It’s a step change all right putting off a summer getaway for a Portustroll in shoulder-season.
But shoulder season, or autumn travel away from the burning summer heat, is this year’s travel trend.
And because we’re always ahead of the curve we’re lacing up our walking boots next month on the Portuguese Way for our Camino.
But more of that later we’ve got to get a shift on here to tell you of the walks you can enjoy this shoulder season.
The shoulder season in Portugal, the geographical shoulder of Europe.
Shoulder to shoulder with its Iberian neighbour Spain.
Bordering on the meticulous
The charms of Alcoutim: The longest continuous border in Europe, dating back to 1297, gives the gentle stroller the chance to straddle two ancient nations.
You’ll start and finish your 4.6km walk in the Praça da República (Square of Republic).
The trail takes walkers through the border city of Alcoutim.
And reveals iconic landmarks, the Castle of Alcoutim, the ruins of the Old Castle, the Praia Fluvial, and the River Guadiana landscapes.
There is also the chance to cross over to the other side of the river and visit the Spanish town of Sanlúcar del Guadiana.
Stroll to the beach
Rota Vicentina Circular routes Amado (Rated: Moderate): OK, you start and finish at the Amado beach on this moderate 7.75km walk but you get the picture.
And you get to wash your feet in the Atlantic swell at the end on the beach which incidentally is Portuguese for beloved.
This coastal trail offers a blend of wildlife, rare flora and fascinating geology.
Hikers can spot native birds and wildlife, admire globally rare cliff-top plants, and explore landscapes shaped over 300 million years ago.
Hot foot in the Algarve
Rota Vicentina Historical Way Carrapateira – Vila do Bispo: And one for those British sitcom friends and you might not BELIEVE it.
But our Portuguese pals call this route 21.4km moderate.
You’ll start your journey at Largo do Comércio, Carrapateira and end, and say a prayer, next to the main church in Vila do Bispo
And, of course, the Algarve will show many of its dramatic landscapes, where rugged mountains meet the coast.
Along the way, hikers can spot native flora, protected temporary ponds.
And a variety of wildlife, including rare birdlife and the endemic Triops vicentinus, an indigenous prehistoric tadpole shrimp.
All of which conjures up all that lovely seafood to keep you going on your travels.
Walk this way
Section 7 of the Via Algarviana Salir–Alte: And because we like a challenge, this, the seventh section of the Via Algarviana, is calling us.
You’ll start your 16.4km odyssey in the square next to the Mother Church of Salir.
And finish in the Fontes de Alte Natural Springs.
Now the terrain is rural paths, traditional villages, and farmland that reflect the region’s agricultural heritage.
Along the way, walkers can admire old stone walls, water wheels.
And the impressive Rocha da Pena Protected Landscape, renowned for its rich biodiversity and local legends.
The route continues through the picturesque village of Benafim.
Before following the peaceful Ribeira de Alte to the scenic Fontes Grande and Pequena, ending in the charming village of Alte.
Walking season
Alternatively, visitors can visit the Algarve Walking Season website to find out about upcoming walking events.
And for a comprehensive guide to walking opportunities throughout the year in the Algarve.
Visitors can easily view the calendar of all walking festivals in the region, including their locations and key features.
It also provides regular updates on these festivals and walking-related news in the area.