Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Discover Tavira and the eastern Algarve through scenic walks, cultural experiences, and coastal highlights. Stay in Tavira while exploring inland hills, traditional villages, and the Ria Formosa. Visit fishing communities, historic landmarks, and beautiful beaches, with time to relax and enjoy the region’s charm at your own pace.
The Algarve
Half Board with dinners at the hotels and in local restaurants
Coast & Islands
Landscape
Mar
Jun
Oct
Average group size: 12-14
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What does this mean?
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This grade 4 walking holiday includes walks at a moderate pace over undulating terrain. Half days will be approximately 3 hours of walking and full days will be approximately 5 hours of walking.
Usual daily walks
Distance: up to 10 miles depending on the programed activity (info provided in each day’s description);
Ascent/Descent: between minimal and 300m (info provided in each day’s description).
Terrain: generally good paths and tracks, footpaths, cobbles and steps, tarmac, occasional rough/muddy underfoot sections, sand/sandy tracks.
Walking poles and weather protection (rain/hot weather days) are suggested for comfort and safety.
Flexi-Walking
Our walking program is carefully designed to offer an optional shorter route on many of the walks. It gives you the flexibility of walking either the planned route or choosing a shorter distance and catching up with the group later in the day.
Please note that not all walks offer the option of flexi-walking for different reasons, such as the location of the walk. Your leader will be able to provide you with more details about individual walks during your holiday.
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Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.
Jump To: Overview
Overview
Experience the very best of Tavira and the eastern Algarve, combining scenic walking routes, cultural discovery, and coastal beauty into a well-balanced holiday. Based in Tavira throughout your stay, you will enjoy comfortable accommodation, providing an ideal base for exploring the region.
Your journey begins with your arrival at Faro Airport, where you will be met and privately transferred to Tavira. Depending on your arrival time, you may take part in an orientation walk before enjoying a welcome dinner at the hotel. Over the following days, you will set out on guided walks that reveal the rich diversity of the Algarve landscape. Inland routes through areas such as Cotovio and Mata da Conceição take you across rolling hills, cork oak forests, and traditional villages, where you can discover historic features like old mills and communal bread ovens.
You will also explore the striking coastal scenery of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Walks around Santa Luzia and Tavira Island offer the chance to observe birdlife, including flamingos, while experiencing the charm of local fishing communities. You will visit notable landmarks such as the Anchor Cemetery and enjoy stretches of golden beaches, peaceful lagoons, and a scenic ferry crossing.
As your journey continues, you will pass through picturesque villages such as Santa Catarina do Bispo and Cacela Velha, where traditional Algarve architecture and the distinctive Barrocal landscape come to life. Highlights include reaching Vila Real de Santo António near the Spanish border and visiting São Brás de Alportel, known for its cork heritage and strong cultural identity.
With flexible walking options available, you can enjoy the programme at a comfortable pace. A free day also gives you time to relax at the hotel or explore Tavira at leisure, often referred to as the “Venice of the Algarve.”
Return flights from London to Faro.Airport transfers.En suite four-star hotel accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, including local tourist tax.Half board with four dinners taken in local restaurants and three in the hotel., with wine or soft drinks included.All local transport required for the itinerary by private coach/public bus/train/boat.Services of a Classic Tour Leader.Flexi walking options.Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)Discretionary tipsOptional excursionsTravel InsuranceClick the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
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Explore the treasures of the region as you make your way to Europe's most south westerly corner at Cape St Vincent. Discover pretty whitewashed villages with intriguing Moorish influences, explore the ancient capital of Silves and walk the impressive Seven Hanging Valleys trail while taking in towering red cliffs and the mighty Atlantic.
CloseOur holiday walking grades
Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.
Search all Moderate, Grade 4 walking holidays
Average daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks.
Please note this is a guide only; you should refer to the specific Holiday Information Sheet for the holiday that you are looking at for detailed day to day itinerary and grading information.
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What's NewExperience the highlights of Northern Portugal on this scenic 10 night journey through rivers, coastlines and historic towns. You walk sections of the Caminho de Santiago, explore lush valleys, and discover charming villages before reaching the Atlantic coast. Enjoy cultural visits, mountain landscapes and time to relax by the sea, ending in Porto with its iconic architecture and wine. This well-paced holiday blends guided walks, local heritage and stunning natural diversity
CloseOur holiday walking grades
Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.
