Family Adventure on the Rota Vicentina

A Day of Discovery on the Rota Vicentina

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Rita, a local spot known for its traditional Portuguese pastries and strong coffee. The pastel de nata was still warm from the oven, and Amina devoured hers with gusto, a sprinkle of cinnamon dusting her nose. Jan and I enjoyed the strong, dark coffee, which provided the perfect jolt of energy for our planned hike. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the Hikeinalentejo trails, eager to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the region.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Hikeinalentejo, a hiker's paradise in São Luís, Portugal, offering diverse trails and stunning natural beauty.

The Hikeinalentejo trails offered a stunning introduction to the Rota Vicentina. As we started our walk, the landscape unfolded before us in layers of vibrant greens and earthy browns. The air was fresh and clean, carrying the scent of wildflowers and the distant sea. Amina, ever the curious explorer, was thrilled to spot various birds and butterflies, each sighting prompting a flurry of questions. I tried my best to answer, drawing on my limited knowledge and promising to look up the rest later. It's moments like these that make travelling as a family so rewarding – we're all learning and discovering together.

The trails themselves were well-maintained, a testament to the care and dedication of the local community. We passed through fragrant pine forests, the sunlight dappling through the canopy, creating an ethereal glow. The paths wound along gentle slopes, offering panoramic views of the coastline. In the distance, we could see the dramatic cliffs and crashing waves that define the Rota Vicentina. I must admit, I momentarily wished I hadn't forgotten my travel guidebook; it would have been nice to identify some of the local flora and fauna we encountered. But sometimes, it's nice to simply be present and soak it all in.

As we continued our hike, we encountered other travellers, each with their own story and purpose. A young couple from Germany were cycling the Rota Vicentina, their faces flushed with exertion and excitement. An older gentleman from England was walking solo, his weathered face hinting at a lifetime of adventures. We exchanged smiles and brief greetings, a silent acknowledgment of our shared appreciation for this incredible place. It reinforced my belief that travel connects us all, transcending borders and cultures.

Reaching a particularly scenic viewpoint, we paused to take in the vista. The coastline stretched out before us, a rugged tapestry of cliffs, beaches, and turquoise waters. The Atlantic Ocean roared its timeless song, a constant reminder of nature's power and beauty. I took a deep breath, filling my lungs with the salty air, and felt a sense of peace wash over me. It was a moment of pure bliss, a reminder of why we embarked on this journey in the first place.

Continuing along the Rota Vicentina Sagres, the landscape shifted, becoming more dramatic and rugged. The cliffs grew taller, the waves crashed harder, and the wind howled with greater intensity. We were now on the famed Fishermen's Trail, a narrow path that hugs the coastline, offering unparalleled views of the Atlantic. Amina, initially hesitant, soon found her stride, her small legs carrying her with surprising speed and agility. Jan, ever the supportive husband, held her hand whenever the path became too challenging, offering words of encouragement and praise.


Discover the breathtaking coastal trails of Rota Vicentina in Sagres, where nature meets adventure in Portugal's stunning landscapes.

The views were simply spectacular. The cliffs plunged vertically into the ocean, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring scene. The waves crashed against the rocks, sending plumes of white foam into the air. Seabirds soared overhead, their cries echoing in the wind. I felt a sense of exhilaration, a feeling of being on the edge of the world. This was exactly the kind of adventure we had hoped for, a chance to connect with nature and challenge ourselves physically and mentally.

We eventually reached a secluded beach, a small cove sheltered from the wind and waves. The sand was soft and golden, the water crystal clear and inviting. We decided to take a break, stripping off our shoes and socks and wading into the cool water. Amina squealed with delight, splashing and playing with the waves. Jan and I sat on the sand, watching her with smiles on our faces. It was a perfect moment of family bonding, a memory that we would cherish for years to come.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that challenge us, pushing us beyond our comfort zones and revealing the hidden beauty of the world.

As lunchtime approached, our stomachs began to rumble, reminding us that it was time to refuel. We made our way to Restaurante Costa Vicentina, a charming eatery nestled in a small village along the coast. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes. We were lucky to snag a table on the terrace, overlooking the ocean. The view was simply stunning, the turquoise waters stretching out to the horizon.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Costa Vicentina in Lisbon - where every dish tells a story from the sea.

