Family Adventure on the Rota Vicentina

A Day of Discovery Along the Rota Vicentina

Today was a day of exploration and wonder here on the Rota Vicentina. With the family in tow, we set out to discover the unique beauty of this coastal paradise, venturing from dramatic cliffs to hidden river beaches. It's amazing how much natural beauty can be packed into a single day.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ao Largo Odeceixe. I had heard great things about their vegan options , and as someone who tries to incorporate sustainable choices into our travels, I was eager to try it. The granola bowl with plant milk was delicious, and Jan was thrilled with his coffee. Amina, of course, loved the fresh fruit. Fuelled up, we were ready to start our adventure.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Ao Largo Odeceixe, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Our first stop was the Farol Cabo Sardão. The drive there was beautiful, with rolling hills and wildflowers lining the roads. As we approached the coast, the landscape transformed into dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. The lighthouse itself is a striking structure, perched right on the edge of the cape. What made this spot truly special was the unique sight of storks nesting on the cliffs. I learned that this is a rare phenomenon, as storks typically nest on rooftops or trees. Seeing them here, against the backdrop of the ocean, was truly remarkable.


Experience the breathtaking views and stunning sunsets at Farol Cabo Sardão, a must-see lighthouse on Portugal's dramatic coastline.

We spent some time walking along the cliff tops, taking in the breathtaking views. The wind was strong, carrying the scent of the sea, and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks was mesmerizing. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family. Jan, ever the photographer, was busy capturing the scenery, while Amina was fascinated by the wildflowers growing along the path.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are the ones hidden just off the beaten path.

After the lighthouse, we decided to find a more secluded spot for a midday swim. Our destination was Pego das Pias, a hidden river beach known for its natural beauty. The drive there took us through winding country roads, and the last stretch was along a dirt track, but it was well worth the effort. Pego das Pias is a true hidden gem, a series of natural pools and small waterfalls nestled among the rocks. The water was cool and refreshing, perfect for a swim on a warm day. Amina loved splashing around in the shallow pools, while Jan and I enjoyed exploring the rock formations.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Pego das Pias, a serene natural attraction in São Luís, Portugal, renowned for its stunning waters and picturesque landscapes.

It was so peaceful and quiet, a world away from the bustling beaches we often visit. I imagined this was the perfect location to find the legendary golden treasure that surfaces every year on the night of São João. Though we visited during the day, the magic of the place was palpable. We spent a couple of hours swimming and relaxing before packing up for lunch.

Lunch was at A Azenha do Mar, a restaurant known for its fresh seafood and stunning views. We had heard that reservations were recommended , but we decided to try our luck anyway. Fortunately, we were able to get a table on the terrace, overlooking the ocean. The view was indeed spectacular, and the seafood was incredibly fresh. Jan and I shared a grilled fish platter, while Amina opted for a simple pasta dish. Everything was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. It was a bit pricier than other places, but we felt it was worth it for the experience.


Discover authentic Portuguese seafood at A Azenha do Mar with stunning ocean views and an unforgettable dining experience.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to indulge in one more local experience. We headed to Bruxa do Mar Brewing, a local brewery that I had read about. I am always keen to support local businesses, especially those that are committed to sustainable practices. We sampled a few of their beers, and I particularly enjoyed their lager. It was refreshing and flavorful, the perfect way to end a day of exploring. Jan, a software engineer by trade, was curious about the brewing process, and we had a great conversation with the owner about the challenges and rewards of running a small brewery. Amina enjoyed a refreshing juice, and we all relaxed in the laid-back atmosphere.


Experience the authentic taste of Costa Vicentina at Bruxa do Mar Brewing, where craft beer meets local tradition.

For dinner, we chose Taberna do Gabão in Odeceixe. The restaurant had a cozy, Alentejo feel, with blue accents and a welcoming vibe. We sat outside and enjoyed the evening breeze. Jan and I shared the fish skewer and feijoada, both recommended by the staff. Amina enjoyed a simple grilled chicken. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. It was the perfect way to end a fantastic day.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Taberna do Gabão in Odeceixe, where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.

As I reflect on our day, I am struck by the diversity of experiences we had, from the dramatic cliffs of Cabo Sardão to the tranquil waters of Pego das Pias, the fresh seafood at A Azenha do Mar, the local flavors of Bruxa do Mar Brewing, and the traditional cuisine of Taberna do Gabão. The Rota Vicentina is truly a special place, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic experiences.

Tomorrow, we plan to continue our exploration of the Fisherman's Trail and Praia do Brejo Largo. I am excited to see what other hidden gems we will discover along the way.

And as a side note, I realised I forgot to pack a travel guidebook! Oh well, relying on local tips and spontaneous discoveries makes the adventure even more exciting, right? I'm also making a mental note to get a better power bank – all these photos are draining my battery!