Search all Moderate, Grade 4 walking holidays
Average daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks.
Please note this is a guide only; you should refer to the specific Holiday Information Sheet for the holiday that you are looking at for detailed day to day itinerary and grading information.
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What's NewDiscover the timeless landscapes, fortified towns and rich flavours of Portugal’s Alentejo region on this relaxed cultural walking holiday. Based from the historic border town of Elvas, this journey combines gentle walks with fascinating heritage sites, vineyard and olive oil tastings, and a visit across the border into Spain. Expect wide open plains, white marble towns, medieval hilltop castles, and excellent local food and wine.
CloseOur holiday walking grades
We still class this level as leisurely; walks are generally a little longer than level 2, with undulations but over a longer distance. Where sightseeing distances are longer, we take a full day with opportunities to stop, rest and refuel. Generally, itineraries involve easy countryside walking with plenty of breaks.
Search all Leisurely, Grade 3 walking holidays
Average daily walks - Distance: 4 miles; Ascent/Descent 300m; Terrain: generally good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Half Day or Full Day walks.
Please note this is a guide only; you should refer to the specific Holiday Information Sheet for the holiday that you are looking at for detailed day to day itinerary and grading information.
Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Meals
Accommodation
Fly from the UK to Faro, on Portugal's beautiful Algarve. A private coach transfer takes you along the coast to the hotel in Tavira. Depending on flight arrival times, there may have an orientation walk of the town before dinner at a local restaurant.
Transfer Time = 1
Meals
Accommodation
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Discover a unique walk where every step reveals the authenticity of the Algarve hills and the charm of traditional villages. Along the day, you´ll see old communal bread ovens, and traditional old mills. The landscape is shaped by gentle hills, narrow valleys and wide views over the inland countryside.
This walk is also an invitation to explore the local nature: among cork oaks, strawberry trees, rockroses and a rich diversity of aromatic plants and wild animals, such as birds, insects, reptiles and mammals. Passing by the Peres Dam adds a moment of serenity, with the reservoir’s calm waters contrasting with the dry hillside landscape, offering an ideal spot for a break and quiet contemplation. The walk ends near the wildlife sanctuary park of Mata da Conceição.
Terrain: tarmac, footpaths, good dirt tracks (may be muddy), some sections may be rough underfoot. Opt out at 5.5 miles.
Meals
Accommodation
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Experience the best of Tavira on this immersive walking tour, where culture, history, and nature come together. The journey takes you through ancient salt pans and the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a unique habitat home to flamingos and diverse birdlife. You’ll stroll through the charming fishing village of Santa Luzia, known as the octopus capital, and explore Praia do Barril with its iconic Anchor Cemetery, historic buildings and an old railway line that remained from the tuna fishing industry.
The adventure continues with a scenic stretch along Tavira Island, where golden sands, dunes, and sparkling ocean views invite you to unwind.
The day includes a memorable ferry crossing between the town and the island, offering breath-taking views over the lagoon and town, completing a day that perfectly blends nature, heritage, and authentic Algarve charm.
Terrain: tarmac, cobbles, cycling paths, dirt tracks, sand. Opt out at 6 miles.
Meals
Accommodation
Distance
Ascent/Descent
This walk is an ideal escape for those seeking an authentic Algarve experience, blending flora, fauna, and local culture into a memorable walking day. The walk winds through Santa Catarina do Bispo and Mesquita, quaint hamlets where traditional Algarve architecture and rural life come alive. You will walk through the distinctive Barrocal landscape with its limestone outcrops, cork and holm oaks, olive groves, and wildflower-strewn meadows.
Along the way, you may spot birds and other local wildlife, while streams and hidden springs have long shaped both the landscape and the communities. “Moinho do Bengado” or the Bengado wind mill, is an iconic old mill standing as a testament to the area’s heritage and traditional rural industry is one of the highlights of the day.
Terrain: good dirt tracks (may be muddy), tarmac, foot paths, some sections may be rough underfoot. Opt out at 5 miles.
Meals
Accommodation
Today is a free day, perfect to enjoy the Hotel’s facilities and explore the Venice of Algarve.
