About This Place
The eastern start of the Via Algarviana — Portugal's 300 km coast-to-coast walking trail. Begins on the Guadiana River in Alcoutim and crosses the entire Algarve interior to Cape St. Vincent.
Via Algarviana — Alcoutim Trailhead
Alcoutim is the official eastern start of the Via Algarviana, the Algarve's 300 km long-distance walking trail. From here, the trail winds west across the rolling hills of the Algarve interior, through cork oak forests, almond groves, and traditional villages — all the way to Cape St. Vincent on the Atlantic coast.
The First Stages (from Alcoutim)
- Stage 1: Alcoutim → Furnazinhas (~14 km, 4–5 hours)
- Stage 2: Furnazinhas → Vaqueiros (~22 km, 6–7 hours)
- Stage 3: Vaqueiros → Cachopo (~28 km, 8–9 hours)
These first stages take you through some of the most remote parts of the Algarve — sleepy villages, abandoned schist hamlets, and silent hills.
Why Start Here
Alcoutim is a tiny riverside town on the Guadiana, looking across to Sanlúcar de Guadiana in Spain. It's atmospheric, quiet, and a perfect way to begin a long walk — slow mornings on the river before turning west.
Practical Info
- Waymarking: Red and yellow stripes (and the Via Algarviana logo)
- Best season: October–April (avoid summer heat)
- Maps & GPX: Available free at viaalgarviana.org
- Accommodation: Tiny guesthouses and rural tourism in villages along the route
- Water: Refill at every village fountain — carry 2L minimum between stages
Getting to Alcoutim
From Faro, drive the A22 east, then north on the IC27 to Alcoutim. About 1h 15min. Limited public transport — most walkers drive or arrange a transfer.
Getting Here
Weather & When to Visit
Warm and pleasant with fewer crowds. Sea temperature remains inviting.
Sunshine
300+ days/year
Sea Temp
17–23°C
Tips for Autumn
- Great time for cultural experiences
- Wine harvest season — visit local vineyards
- Sea is still warm enough for swimming
Best for this season
Best time to visit
April–June and September–October offer the best balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and good prices.
Things to Do in Via Algarviana — Alcoutim Trailhead
Discover Activities Across the Region
While we're adding more activities for Via Algarviana — Alcoutim Trailhead, explore guided tours, coastal hikes, and unique experiences throughout the Algarve.
What's Nearby
Discover more within 10km
Alcoutim
Remote inland village on the Guadiana River facing Spanish village of Sanlúcar de Guadiana. Medieval castle, river beaches, almost total tranquility. Zip wire across the river.
More Places to Discover
Discover more of the Algarve
Vila do Bispo
The last town before the end of Europe — a working crossroads settlement in the far southwest, surrounded by the densest concentration of megalithic monuments on the Iberian Peninsula, and the final staging post on the Via Algarviana.
