Solo Adventure on the Rota Vicentina: Hiking Portugal's Scenic Trails

A Day of Coastal Exploration

Today was all about soaking in the beauty of Vila Nova de Milfontes and its surroundings. I started my day with a hearty breakfast, explored the unique volcanic formations of Rocha Negra, indulged in some local cheese, and savored the flavors of Alentejo cuisine. Each moment felt like a step deeper into the heart of Portugal's coastal charm.


Experience the enchanting beaches, rich culinary traditions, and vibrant culture of Vila Nova de Milfontes, a coastal paradise in Portugal's Alentejo region.

The sun was already warming the cobblestones as I set out for breakfast at Rocamar. This cozy spot, open from early morning, was just what I needed to fuel up for the day. I enjoyed a traditional Portuguese breakfast of strong coffee and a *pastel de nata*, watching the town slowly wake up. Rocamar had a friendly atmosphere, and I appreciated the simple, satisfying start to my day.


Discover Rocamar: A culinary gem offering fresh local cuisine in a charming coastal setting.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I headed towards Rocha Negra, a striking rock formation just a short distance from Vila Nova de Milfontes. The walk there was beautiful, with the scent of wildflowers in the air and the sound of the ocean accompanying my every step. As I approached Rocha Negra, its dark, almost black appearance stood in stark contrast to the colorful cliffs surrounding it.


Explore Rocha Negra in Praia da Luz: a breathtaking coastal attraction with stunning cliffs, scenic views, and tranquil escapes in the Algarve.

Rocha Negra, also known as Ponta das Ferrarias, is the remains of an ancient volcano that was active around 70 million years ago. The geological history of this area is fascinating, with multicolored layers of sedimentary rocks telling tales of the sea's advances and retreats over millions of years. Walking along the base of the cliffs, I felt like I was traversing through time, each layer a page in the Earth's history book.

To truly see the beauty of a place, you must first understand its story.

The black rock itself is composed of basalt, a testament to the area's volcanic past. I spent some time exploring the rock formations, marveling at the way the lava had cooled and solidified into unique shapes. It was incredible to think that this quiet, peaceful spot was once the site of intense volcanic activity. The views from Rocha Negra were breathtaking, with the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean stretching out before me. I could see the waves crashing against the shore, creating a symphony of sound that was both calming and invigorating.

After immersing myself in the geological wonders of Rocha Negra, I decided it was time to sample some local flavors. I made my way to Queijaria Caprino de Odemira, a cheese shop known for its artisanal cheeses made from cow and goat milk. The drive to Odemira was scenic, with rolling hills and picturesque countryside views. Upon arriving at the *queijaria*, I was greeted by the owner, Ana Lúcia Viana, who was passionate about her craft.


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

Ana Lúcia explained that the *queijaria* was initially founded by Paula, a Portuguese fashion photographer, and Massimo, an Italian radio producer, who decided to trade Milan for Odemira to open a cheese shop. Now, Ana Lúcia and her husband run the family business, creating nine different types of cheese, five from cow's milk and four from goat's milk. I sampled a variety of cheeses, each with its own unique flavor profile. The *Curado Classic*, a long-curing goat cheese, was particularly memorable, having won an honorable mention in the Queijos de Portugal Contest. I purchased a selection of cheeses to enjoy later, along with some local bread and olives.

For lunch, I stopped at Alma Nomada Porto Covo, a restaurant recommended for its Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant had a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere with a touch of luxury. I decided to try the seafood rice, which was packed with fresh seafood and bursting with flavor. The service was excellent, and the staff were friendly and attentive. It was a truly delightful culinary experience, and I left feeling satisfied and content.


Discover Alma Nomada in Porto Covo: A Culinary Haven with Stunning Coastal Views and Exquisite Local Cuisine.

In the late afternoon, I returned to Vila Nova de Milfontes and strolled through the town's charming streets. The white-washed houses with colorful doors and windows were a delight to photograph. I walked along the riverfront, admiring the historic Forte de São Clemente, a 16th-century fortress built to protect the village from pirates. Although the fort was closed to the public, I enjoyed walking around its walls and taking in the panoramic views of the Mira River.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to Mar Azul Restaurant & Bar for dinner. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. I ordered grilled fish, which was cooked to perfection and served with a side of roasted vegetables. The flavors were simple yet exquisite, allowing the natural taste of the fish to shine through.


Savor authentic Nepalese cuisine at Mar Azul Restaurant & Bar in Almograve - where every dish tells a story.

The sunset was spectacular, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. I savored every moment, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of Vila Nova de Milfontes. I thought of Lena back in Berlin, and how much she would have loved this place. I made a mental note to bring her here someday.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Lagoas de Santo André e da Sancha Nature Reserve and Monte Carvalhal da Rocha. I'm looking forward to discovering more of the natural wonders that this region has to offer. Before heading to bed, I might check out Statera Milfontes - Cocktail Bar for a nightcap, but I think I might just rest up for tomorrow's adventures.

This solo journey continues to surprise and inspire me. Each day brings new discoveries and unforgettable experiences. As I reflect on today's adventures, I am reminded of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life. Whether it's the taste of local cheese, the sight of volcanic rock formations, or the sound of waves crashing against the shore, there is beauty to be found in every moment. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but feel excited for what tomorrow will bring.

This trip is a reminder that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones you take alone. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, to connect with nature and yourself, and to discover the hidden gems that make each destination unique. And as I continue my journey along the Rota Vicentina, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder for the world around me. The worries and stress of Berlin fade away with each passing mile, replaced by a sense of peace and contentment that I haven't felt in a long time.

Perhaps it's the fresh air, the stunning scenery, or the sense of freedom that comes with solo travel, but whatever it is, I am truly enjoying every moment of this adventure. And I can't wait to see what tomorrow has in store.

The stars are out now, and the night is quiet. Time to rest and recharge for another day of exploring the Rota Vicentina. Goodnight from Vila Nova de Milfontes!