Hiking the Fishermen’s Trail in Portugal: probably the best coastal walk in Europe

The Fishermen’s Trail in Portugal is easily one of Europe’s most beautiful coastal hikes. And we say that with full confidence!!

We discovered it soon after buying our house in Aljezur and quickly fell for the wonderfully wild coastline. No beach clubs, no crowds. Just ocean, wind, surfers and the occasional hiker questioning their life choices in deep sand.

We haven’t walked the entire trail yet (always good to keep dreaming), but we’ve explored several sections between Odeceixe and Sagres. Each one is different. These are our favorite sections and tips.

Coastline near Arrifana

What is the Fishermen’s Trail Portugal (Trilho dos Pescadores)

The Fishermen’s Trail (Trilho dos Pescadores) is part of the Rota Vicentina, a long-distance hiking network along Portugal’s wild southwest coast.

The full route stretches about 226 km from Porto Covo to Lagos and is divided into 13 stages, following cliffs, beaches and remote coastal paths. These trails were once used by local fishermen to reach their fishing spots.

Today, it’s considered one of the best coastal hikes in Portugal.

Odeceixe: the section that made us fall in love with the trail

The Fishermen’s Trail to Odeceixe was one of the first sections we hiked and it immediately set the standard very high. We actually did a 15 km circular route. But a part of this route is the same as the Fishermens trail to and from Aljezur.

The trail takes you along the river, beautiful to the sea and then along the cliffs with wide views over the Atlantic. The ocean is always there; sometimes calm, sometimes loud. And beautiful photomoments every time you cross a corner again and see different ocean views.

Odeceixe hike details:

• Circular route: 15 km

• Odeceixe to Aljezur: 22,6 km

• Difficulty: moderate

• Starting point: Odeceixe village or beach

• Best time: morning or late afternoon

Odeceixe river

Aljezur to Arrifana: our favorite local adventure

Aljezur → Arrifana is one of our favorite local adventures. And the best part is that it begins right outside our door. The trail first goes through our village before you head into the countryside with the beautiful rolling hills.

Soon, you arrive at the beautiful beach of Monte Clérigo, with its colourful houses on the cliffs giving the place an almost fairy-tale feel. It’s the perfect stop for coffee or lunch at O Zé or O Sargo. And if you choose O Sargo, the tuna tataki and gyozas are absolutely worth it. Trust us.

Monte Clerigo & O Sargo

From Monte Clérigo, the path follows the coastline towards Arrifana. Not far from the village, we even spotted wild pigs near the trail. Watching baby pigs play around was a moment we won’t forget.

Finally, Arrifana welcomes you in, where you can stretch your legs and celebrate the hike with a well-earned drink at Cal or Tiraul.

Aljezur to Arrifana hike details:

• Distance: 17 km

• Difficulty: moderate to challenging

• Terrain: sandy coastal trails

• Tip: Bring more water than you think you need. Then bring more.

Carrapateira: big views without getting lost (probably)

Carrapateira is one of the best areas if you prefer circular hikes. This means you start and finish in the same place; which is always reassuring.

The cliffs here are bizar (I have no other word) and the views over Praia da Bordeira and Praia do Amado are incredible. Wide beaches, big waves and trails that make you stop constantly to “take photos”

It’s one of the most rewarding sections of the Fishermen’s Trail Algarve.

Carrapateira hike details:

• Distance: 8–12 km loops (Arrifana → Carrapateira ±20 km)

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Starting point: Carrapateira village or Praia da Bordeira (Arrifana for the Fishermen's hike)

Pontal da Carrapateira

Sagres: where the land ends and the wind begins

Sagres feels different from the other sections of the Fishermen’s Trail, which starts here from Vila do Bispo. This town is a really nice and relaxed town, known for its whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets. It's a practical starting point for this stage, because there are a couple of nice cafes and bakeries to be found.

Vila do Bispo Church

Going to Sagres the coastline becomes more extreme, the cliffs are higher and the wind even stronger. Standing here truly feels like you're on the edge of Europe, with nothing between you and America except the open Atlantic and your slightly questionable decision not to pack a wind jacket.

The scenery makes the effort worthwhile: steep cliffs and wide ocean views. And while you’re here, don’t miss the chance to try what locals jokingly call the “last sausage of Europe”; a simple but convenient food stop at the continent’s edge.

Sagres hike details:

• Distance: Vila do Bispo → Sagres ±20 km

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Bring wind protection. you will thank yourself.

Tips for hiking the Fishermen’s Trail Algarve (learn from our mistakes)

If you’re planning to hike the Fishermen’s Trail in Portugal, here’s what we learned:

• Wear proper hiking shoes (sand is deceptively exhausting)

• Bring plenty of water

• Use sun protection

• Start early to avoid the heat

• Don’t underestimate distances

Also, accept that some parts will feel harder than expected. This is normal. Everyone looks confident at the start. Less so after 12 km in sand.