home | Cork Oaks to Orange Groves

Cork Oaks to Orange Groves

01/01/2010 00:00

White washed villages glinting in the sun
Cork oak forests - the Montados
Walking through 2 classified areas renowned for their beauty
Orchards of citrus fruits
Timeless landscapes, the true Algarve at it's very best

This independent walking holiday allows you the unique opportunity to explore a landscape where time has truly stood still. Walking from the istorical village of Querença you will discover the real Algarve where people can still follow a traditional way of life well away from the large scale tourist developments on the coast. After six days of walking you reach Silves, the former Moorish capital of the Algarve, with time to explore this walled town with its cobbled streets and magnificent red sandstone castle.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Transfer from arrival point in the Algarve to Querença.

Day 2 A walk of 16 km through the countryside and along the Almarjo valley, much of the countryside is covered in cork woods, totally unspoilt and utterly fascinating. Overnight Querença

Day 3 A shorter walk today that allows you time to appreciate the contrasting countrysides of cork oaks and limestone 'barrocal' as you walk through the valley to Fonte de Benémola - a protected area, home to many birds, bats and unusual plants, 12 km. Overnight Querença.

Day 4 Transfer to the start of the walk. Following in the footsteps of the Moors through unspoilt countryside and up along the limestone escarpment of Rocha da Pena (another classified and protected site) to the village of Alte, 18 km. Overnight in Alte.

Day 5 A circular walk from your hotel through orange groves and then following part of te GR13 before climbing gently up onto the Cumeada ridge with spectacular views north, 13 km. Overnight Alte.

Day 6 Transfer to the start of the walk. A walk along ridges and passing prehistoric landmarksto the Arade barragem and then through groves full of citrus fruit and avocados to your accommodation 5 km from Silves, 16 km. Overnight close to Silves.

Day 7 A walk along the 'levada' to Silves town where you have time to explore before returning along quiet country lanes and through groves of citrus fruit - this area is particularly famous for its oranges, 15 km. Overnight close to Silves.

Day 8 Sadly it is time to leave and we transfer you back to the airport or train station.

INCLUDED

7 night's accommodation in a twin/double room with ensuite facilities and breakfasts
3 dinners (Querença)
Transport to and from your arrival point in Algarve
Movement of luggage during the week
Comprehensive walking notes and maps

NOT INCLUDED