Travel story: Travelling alone in the Algarve

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This year I promised myself to try new things more often – and for me, that includes hiking on my own. After two wonderful Eurohike tours with my partner, I felt ready to take the next step and set out solo. So, I was especially excited to try two stages of the Algarve – Based in One Hotel Tour. It gave me the perfect chance to ease into the experience, discover what it feels like to travel alone, and see whether I might be ready for a full hiking tour on my own in the future.

The perfect starting point for my little adventure is the charming town of Tavira. My cozy hotel here became my base, and I loved the comfort of returning to the same place each evening. At the airport, a smiling driver was already waiting to take me to the trailheads over the coming days. Everything was perfectly organized – I didn’t have to worry about a thing – and so my getaway began in the most relaxed way. I felt curious, a little excited, and full of anticipation for the days ahead.

Tavira market square with white house façades

Into the Heartland: Hiking Tradition and Nature Beyond the Coast

My first hike doesn’t take me, as one might expect on the Algarve, to the sea, but into the quiet, almost timeless inland. Right from the start, near the small village of Santa Catarina, it’s clear: today isn’t about coastal charm, but rural authenticity. The trail begins gently, leading me first to the sleepy village of Hortas. Just a few houses, yet an overwhelming sense of stillness. Soon, I find myself deeper in a gently rolling landscape.

In the distance, the first traditional brick kilns come into view – here, clay is still shaped into bricks the old-fashioned way, without industrial mass production. A piece of living tradition, nestled among wide fields dotted with fruit trees and vegetable plots. Beyond the village, the path grows even quieter. The hilly terrain undulates softly – sometimes dipping, sometimes rising – always under the relentless sun blazing from above. Shade is scarce today, so a hat and plenty of water are essential!

Ceramic painting on an old wall on the way to Asseca

Hiker walks along a lonely path through green countryside

Cool Breaks Along the Water

A special moment comes when I cross a small stream at Pego do Amor. The water isn’t deep, but I still have to take off my shoes to step across the smooth stones and feel the cool, refreshing water on my feet. A little adventure that adds a delightful touch to the hike. Shortly after, I arrive at the Cascata do Pomarinho, a hidden waterfall that turns out to be the perfect spot for a long lunch break. Thanks to recent rains, it’s flowing with plenty of water. Surrounded by shade-giving trees and the soothing sound of trickling water, it’s an ideal place to recharge and let my mind wander. Unfortunately, I can’t visit one of the tour’s main highlights, the Pego do Inferno waterfall, because of a tendon injury. The descent is narrow, unmarked, and slippery in places. But after the wonderful experience at the unexpected Cascata do Pomarinho, I don’t feel like I’m missing out and can skip the detour with a clear conscience. The return path follows wider gravel tracks and small roads. Except for a few shaded stretches, I’m mostly in the sun, but the vastness and calm of the landscape make every step worthwhile. Not a soul in sight – just the chirping of crickets and the rustling of the wind through the trees accompany me.

Back in Tavira, I sit with a cup of coffee, reflecting on a varied stage that has brought me closer to the quiet beauty of the inland – a region that can truly only be experienced on foot.

Hiker looks out over the Pego do Amor waterfall

Between Dunes, Sea, and Pines: My Journey from Alto to Vila Real

My second hiking stage begins today in the small village of Alto, surrounded by open fields and meadows. The air is still fresh, the sun climbing higher in the sky, and I can feel right away that this stage will be very different from yesterday’s – longer and with a distinctly maritime vibe. The trail starts gently through farmland dotted with gardens and small homesteads with animals, gradually leading me to the seaside town of Altura. For the first time, I catch the scent of the sea in the air. Ahead, wide beaches and rolling dunes stretch out, and I have to choose my path: walk along the shore, follow the promenade, or take the wooden boardwalks?

I settle on a mix – sometimes strolling right by the water, other times winding along the wooden paths through the dunes, which are pleasantly easy to walk. I relish the freedom to pick my own way. The longest part of the route follows the beach, always alongside the crashing waves. It’s warm, but the breeze makes walking comfortable. I give my feet a refreshing dip in the water – a true luxury on this hike. Don’t forget your swimwear!

White house wall with paintings and ornaments

Nature, Bustle, and a Touch of Spain

Next, I arrive at the Mata Nacional das Dunas Litorais nature reserve – a completely different landscape. The trail now winds through fragrant pine forest, offering a welcome patch of shade for a change. The path undulates gently, never steep, making it the perfect place to take a deep breath and soak in the peaceful surroundings.About halfway through the stage, I reach the town of Monte Gordo. The contrast couldn’t be greater: beach bars, the well-known casino, families with ice cream in hand, and all the lively bustle of vacationers. I find a cozy bench on the beach promenade and enjoy a leisurely lunch break. The view of the water, a cool drink in hand, sand between my toes – this is what vacation feels like. Refreshed, I return to the second section of the pine forest. I barely see another soul, walking alone along sandy paths beneath the green canopy. Soon, the wide Guadiana River comes into view, and on its bank, the white town of Vila Real de Santo António.

Pine trees in the Vila Real de San António National Park

The final steps lead me along well-kept cobblestone streets, past classic townhouses and shaded squares. I wander through the alleys, find a small café, and gaze across the harbor into Spain. A beautiful way to end this stage. The relaxed train ride back to Tavira isn’t an option today, thanks to a strike. Fortunately, I’m able to share a taxi and make it back to my hotel without delay. Tired but content, I take one last stroll through the town and discover a welcoming restaurant to wrap up my second day of hiking.

My Favorite Spot

The Cascata do Pomarinho is a small, natural waterfall tucked away in the rolling inland hills of the Algarve. Surrounded by shade-giving trees and peaceful nature, it makes the perfect spot for a midday break during the hike. The gentle trickle of water creates a soothing soundtrack, and the secluded setting provides a calming atmosphere – ideal for recharging and soaking in the quiet beauty of the surroundings.

View of the Cascata do Pomarinho waterfall

Travel Story: Alone in the Algarve