Family Adventure on the Rota Vicentina

Finding Paradise on the Fisherman's Trail

Today was a day of embracing the raw beauty of Portugal's Rota Vicentina. Trilho de pescadores. The salty air, the dramatic cliffs, and the hidden beaches—it all combined to create an unforgettable experience. I'm so excited to share the details of our journey, from the scenic trails to the delightful local flavors we discovered along the way.

Our Saturday began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Chaparro in Odemira. Jan, Amina, and I enjoyed traditional Portuguese pastries and strong coffee, fueling up for our hike along the famed Rota Vicentina's Trilho dos Pescadores, or Fisherman's Trail. The restaurant had a cozy, local vibe, and it was the perfect start to our day. It reminded me of the small cafes back in Houndé, where the sense of community was always so strong. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the pastries when we got back to Delft; perhaps I could even find a local African store to source some of the ingredients.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Chaparro in Odeceixe, where every meal tells a delicious story.

The Fisherman's Trail lived up to its reputation. As we set off, the views were simply stunning. The rugged coastline stretched out before us, with the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the cliffs. Amina was particularly excited, pointing out the various birds soaring overhead. I felt a sense of peace and connection to nature that's hard to find in our busy lives in Delft. The trail itself was well-maintained, though there were a few challenging sections with steep ascents and descents. Jan was a great help, always ready with a steady hand for Amina and me. He even managed to capture some amazing photos of the scenery.

The Rota Vicentina is more than just a trail; it's an immersion into the soul of Portugal.

Our hike led us to Praia do Brejo Largo, a hidden gem of a beach. The beach was secluded, with soft sand and clear water. Amina couldn't resist running straight into the waves, squealing with delight. Jan and I watched her, smiling, as she built sandcastles and chased the receding tide. The beach was so peaceful, a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. I took the time to just sit and observe the landscape, and felt a deep sense of gratitude for the beauty surrounding me. It was moments like these that made me realize how important it is to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature and my family.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Praia do Brejo Largo, a hidden gem on Portugal's Vicentina Coast, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

For lunch, we stopped at A Tasca in Odemira. This restaurant was a delightful surprise, offering traditional Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist. I opted for the seafood rice, while Jan chose the grilled fish. Amina, of course, went for the classic chicken and chips. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, filled with locals and tourists alike. It was clear that A Tasca was a popular spot, and I could see why. It reminded me of some of the bustling eateries in Burkina Faso, where the food is always flavorful and the company is always warm.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at A Tasca in Odeceixe - where every dish tells a story of local tradition and flavor.

After lunch, we decided to explore the local shops in Odemira. We stumbled upon Casa Zé Paulino, a charming clothing store. The store was filled with unique, locally crafted garments that reflected the rich culture and heritage of Portugal. I was immediately drawn to a beautiful hand-woven scarf, which I purchased as a memento of our trip. Amina found a cute dress with traditional Portuguese patterns, and she insisted on wearing it right away. The owner of the store was incredibly friendly, sharing stories about the local artisans and the history of the garments. It was a wonderful experience, and I felt like I was supporting the local community by shopping there.


Explore local fashion treasures at Casa Zé Paulino, a charming clothing store in Odemira offering unique styles and Portuguese craftsmanship.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Restaurante Sol Dourado for dinner. This restaurant was recommended to us by several locals, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant had a stunning view of the coastline, and the sunset was breathtaking. We ordered a variety of dishes, including the seafood platter and the grilled octopus. The food was fresh and flavorful, and the presentation was impeccable. Amina was particularly fond of the chocolate mousse for dessert. The staff was attentive and made us feel welcome. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. This restaurant is known for its seafood, and it reminded me of the fresh fish markets in Houndé, where my grandmother would always pick out the best catch of the day. I wished she could have been here with us to enjoy this meal.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Sol Dourado in Zambujeira do Mar, where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.

Today was more than just a day of sightseeing; it was a day of connection. We connected with nature, with each other, and with the local culture. As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day's events and felt a deep sense of gratitude. I am so lucky to be able to share these experiences with my family. I am also grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with you, my readers. I hope that my blog inspires you to explore the world and discover the beauty that it has to offer.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Parque Ecológico do Gameiro and Miradouro de Santa Maria. I'm looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery. We also plan to have breakfast at Altinho - Tapas e Petiscos, lunch at Naperon, and dinner at O Tarro. And perhaps, we'll end the day with a relaxing drink at Kalux Beach Bar & Surf School. I can't wait to share those experiences with you as well.

Until then, À bientôt!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention – I did forget my travel guidebook and an extra power bank! Note to self: always double-check the essentials, even when you think you're organized.