Family Adventure on Portugal's Costa Vicentina

Saying Goodbye to Paradise

As our family adventure on Portugal's Costa Vicentina draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared. This final day was all about soaking in the last moments of this stunning coastal landscape, creating memories that I know we'll cherish for years to come. It's amazing how quickly a place can feel like home, and Costa Vicentina has certainly captured a piece of our hearts.


Our last day began with a leisurely breakfast at Ao Largo Odeceixe. The café is located in the heart of Odeceixe, and the staff is known for being friendly and helpful. I opted for a strong café au lait, while Klara enjoyed a vegan smoothie bowl. Mateo, of course, chose a pastry that was gone in approximately 60 seconds. We sat outside, enjoying the town square before the bustle of the day began. It was a perfect way to start our day, fueling up for our adventures ahead.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Ao Largo Odeceixe, where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes in a charming setting.

After breakfast, we packed up the car and set off to explore the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina. This natural park stretches along the southwestern coast of Portugal and is known for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and rich biodiversity. As someone who appreciates sustainable living, I was glad to see how well-preserved the area is.

Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina, a natural haven on Portugal's stunning coast.

We decided to hike a portion of the Fisherman's Trail, a well-known route that hugs the coastline. The views were simply breathtaking – rugged cliffs plunging into the turquoise waters of the Atlantic. The wildflowers were in full bloom, adding vibrant pops of color to the landscape. Mateo was particularly fascinated by the white storks nesting on the cliffs, a unique sight in this coastal area.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

As we hiked, I couldn't help but think about how different this landscape is from the Brandenburg countryside near our home in Potsdam. While I love the tranquility of the lakes and forests there, there's something truly awe-inspiring about the raw power and beauty of the ocean. It's a reminder of the immense forces of nature that have shaped our planet.

After our hike, we drove towards Pessegueiro Island. This small island off the coast near Porto Covo has a fascinating history, with evidence of Carthaginian and Roman presence. We took a short boat trip to the island to explore the ruins of a 16th-century fort and imagine what life must have been like for the soldiers stationed there. The island is only 250 meters from the mainland, and was once used by Romans for fishing.

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

Mateo was thrilled to explore the island, climbing over the rocks and peering into the old fort. Klara, ever the architect, was intrigued by the construction techniques used in the fort's design. I enjoyed capturing the scenic views with my camera, trying to capture the essence of this historical place.

For lunch, we stopped at Bar da Praia do Almograve. This beach bar is located right on Almograve Beach, offering stunning views of the ocean. The beach is near the charming village of Longueira. I had grilled fish, while Klara enjoyed a salad with local cheese. Mateo, predictably, devoured a plate of French fries. The atmosphere was relaxed and cheerful, with the sound of waves providing a soothing soundtrack.

Experience the perfect beach retreat at Bar da Praia do Almograve, where stunning views meet delightful cuisine in a relaxed setting.

After lunch, we spent some time relaxing on the beach. Mateo built sandcastles, while Klara and I read our books and soaked up the sun. It was a perfect afternoon, a simple pleasure that we all appreciated. The beach itself is known for its natural beauty, with rock formations and golden sands.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to visit Boa Vida Social Club for a drink. This bar is located in Vale da Telha, near Aljezur. It's known for its relaxed atmosphere and connection to nature. I enjoyed a local beer, while Klara had a glass of Portuguese wine. Mateo sipped on a juice box, content after a day of adventures. I can see why people enjoy the spot so much; it's a great place for surfers and nature-lovers.

Discover the vibrant spirit of Boa Vida Social Club in Aljezur, where comfort meets culture and culinary delights await.

For our final dinner in Costa Vicentina, we chose O Zé, a restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine. We shared a variety of dishes, including seafood rice, grilled octopus, and black pork. The food was delicious, a fitting end to our culinary journey through Portugal. As we ate, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip – the stunning beaches, the challenging hikes, and the delicious food.

Discover O Zé: A charming restaurant in Monte Clérigo offering authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning coastal views.

As we head back to our accommodation for the night, I am already thinking about our journey back to Lisbon tomorrow. While I am eager to get back to Potsdam, a part of me will always remain here, on the rugged coast of Costa Vicentina. I am grateful for the opportunity to have shared this experience with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I am also grateful for the chance to share this journey with you all, my readers. I hope that my posts have inspired you to explore this beautiful region and discover its many wonders.

And with that, our Costa Vicentina adventure comes to an end. Thank you for following along, and I hope to see you on my next travel blog!