Exploring the Natural Beauty of Costa Vicentina with Friends

Adieu, Costa Vicentina!

As the sun dips below the horizon on our final day in Costa Vicentina, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey Pieter and I, along with our friends, have experienced. From the rugged cliffs to the tranquil beaches, this slice of Portugal has captured our hearts. Today was a day of serene exploration, a fitting end to our week-long adventure dedicated to nature and sustainable living. It's amazing how a place can feel so familiar in such a short time, and I'm already dreaming of our return!

Our last day began with a hearty breakfast at O Zé. The fresh pastries and strong coffee set the tone for a day of exploration and reflection. It's funny how the simplest things, like a well-made pastry, can become a cherished memory when experienced in a beautiful setting. After breakfast, we packed our essentials – reusable water bottles, eco-friendly sunscreen, and of course, my trusty camera – and set off to discover the hidden gems that Costa Vicentina had in store for us.

Our first stop was Praia da Foz dos Ouriços, a beach known for its tranquility and difficult access. The somewhat challenging path was absolutely worth it. Tucked away from the crowds, this beach felt like a secret haven. The golden sands met turquoise waters, framed by rugged cliffs – a photographer's dream. I spent a good hour simply wandering along the shore, capturing the natural beauty with my camera, while Pieter and our friends enjoyed the refreshing sea breeze. It's moments like these that remind me why I love sustainable travel; preserving these unspoiled landscapes is crucial for future generations. As I watched the waves gently roll onto the shore, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and gratitude for the opportunity to experience such natural beauty.


Experience breathtaking views and pristine beaches at Praia da Foz dos Ouriços, a hidden gem along the Rota Vicentina in Portugal.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After soaking up the sun and serenity at Praia da Foz dos Ouriços, we drove towards Pessegueiro Island. The island has a rich history, having been occupied by the Carthaginians and Romans. As we approached, the island's fort came into view, a testament to its strategic importance throughout history. We took a boat trip to the island, eager to explore its hidden corners and learn more about its past. The island is part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, which only adds to its allure. The island is small, but has a lot of history.


Explore the natural beauty and historical charm of Pessegueiro Island, a tranquil retreat in Portugal ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Exploring Pessegueiro Island was like stepping back in time. The fort, though partially in ruins, offered panoramic views of the coastline. I imagined what life must have been like for the soldiers stationed there centuries ago, defending the coast from pirates and invaders. Pieter, ever the history enthusiast, shared stories of the island's past, adding depth to our experience. We even found remnants of Roman salt tanks, a reminder of the island's early days as a fish processing center. The island is also tied to the legend of Our Lady of Queimada, where Barbary pirates encountered a Christian hermit.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante Sol Dourado. We savored fresh seafood while enjoying the views of the Atlantic. The restaurant's commitment to local cuisine resonated with our sustainable travel ethos. I opted for a vegetarian dish, and it was delicious.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning ocean views at Restaurante Sol Dourado in Zambujeira do Mar.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Sunset Café, a local bar known for its stunning views. Sipping on local wine, we watched the sun paint the sky with vibrant colors. It was the perfect way to bid farewell to Costa Vicentina. We reminisced about our favorite moments – the challenging hikes, the secluded beaches, and the delicious food. We also talked about how we could incorporate the lessons we learned on this trip into our daily lives back in Delft. I'm already thinking about how to bring some of that Portuguese sunshine back home with me, maybe by trying out some new vegan recipes inspired by the local cuisine.


Experience the flavors of Portugal at Sunset Café, a cozy café in Zambujeira do Mar offering a menu rich in local and international dishes.

Costa Vicentina has been more than just a vacation; it's been an immersion into a world where nature and culture intertwine seamlessly. It's a reminder that sustainable living isn't just a concept, but a way of life. And as we prepare to return to our daily routines, we carry with us the memories and lessons learned on this incredible journey. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with you all, and I hope it inspires you to embark on your own sustainable adventures.

Despite having forgotten my light rain jacket, power adapter, and sunglasses, the trip was a success. I'm glad I got to share it with Pieter and our friends.

Tomorrow, we fly back to Amsterdam. It's always a mix of emotions – sadness to leave such a beautiful place, but also excitement to return home and share our experiences with friends and family. Until next time, Costa Vicentina!

Reflecting on Sustainability

As a sustainability consultant, I often find myself analyzing the environmental impact of my travels. Costa Vicentina stands out as a region that genuinely embraces eco-friendly tourism practices. From the locally sourced food to the emphasis on preserving natural landscapes, it's a model for sustainable tourism.

The Rota Vicentina, with its well-maintained trails and commitment to responsible hiking, is a prime example. The local businesses, many of which are family-run, prioritize sustainability, creating a positive impact on the community. I was particularly impressed by the efforts to minimize waste and promote recycling. It's inspiring to see a region that not only values its natural beauty but also takes concrete steps to protect it.

I believe that sustainable travel is not just about reducing our carbon footprint; it's about supporting local communities and preserving cultural heritage. Costa Vicentina exemplifies this approach, offering an authentic and enriching experience for travelers while minimizing its environmental impact. It's a testament to the power of responsible tourism and a reminder that we can all make a difference by choosing to travel sustainably.

Final Thoughts

As I sit here, penning these final words, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and inspiration. Costa Vicentina has been a transformative experience, reaffirming my commitment to sustainable living and responsible tourism.

I encourage each of you to seek out destinations that prioritize sustainability and offer authentic cultural experiences. Whether it's exploring a local market, hiking a nature trail, or simply engaging with the community, there are countless ways to travel more responsibly. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, one adventure at a time. And who knows, maybe our paths will cross on a future sustainable journey! Until then, happy travels!

It's time to pack my bags, say goodbye to Costa Vicentina, and prepare for the journey home. But the memories and lessons learned here will stay with me forever. Thank you for joining me on this incredible adventure. I hope it inspires you to explore the world with a sense of curiosity, respect, and a commitment to sustainability. Safe travels, everyone! The experience has certainly given me a lot to think about, and I look forward to sharing more insights and tips on sustainable travel in future blog posts.