable memories and experiences from your incredible journey.
Meals:
B
