Day 1: Fly to Faro
This is a big travelling day. Enjoy your overnight flight from Toronto to Faro.
Stay: N/A (in flight)
Meals:
D (on plane)
Day 2: Faro Guided Walking Tour
Welcome to Faro! After your overnight flight, meet your local guide and embark on a 2hr walking tour (H1/Easy) 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 (3 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 Culatra Island, home to one of the last active fishing villages in the region. With no cars and a strong maritime tradition, the island offers a peaceful yet adventurous escape. Enjoy a traditional lunch, prepared with locally sourced seafood products. In the afternoon, continue your adventure with a guided birdwatching and nature tour (H1/Easy) 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 (H2/Moderate – 9.3km/269m), 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: Seven Hanging Valleys Coastal Trail
After breakfast, transfer to Praia da Marinha to begin the renowned Seven Hanging Valleys Hike (H2/Moderate – 6-7km/106m), 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 (4 nights)
Meals:
B, L
Day 6: Discover Monchique
Today’s journey takes you to Monchique, the highest point in the Algarve. The Vegetable Garden Path is a peaceful, easy-going hike through cultivated terraces and small farms, where you’ll see the Algarve’s rural side in bloom, framed by the Monchique hills and distant sea views. 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 7: Fisherman’s Trail
Begin your adventure at Salema Beach, a charming fishing village on the Algarve coast, where traditional boats still dot the shoreline. From here, set off along a scenic stretch of the Fishermen’s Trail, named for the old coastal paths once used by local fishermen to reach prime fishing spots. Hike along rugged cliffs with panoramic ocean views, then pause for a seaside picnic before returning to Lagos.
Meal:
B, L
Day 8: 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 (H1/Easy – 2-3km), a renowned spot offering breathtaking views of the ocean and dramatic rocky cliffs. In the evening, regroup for a final, farewell dinner.
Meals:
B, L, D
Day 9: Fly Home
After breakfast, depart for Faro Airport with unforgettable memories and experiences from your incredible journey.
Meals:
B