Family Adventure on the Rota Vicentina

A Day of Discovery and Deliciousness

Today was a symphony of sights, sounds, and tastes that truly captured the essence of Portugal's Rota Vicentina. From cascading waterfalls to hidden beaches and delightful culinary experiences, every moment was a treasure. Join me as I recount our family's adventures in and around Vila Nova de Milfontes.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at A Ilha. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. Amina was particularly excited about the fresh fruit, while Jan enjoyed a traditional Portuguese pastry. I savored a strong coffee, a necessary fuel for the day’s adventures. It’s moments like these, sharing simple pleasures, that make traveling with family so special. I am so glad that we decided to make this trip with the family, it has been amazing to see Amina experience a new culture and learn about a different way of life.


Discover A Ilha - An exquisite restaurant on Ilha do Pessegueiro offering authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning coastal views.

After breakfast, we set off to Rocha de Água d'Alto. The drive itself was picturesque, with rolling hills and quaint villages dotting the landscape. When we arrived, the sight was simply breathtaking. The waterfall cascaded down the rock face, creating a serene and almost magical atmosphere. Amina was fascinated, and Jan, ever the photographer, captured the scene from every angle. I took a moment to simply listen to the water and feel the cool mist on my face. It was a refreshing escape from the midday sun. Though I have seen waterfalls before, there was something special about this one. Maybe it was the fact that it was hidden away in the Portuguese countryside, or maybe it was the fact that I was sharing the experience with my family.


Explore Rocha de Água d'Alto, a magnificent hiking area in Vila Nova de Milfontes, where stunning coastal views and diverse nature await adventurous travelers.

The beauty of Rota Vicentina lies not just in its landscapes, but in the moments of connection it fosters with nature and loved ones.

Next on our itinerary was Praia da Angra da Cerva. This hidden gem required a bit of a hike, but the reward was well worth the effort. As we descended towards the beach, the views of the Atlantic coastline were stunning. The beach itself was secluded and pristine, with soft sand and crystal-clear water. Amina loved playing in the sand, building castles and collecting seashells. Jan and I took a refreshing dip in the ocean, feeling the invigorating power of the waves. I have to admit, the hike back up was a bit challenging, but the sense of accomplishment and the stunning views made it all worthwhile. I am so glad that we decided to come to this beach, it was truly a hidden gem. I wonder if the locals know how lucky they are to have such a beautiful place in their backyard.


Experience the tranquil charm of Praia da Angra da Cerva, a hidden beach gem on Portugal's stunning Algarve coast, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

For lunch, we headed to A Barca Tranquitanas , a restaurant known for its fresh seafood and stunning views. We indulged in a variety of local specialties, including grilled octopus, seafood stew, and a refreshing vinho verde. The flavors were exquisite, and the ambiance was perfect. The restaurant overlooked the ocean, providing a stunning backdrop to our meal. It was the perfect spot to relax and recharge after our morning adventures. I am so glad that we decided to come here for lunch, it was truly a culinary experience. The seafood was so fresh and the views were simply stunning. I will definitely be recommending this restaurant to anyone who visits the area. The friendly staff even accommodated Amina's request for plain pasta, which she devoured happily.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at A Barca Tranquitanas, a traditional restaurant on the breathtaking Costa Vicentina coastline.

As the afternoon waned, we explored Vila Nova de Milfontes , a charming town with narrow streets and whitewashed buildings. We strolled through the town square, admiring the local architecture and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Amina enjoyed chasing pigeons, while Jan and I browsed the local shops. I picked up a few souvenirs, including a beautiful hand-painted tile and a bottle of local olive oil. It was a lovely way to experience the local culture and support the community. I am so glad that we decided to explore this town, it was truly a hidden gem. The people were so friendly and the atmosphere was so vibrant. I will definitely be recommending this town to anyone who visits the area.

Before dinner, we decided to stop by Statera Milfontes - Cocktail Bar for a pre-dinner drink. The bar had a relaxed and trendy vibe, with a creative cocktail menu. I opted for a local gin and tonic, while Jan tried a craft beer. Amina enjoyed a refreshing juice. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. I am so glad that we decided to come here for a drink, it was the perfect way to end the day. The cocktails were delicious and the atmosphere was so relaxed.


Discover Statera Milfontes, the premier gastropub in Vila Nova de Milfontes, offering delicious local cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails.

Dinner was at Zé Inácio , a restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. We feasted on grilled fish, roasted vegetables, and a delicious seafood rice. The food was simple but flavorful, showcasing the best of local ingredients. Amina particularly enjoyed the grilled fish, while Jan raved about the seafood rice. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the wonderful day we had shared as a family. I am so glad that we decided to come here for dinner, it was truly a culinary experience. The food was so delicious and the atmosphere was so cozy. I will definitely be recommending this restaurant to anyone who visits the area. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Zé Inácio, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of the simple joys of life: good food, beautiful scenery, and the love of family. Rota Vicentina has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Speaking of tomorrow, we are planning on visiting the Lagoas de Santo André e da Sancha Nature Reserve and the Castle of Aljezur. I am particularly excited to explore the nature reserve, as I have heard that it is a haven for birdwatchers. I am also looking forward to visiting the Castle of Aljezur, as I am fascinated by history and architecture. I am sure that tomorrow will be another day filled with adventure and discovery.

Until then, goodnight from Vila Nova de Milfontes!

The Rota Vicentina has a lot of events taking place in May, but unfortunately we could not attend any today. Perhaps we will have better luck tomorrow.

The sun has set, and the stars are starting to appear. It's time for me to rest and recharge for another day of exploration. I am so grateful for this opportunity to travel with my family and experience the beauty of Portugal. I am also grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences with you, my readers. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Until tomorrow!

I am also happy to report that I did not forget any of the trip essentials today. I am so glad that I remembered to bring my hiking boots, sunscreen, reusable water bottles, Portuguese phrasebook, and camera. I am also glad that I remembered to bring my travel guidebook and extra power bank, which I had forgotten on previous days.