We ordered a selection of dishes to share, including grilled sardines, seafood rice, and a fresh salad. The sardines were cooked to perfection, their smoky flavour enhanced by a squeeze of lemon. The seafood rice was rich and flavourful, packed with prawns, clams, and mussels. The salad was crisp and refreshing, a welcome contrast to the richness of the other dishes. Amina, initially hesitant to try the seafood, soon warmed to the grilled sardines, declaring them delicious! Jan and I savoured every bite, washing it down with a crisp, local white wine.

The atmosphere at Restaurante Costa Vicentina was warm and inviting. The staff were friendly and attentive, eager to share their knowledge of the local cuisine. The other diners were a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the food and the company. We struck up a conversation with a couple from Canada, who were also travelling the Rota Vicentina. They shared their experiences and recommendations, adding to our growing list of places to visit and things to do. It's amazing how food can bring people together, creating connections and fostering a sense of community.

After lunch, we decided to explore the local shops, hoping to find a unique souvenir to remind us of our time on the Rota Vicentina. We stumbled upon Born to Be Atentejano, a charming boutique that showcased the region's artisanal products. The shop was filled with colourful ceramics, hand-woven textiles, and locally made crafts. Amina was immediately drawn to a display of painted tiles, each depicting a different scene from the Alentejo region. She carefully selected one, a vibrant image of a fishing boat sailing into the sunset.


Discover the heart of Atentejo at Born to Be Atentejano, a charming store in Vila Nova de Milfontes offering local artisan treasures and traditional Portuguese goods.

I was captivated by the hand-woven textiles, each piece a testament to the skill and artistry of the local weavers. I purchased a small tapestry, its intricate design reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage. Jan, meanwhile, was drawn to a display of locally produced olive oil, its golden hue and fruity aroma hinting at the region's fertile lands. We purchased a bottle, eager to savour its flavour back home in Delft. The shopkeeper, a friendly woman with a warm smile, shared stories about the artisans and their crafts, adding a personal touch to our shopping experience.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Sol e Mar for dinner, enticed by its reputation for fresh seafood and stunning sunset views. We weren't disappointed. The restaurant was perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, offering a breathtaking panorama of the coastline. The sky was ablaze with colour, the setting sun painting the clouds in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a truly magical sight, a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience delectable fast food at Sol e Mar, perfect for tourists seeking quick and tasty meals in beautiful Portugal.

We ordered a platter of grilled seafood, a generous assortment of prawns, squid, and fish. The seafood was incredibly fresh, its delicate flavour enhanced by the simple grilling. Amina, surprisingly, devoured the grilled squid, declaring it her new favourite food. Jan and I savoured every bite, washing it down with a glass of local red wine. The atmosphere at Sol e Mar was relaxed and romantic, the sound of the waves providing a soothing soundtrack to our meal. We lingered over dinner, enjoying the company and the view, reluctant to leave this idyllic setting.

As we walked back to our accommodation, hand in hand, I reflected on the day's experiences. We had hiked along stunning coastal trails, savoured delicious local cuisine, and discovered charming artisanal shops. But more importantly, we had connected with nature, with each other, and with the local community. The Rota Vicentina had exceeded all our expectations, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. I felt grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Rocha de Água d'Alto and Praia da Angra da Cerva, continuing our journey along this breathtaking coastline. I'm also looking forward to trying Statera Milfontes - Cocktail Bar, hoping to find a new favourite drink to add to my repertoire. Each day brings new adventures, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds. The prospect of discovering more hidden gems and immersing ourselves further in the local culture fills me with excitement. I'm particularly eager to see Rocha de Água d'Alto, as I've heard it offers some of the most stunning panoramic views in the region. And of course, I'm always on the lookout for delicious local cuisine, so I'm keen to try A Ilha for breakfast, A Barca Tranquitanas for lunch, and Zé Inácio for dinner. It's the simple pleasures, like good food and beautiful scenery, that make travelling so rewarding.

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I am reminded of the importance of sustainable travel and responsible tourism. It's crucial that we respect the environment and support local communities, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty and richness of the Rota Vicentina. This includes minimizing our environmental impact, supporting local businesses, and engaging with the local culture in a respectful and meaningful way. By travelling responsibly, we can contribute to the preservation of this incredible region and help ensure its long-term sustainability. It's a responsibility that I take seriously, and I encourage all travellers to do the same.

Until tomorrow, Adeus from the Rota Vicentina.