Family Adventure on the Rota Vicentina

A Day of Discovery in Aljezur

Today was a day of exploration and indulgence here in Aljezur, a charming town nestled along Portugal's Rota Vicentina. We started with breathtaking views and ended with a delightful taste of local culture, making it a day to remember. It's amazing how much beauty and flavor can be packed into a single day when you're open to adventure!

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at O Josué. I had read about their traditional Portuguese pastries, and I was eager to try them. Jan opted for a strong coffee and a local cheese toast, while Amina was thrilled with a warm pastel de nata. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our day of sightseeing. The cozy atmosphere of the café made us feel right at home, a sentiment I always cherish when traveling with my family. It reminded me of the small cafes back in Houndé, where the sense of community is just as important as the food itself.

With our bellies full, we set off to Ponta da Atalaia. The drive itself was stunning, with rolling hills and glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean. When we arrived, the view was simply breathtaking. The rugged cliffs met the turquoise sea, creating a dramatic landscape that stretched as far as the eye could see. Amina was particularly fascinated by the crashing waves, and Jan, ever the photographer, was snapping away, trying to capture the perfect shot. I felt a sense of awe, thinking about how this coastline has been shaped by the forces of nature over millennia. The fresh sea air invigorated us, and we spent a good hour simply taking in the beauty of the surroundings.


Experience the unparalleled beauty of Ponta da Atalaia, a scenic spot in Algarve offering breathtaking coastal views and nature trails.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest moments, like gazing at the vast ocean and feeling connected to something larger than ourselves.

Next on our itinerary was the Santa Clara Dam. It was quite a drive inland, and the landscape transformed from coastal cliffs to rolling hills dotted with cork oak trees. The dam itself was an impressive feat of engineering, and the reservoir created a serene lake surrounded by lush vegetation. We took a leisurely walk along the dam, enjoying the tranquility of the area. It was a stark contrast to the rugged coastline we had visited earlier, but equally beautiful in its own way. I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of water management and sustainable practices, especially in regions like this where water resources are precious. The dam serves not only as a source of hydroelectric power but also provides irrigation for the surrounding lands.


Explore the stunning landscapes and tranquil waters of Santa Clara Dam, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Portugal.

By lunchtime, we were ready for a culinary adventure at Restaurante Museu da Batata Doce. This restaurant is famous for its sweet potato-inspired dishes, and I was intrigued to see what they had to offer. We started with a sweet potato soup, which was creamy and flavorful. For our main courses, Jan chose the black pork cheeks stewed with sweet potato, Amina had a vegetarian lasagna also featuring sweet potato, and I opted for the octopus à lagareiro with sweet potato. Each dish was a unique and delicious celebration of this humble ingredient. It was fascinating to learn that the owner of the restaurant is also a sweet potato producer, ensuring a fresh and constant supply of this local specialty. The meal was a true testament to the versatility of sweet potatoes and the creativity of Portuguese cuisine.


Discover the unique flavors of sweet potatoes at Restaurante Museu da Batata Doce in Rogil - where culinary creativity meets local tradition.

After lunch, we decided to explore the town of Aljezur itself. We wandered through the narrow, cobblestone streets, admiring the whitewashed houses with their colorful flowerpots. The town has a charming, laid-back atmosphere, and we enjoyed soaking in the local culture. We visited the Aljezur Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. From up there, we could see the Aljezur plains, the Monchique mountains, and the sea. It was a reminder of the rich history of this region, shaped by Moorish influences and centuries of Portuguese heritage.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Taberna Vicentina, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Portuguese drinks. We ordered a round of local wine and some petiscos (Portuguese tapas), and settled in to enjoy the evening. The bar was filled with locals, and we struck up a conversation with a friendly fisherman who shared stories about his life at sea. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community and learn more about their traditions. I always find that these spontaneous encounters are the most rewarding part of traveling, offering a glimpse into the authentic lives of the people who call these places home.


Experience the essence of Portuguese cuisine at Taberna Vicentina, where every dish is a celebration of local flavors and traditions.

For dinner, we had made reservations at Rita, a restaurant known for its fresh seafood and cozy ambiance. The restaurant was tucked away in a quiet corner of Aljezur, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We started with a plate of grilled sardines, a local specialty. For our main courses, we chose a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled sea bass, shrimp risotto, and clams in garlic sauce. Each dish was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were incredibly fresh and vibrant. Amina, who is usually a picky eater, even tried the sea bass and declared it delicious! The experience reminded me of the importance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, a value that is deeply ingrained in Burkinabé cuisine as well.


Discover Rita: A culinary haven in Zambujeira do Mar offering fresh seafood and breathtaking ocean views.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the stunning coastal views to the delicious sweet potato dishes and the warm hospitality of the locals, Aljezur had captured our hearts. It was a day of discovery, connection, and pure joy.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Serra do Cercal and Monte Carvalhal da Rocha, venturing further into the natural landscapes of the Rota Vicentina. I'm particularly excited about the hike, and Jan is already planning his photography shots. Amina is looking forward to seeing more wildlife, and I'm eager to learn more about the local flora and fauna. Before that, we will grab breakfast at Dong Jing, lunch at O Sacas and dinner at Mar Azul Restaurant & Bar. We might even visit bio-loja, a local shop.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we took one last stroll through the town, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of Aljezur at night. The stars were shining brightly, and the air was filled with the scent of jasmine. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day, leaving us feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of this hidden gem in Portugal.

As I write this, tucked away in our cozy accommodation, I am filled with a sense of contentment. These are the moments that make travel so worthwhile – the chance to explore new places, connect with different cultures, and create lasting memories with my family. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but wonder what adventures tomorrow will bring. Perhaps I should remember to buy a travel guidebook, since I forgot it at home. I should also buy an extra power bank, just in case.

Until then, Boa Noite from Aljezur!