Meals
Accommodation
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Begin an unforgettable walk in the stunning historic village of Cacela Velha, perched above the marshes of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Known for its charming whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and panoramic views over the lagoon and the Atlantic, Cacela Velha is where history and natural beauty come together. From here, the walk winds along scenic coastal paths through Manta Rota, Altura, and Praia Verde,
while observing the rich local shrubs, wildflowers, and birdlife. Along the way, the combination of golden sands, sparkling sea, and vibrant flora and fauna makes every step a true feast for the senses.
The journey continues through fragrant pine forests, guiding you toward Vila Real de Santo António, perched on the banks of the Guadiana River at the border with Spain, with its riverside charm and traditional architecture. Here, we’ll have time to enjoy a short break to relax and explore the vibrant local shops and cafés.
Terrain: tarmac, cobbles, foot paths, boardwalks, sandy tracks, dirt tracks. Opt out at 7 miles.
Meals
Accommodation
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Explore the charm of the Algarve countryside on this scenic walk, where streams have shaped the landscape and supported life for centuries. The journey begins at Fonte Férrea, a serene spot surrounded by rolling hills, cork oaks, and diverse wildlife, offering a true escape into nature. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque farms and traditional villages, witnessing the deep connection between the land, its people, and local culture. From the walk, you can also observe the iconic Arimbo community and its dam.
Our day also includes a visit to the Costume Museum in São Brás de Alportel, the cork capital of the Algarve. Here, the region’s history, cork industry, and traditional clothing come alive. With breath-taking views of the surrounding hills and countryside, this experience beautifully blends nature, heritage, and local identity, making it a journey not to be missed.
Terrain: foot path, tarmac, good dirt tracks (may be muddy), some sections may be rough underfoot. Opt out at 5.5 miles.
Meals
Say goodbye to beautiful Tavira and transfer to Faro Airport for the return flight to the UK.
From (GBP)£1,899 With flights and transfers
Departure dates for your selected tour
14th Mar 2027 - 21st Mar 2027 (7 Nights)
13th Jun 2027 - 20th Jun 2027 (7 Nights)
3rd Oct 2027 - 10th Oct 2027 (7 Nights)
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
Tavira is one of the most picturesque towns of the Algarve. This charming town is decorated with tropical palm trees and lies along the tranquil Gilao River, separating two sides of the town. You will find an maze of winding streets and shaded squares lined with whitewashed houses, decorated with colourful Arab style tiles, flower filled balconies and painted strips of blue and yellow decorating door and window frames. Keep an eye out at the individual door knockers on every building, influenced by Moorish design and were once believed to protect the house from evil spirits. At the centre lies the lovely Praça da Republica, bordered by trees, fountains and restaurants. A short boat ride across the turquoise sea takes you to tranquil Tavira Island, a beautiful oasis in which to sit back and watch the world go by. Just a short walk from the hotel are a variety of shops, cafes, bakeries and restaurants. You will also find banks, ATMs and chemists close by. During the winter season, the town can be a little quieter as there may be less tourists and you may find some shops have shorter opening hours.
A short stroll from Tavira's lively centre is the four star Maria Nova Lounge located on a quiet hillside within the town. The hotel offers wonderful panoramic views over the town and the surrounding hillsides. Perhaps take a relaxing swim in the outdoor swimming pool or have a drink at the pool bar, both set in delightful gardens filled with palm trees and colourful flowers. Maybe relax in the indoor swimming pool or try the gym and wellness centre. The use of the facilities are free of charge but for massages you will need to book and pay a fee at reception. The hotel includes a highly rated restaurant and after a days exploration enjoy a drink in the incredible rooftop bar and its breath-taking panoramic views over Tavira town.
You'll stay in contemporary standard twin and double bedded en suite rooms. Single rooms are usually twin bedded for sole use. Our groups have the run of the house but if you would like to guarantee a pool view then please contact our Sales & Reservations department who can provide you with upgrade details.
Rooms are bright with modern stone décor and furnishings. Facilities include:
Towels for use at the hotel's pool are available on site. If you wish to go to the beach, you should bring your own beach towel.
Trip Information
This grade 4 walking holiday includes walks at a moderate pace over undulating terrain. Half days will be approximately 3 hours of walking and full days will be approximately 5 hours of walking.
