WALKWAYS
Fancy getting out and about and seeing what Algarve has to offer off the beaten – or rather driven – track? We asked Linda Taylor Goncalves of Weekend Walkers for her six of the best
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he Algarve is a wonderful place for walking, whether you are out for a gentle stroll or are a dedicated hiker. The countryside is verdant, with undulating landscapes, and our coastal paths are well-maintained and marked. The months between October and May have great walking weather with the Algarve sunshine and gentle breezes. There are many way-marked walks managed by each local authority and these can be found on the internet with maps to print out. As a general rule, you should always make sure you are well hydrated before starting off; take water with you and wear sunscreen. Choose the right clothes (think comfort as well as practicality) and ensure your legs are covered. Have a light – preferably waterproof – jacket with you in case there is the odd shower. Lightweight walking boots that give ankle support are ideal for the countryside as the going can be rocky in parts, although trainers are sufficient for the cliff paths and beach walks. Take your camera – you will find great photograph opportunities on all of these walks. Here are our favourites...
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The cliff path walk from Praia da Rocha to Praia de Vau, then through the pine forest and countryside down to the beach, is quite special. When you see Dunas Restaurant, come off the beach and follow the boardwalk around the Alvor Estuary, enjoying the resident birdlife. This walk is 12kms and involves some spectacular scenery, with huge (and protected) blowholes – dramatic sea views with the great rock structures scattered along the coast. There are plenty of cafés and restaurants close to the start point and along the way, so you can relax and enjoy your surroundings.
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Drive west out of the castle city of Silves to find the beautiful meeting point of the Odelouca and Arade rivers. Parking beside a café, you walk a short stretch of road until veering off left towards the path encircling the watercourse. The going is mostly flat and accompanied by the gentle sounds of the water and birds. You pass through tiny hamlets with typical Algarve cottages before rejoining the pathway back to the start. At approximately 9kms and a view of the water most of
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