Family Adventure on the Rota Vicentina

Adieu, Rota Vicentina

As our eleven-day family adventure on the Rota Vicentina draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've undertaken. From the charming villages to the breathtaking coastal trails, every moment has been etched into our memories. Today, we embraced the final day with open hearts, eager to soak in the last glimpses of Portugal's natural beauty before heading back to Delft.

Our day began in the cozy town of Odeceixe. We enjoyed a delightful breakfast at Ao Largo Odeceixe. The warm atmosphere and friendly staff made us feel right at home. I savored a vegan hummus sandwich, while Jan and Amina relished the granola bowl with plant milk. It was the perfect start to our last day on the trail. The food was so delicious that we even took an extra sandwich for a takeaway.


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

With our appetites satisfied, we set off towards the southeast, eager to explore the Castro Marim and Vila Real de Santo António Marsh Natural Reserve. The drive itself was scenic, winding through rolling hills and quaint countryside. As we approached the reserve, the landscape transformed into a vast expanse of wetlands, teeming with life.


Discover the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Castro Marim and Vila Real de Santo António Marsh Natural Reserve, a haven for nature lovers in Portugal's Algarve.

The Castro Marim Marsh Natural Reserve stands as Portugal's oldest nature reserve, established in 1975. This remarkable wetland, recognized internationally, spans over 2,000 hectares near the Guadiana River's estuary. It is a haven for diverse fauna and flora, boasting around 153 bird species, including flamingos, storks, and avocets, alongside over 400 plant varieties and various reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. The area's salt marshes, bodies of brackish water, salt pans, and estuaries create a rich habitat supporting numerous species.

We parked the car and ventured into the reserve, armed with our binoculars and cameras. The air was filled with the songs of birds, and the sight of flamingos wading in the shallow waters was simply mesmerizing. Amina was particularly thrilled, pointing and giggling at the elegant birds. We spent hours wandering along the trails, observing the diverse ecosystem and learning about the importance of preserving these precious wetlands.

The journey may end, but the memories will last a lifetime.

After immersing ourselves in the tranquility of the marsh, we continued our drive towards the coast, our destination being Pontal da Carrapateira. The landscape shifted dramatically as we approached the rugged coastline. The dramatic cliffs and crashing waves of Pontal da Carrapateira provided a stunning contrast to the serene marshlands we had just left behind.


Experience the stunning cliffs and pristine beaches of Pontal da Carrapateira, a scenic spot in Portugal's Algarve, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

Pontal da Carrapateira is a small peninsula known as one of the Algarve's best spots for seabird watching. Between Praia da Bordeira and Praia do Amado, the high, craggy cliffs of Pontal offer a unique geological landscape. In some areas, access is challenging, with ropes aiding the descent.

We parked near the trailhead and embarked on a hike along the Pontal da Carrapateira Trail. The views were simply breathtaking. The powerful waves crashed against the cliffs, creating a symphony of sound and a spectacle of nature's raw power. We spotted various seabirds soaring overhead, their calls echoing in the wind. The fresh sea air invigorated us as we walked, hand in hand, along the edge of the world.

As we hiked, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Jan, ever the supportive partner, shared interesting facts about the local geology and marine life. Amina, with her boundless energy, skipped ahead, discovering hidden treasures along the way. These are the moments that make travel so special – the shared laughter, the unexpected discoveries, and the strengthening of bonds that will last a lifetime.

By lunchtime, our stomachs were rumbling, so we drove to Torralta Restaurant in Carrapateira. We enjoyed a delicious meal overlooking the ocean. The fresh seafood and local delicacies were a perfect representation of the region's culinary delights. Amina devoured her fish and chips, while Jan and I savored a traditional Portuguese dish.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Torralta with fresh ingredients and stunning ocean views in a cozy atmosphere.

After lunch, we decided to indulge in some local shopping. A short drive took us to Queijaria Caprino de Odemira, a renowned cheese shop in Odemira. As a renewable energy consultant, I'm always drawn to sustainable and locally sourced products, and this cheese shop was a perfect example. We sampled a variety of goat cheeses, each with its unique flavor and texture. We ended up buying several different kinds to take back to Delft, eager to share the taste of Portugal with our friends and neighbors.


Explore the rich flavors of Odemira at Queijaria Caprino, the go-to grocery store for artisanal cheeses and local delicacies.

The Queijaria Caprino de Odemira is a family-run business that produces both goat and cow cheese, sourcing around 200 liters of milk daily from regional producers. They offer nine cheese varieties, including five cow cheeses and four goat cheeses. The owners, Ana Lúcia Viana and her husband, took over the business seven years ago and have dreams of expanding nationally and internationally, particularly to countries like France, Luxembourg, and Belgium.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Sagres, where we had booked our final dinner at Manjedoura Restaurante Bar. We reminisced about our favorite moments from the past eleven days. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food were the perfect ending to our Rota Vicentina adventure. The restaurant is known for its mix of Italian-inspired dishes and traditional Alentejo flavors, creating a unique culinary experience.


Experience vibrant dining at Manjedoura Restaurante Bar in Vila Nova de Milfontes - where local flavors meet exceptional cocktails.

Manjedoura Restaurante Bar is more than just a place to eat; it’s a vibrant spot that embodies the spirit of family and friends. It combines the best of Tasca do Celso’s beloved dishes with Italian inspirations from Mano a Mano, all while maintaining an Alentejo touch.

With full hearts and satisfied appetites, we returned to our accommodation, ready for a good night's sleep before our journey back to Amsterdam. As I lay in bed, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. We had successfully navigated the Rota Vicentina with our family, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Portugal. It was an experience that would stay with us forever.

Reflecting on our journey, I realize how important it is to embrace sustainable and responsible travel practices. By supporting local businesses, respecting the environment, and engaging with the community, we can ensure that future generations can enjoy the same wonders that we have experienced. As a renewable energy consultant, I am passionate about promoting sustainable solutions, and I believe that travel can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and inspiring change.

Tomorrow, we start our journey back home. There is no specific itinerary, as our trip concludes. We will cherish the memories made along the Rota Vicentina and carry the spirit of adventure with us as we return to our lives in Delft. Until next time, Portugal! A bientôt!

This trip has not only been a vacation but a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature, embracing different cultures, and cherishing the bonds of family. As we prepare to return to our daily routines, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to continue exploring the world in a sustainable and meaningful way. The Rota Vicentina has left an indelible mark on our hearts, and I am confident that the lessons we have learned and the memories we have created will guide us on our future adventures. Perhaps our next journey will take us back to Burkina Faso, to share the beauty and culture of my homeland with Amina and Jan. The possibilities are endless, and the world is waiting to be explored.

I am grateful for the opportunity to share our experiences with you through this blog. Your support and encouragement have inspired me to continue writing and sharing my passion for travel. I hope that our journey has inspired you to embark on your own adventures, to explore the world with an open mind and a compassionate heart. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey along the Rota Vicentina. Until next time, au revoir!