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Highlights of the Via Algarviana
Walk to the end of Europe!
OverviewThere's the Algarve, and then there's the real Algarve! If you wish to see the latter, come and join us on this two-centre holiday which features six of the finest walking routes along the Via Algarviana, the most westerly extension of the Grand European walking route E4/GR13.
The Via Algarviana project was developed to promote nature conservation in the Algarve. The thinking behind it was that walking is the most natural and sustainable way to get to know a region, and that by attracting more visitors, this would assist in the preservation of many of the traditional local activities; you have to know what's at risk to be able to protect it!
A world away from the coast below, small villages in the hills above earn their living sustainably with the natural resources available to them, such as cork, strawberry liquor, honey, fish and traditional handicrafts. On our walks we will have time to stop and admire these crafts and appreciate the unhurried pace of life that remains there to this day.
We start in the beautiful village of Alcoutim, perched on the banks of the River Guadiana, with Spain a pebble's throw away on the other side. We finish at the dramatic cliffs of Cape Saint-Vincent, Europe's most westerly point - we can go no further! In between we have selected the best walks from the route which will take us through unspoilt villages and historic towns such as Messines, Alte and Silves, with their cobbled streets, Moorish influence and old world charm. In between, we will pass through varied and attractive rural landscapes, with spectacular views down to the coast. The region teems with varied and interesting flora and fauna; the Algarve has an amazing variety of wild flowers which exchange places throughout the year ensuring the scenery is never dull. Soaring above, you may spot peregrine falcons, kites, storks, hoopoes, the odd flamingo and if you're lucky, the rare Bonelli's eagle.
We use two centres on this holiday as our journey continues westwards, and all transfers to and from walks and hotels are included. In addition, all dinners will be taken at selected popular local restaurants - relaxed, sociable evenings that will round off the day perfectly!
Holiday Information SheetAll Holiday Information sheets are in PDF format. You will need Acrobat Reader or a similar program to view these. To download Acrobat Reader visit get.adobe.com/reader.
The transport support provided by Enrique was excellent and complimented an excellent leader in Mark. (Highlights of the...
Highlights of the Via Algarviana was a well thought-out and planned holiday.
Teresa and Keith are experienced leaders with over 10 years leading around the globe for Ramblers Worldwide.Together their expertise, enthusiasm and knowledge of the natural world bring added interest to all their tours.