Usual daily walks
Distance: up to 10 miles depending on the programed activity (info provided in each day’s description);
Ascent/Descent: between minimal and 300m (info provided in each day’s description).
Terrain: generally good paths and tracks, footpaths, cobbles and steps, tarmac, occasional rough/muddy underfoot sections, sand/sandy tracks.
Walking poles and weather protection (rain/hot weather days) are suggested for comfort and safety.
Flexi-Walking
Our walking program is carefully designed to offer an optional shorter route on many of the walks. It gives you the flexibility of walking either the planned route or choosing a shorter distance and catching up with the group later in the day.
Please note that not all walks offer the option of flexi-walking for different reasons, such as the location of the walk. Your leader will be able to provide you with more details about individual walks during your holiday.
Optional Excursions
At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.
Currency in Portugal
The currency in Portugal is the euro. We recommend you take some euro cash with you until you reach an ATM as credit cards may not be accepted in some towns and rural areas so please ensure you always have cash with you.
Tour Leaders
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Fly from London to Faro airport on Portugal's Algarve coast. Transfers from Faro Airport to your hotel will be by road and will take approximately one hour.
On some occasions there may be a slight delay at the airport, as you may have to wait for other regional flights to arrive before continuing on our transfer, and similarly on departure.
Please be aware that during the earlier months and later months of the year, some flights may be due to arrive into Faro airport late afternoon. Therefore, dinner on your arrival day may be later than normal, and taken in the hotel or at a local restaurant. Those on later arrival flights may be transferred directly from the airport to dinner.
Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements
If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.
Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.
If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.
Although airport/station transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport/station, depending on your arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.
Please be aware that you must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight/train arrival to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point or independent travel arrangements to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.
Personal Details Check
Please ensure your personal details, including your passport information and date of birth, are accurate and up to date, and that we have all the information needed to arrange your holiday. If you have any dietary allergies or intolerances, please let us know.
You can view and update your details using Manage My Booking on our website or by contacting our Sales & Reservations team on +44 (0)1707 331133. Please check your booking confirmation carefully and notify us of any changes as soon as possible.
Portugal Passport 2026
The new EU Entry/Exit system has been rolled out across all applicable countries. For Portugal 72 hours prior to travelling should you wish to, you can complete some of this information before you travel.
Whilst you will still need to go through border checks and passport control, pre completion of the questionnaire may help ease waiting times at the overseas airport. You can find more information, including where to download the app, here: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/ees/Travel-to-Europe-mobile-app
European Passport Advice
For the latest passport requirements and entry guidance for your destination, please check the GOV.UK Foreign Travel Advice website before you travel.
If you are travelling on a non-British passport, please check entry requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate.
Breakfast and dinner are included in the holiday price. Dinners are taken at the hotels (buffet dinner) or in local restaurants. Wine and soft drinks are included at all evening dinners.
Based on the Mediterranean diet, Portuguese dishes are simple and traditionally cooked with locally sourced fresh ingredients, seasoned with olive oil and salt.
When travelling with a group, local restaurants will ask you to pre-order from a set menu. It will usually include a Portuguese vegetable soup for starters, and you’ll be given options to choose a main of meat, fish, or a vegetarian dish.
Vegetarian options are available only if we are informed in advance, although Portuguese cuisine consists mostly of meat and fish.
Lunches are not included in the holiday price and can be taken as picnics or in local cafes when available.
Footwear
Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.
General Kit List
Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.
If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:
This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.
Electricity in Portugal
Electricity is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/
Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Health Advice for Portugal
For the latest health advice and entry requirements for Portugal, please visit the GOV.UK travel advice for Portugal and NaTHNaC.
Further Travel Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses, mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
If you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you are unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland, please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
EHIC & GHIC Cards
Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.
It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.
For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.
When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!
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Average weatherJanuary
Avg. Rain: 109mm
February
Avg. Rain: 93mm
March
Avg. Rain: 75mm
April
Avg. Rain: 66mm
May
Avg. Rain: 52mm
June
Avg. Rain: 26mm
July
Avg. Rain: 12mm
August
Avg. Rain: 16mm
September
Avg. Rain: 44mm
October
Avg. Rain: 91mm
November
Avg. Rain: 111mm
December
Avg. Rain: 120mm
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