There’s Something for Everyone in the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentina Coast
The Rota Vicentina has it all: trails suited for young children, family-friendly accommodations, a world of fun and educational nature-based activities—whether on land or at sea. With so many choices and guaranteed fun, if you’re looking for a family-friendly itinerary in southwest Portugal, you’re in the right place.
The secret to a great trip lies in good planning. When it comes to the Rota Vicentina, that step is essential—not only because parts of it run through a Natural Park with its own set of rules, but also due to seasonal factors like high temperatures or accommodation availability.
Therefore, the recommended time to walk the trails of the Rota Vicentina is from September to June, outside the high season. Not only are the temperatures more pleasant, but the landscape is also unmissable. And the local economy will thank you for it.
Before setting out, check our Rota Vicentina Help Guide, where you’ll find essential information to make the most of the 750 km of trails and the 75,000 hectares of protected land that form the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentina Coast Natural Park (PNSACV), stretching from the Alentejo into the Algarve.
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip while aligning with the principles of responsible tourism we advocate for this magical region. If possible, take your time to explore everything the Rota Vicentina has to offer.
A Natural Park is a biodiversity sanctuary, home to sensitive habitats and rare species. It’s everyone’s duty to protect and respect it.
Want to learn more about the unique flora of the PNSACV? Click here. Got a budding citizen scientist in the family? We’ve got resources for them too.
Four Golden Rules When Visiting:
Stick to the marked trails and respect local communities
Leave no waste behind
Observe without disturbing
Support local businesses
Ready? Let’s go on an adventure!
A Great Place to Stay
Rota Vicentina is unique in part because it’s supported by a network of local businesses aligned with responsible tourism—key to preserving this incredible region.
Choosing to stay with these local partners is a personal commitment to sustainability.
On our website, you can find more than 100 local partners with whom you can book your stay directly.
When traveling as a family, it’s essential to find accommodations that can host groups of different sizes.
Campgrounds are always a good option—here’s a list in both Alentejo and Algarve regions.
18 Trails to Explore with the Family
With 750 km of walking trails available, there’s no shortage of options.
There are three types of trails:
Fishermen’s Trail: Along the stunning coastline
Historical Way (GR11-E9): Inland through peaceful countryside and mountains
Circular Routes: Shorter loops starting and ending in the same location—ideal for beginners and families with kids
We’ve selected 11 Circular Routes that are family-friendly, easy, and scenic, ranging from 1–3 hours in length. All are clearly marked in both directions, easy to access, and great for families with strollers or baby carriers.
In the Alentejo:
Sissal Beach Circular Trail (4.5 km)
Cercal do Alentejo Circular Trail (7.5 km)
Mediterranean Ponds Circular Trail (6 km)
S. Luís Gardens Circular Trail (3.5 km)
Senhora das Neves Circular Trail (5 km)
S. Teotónio Heathlands Circular Trail (8.5 km)
Santa Clara to the Lake Circular Trail (10 km)
In the Algarve:
Amoreira Circular Trail (7 km)
From Bordeira to the Sea Circular Trail (6 km)
Endiabrada & Hidden Lakes Circular Trail (7 km)
Vilarinha Circular Trail (5 km)
A child can typically walk the number of kilometers that matches their age.
To enhance the experience, consider hiring a nature guide who can transform a simple walk into a rich learning experience about the local biodiversity, medicinal plants, cultural heritage, and regional traditions. Meet our Nature Guides.
Prefer Two Wheels? No Problem.
If your family loves biking, the Rota Vicentina has a network of cycling routes for all levels.
Here are 7 family-friendly cycling routes in Alentejo, perfect for beginners and kids:
Riverside Park (1.5 km)
Vale Covas (3.5 km)
Hortinhas (4 km)
Barragem (12 km)
Cerca do Montado (5.5 km)
Ribeira de Gema (8.5 km)
Perlinha (9.5 km)
Don’t have bikes? You can rent them here.
Remember: Whether walking or cycling, proper hydration, sun protection, and appropriate gear are a must—especially for the younger explorers.
Activities on Land and Sea
The Rota Vicentina offers a blend of coastal and inland landscapes, with a vast array of nature-based and cultural activities for the whole family.
On Land
Want to take home a piece of the Southwest’s identity? Then visit some of the region’s shops, ceramic studios, and artisan workshops. You’ll find authentic, local products to use, eat, or cherish as souvenirs.
Nature lovers will enjoy birdwatching, pottery making, basket weaving, or even walking with a local shepherd—experiences that children will love.
And don’t leave without tasting the local flavors: traditional Alentejo and Algarve cuisine, wines, liqueurs, and the iconic Medronho spirit.
At Sea
Whether you’re into surfing, bodyboarding, kitesurfing, fishing, snorkeling, or freediving, southwest Portugal is a marine paradise.
Kids can enjoy the sea too—surf schools and water sports operators welcome families and provide safe, fun experiences.
Boat trips for dolphin watching, marine life tours, and visits to hidden caves and rock formations are also fantastic ways to enjoy the coast and learn about marine habitat conservation.
There’s no shortage of reasons to bring the whole family to explore Rota Vicentina.
A browse through our website can help you plan the perfect itinerary based on your family’s preferences.
And don’t forget to tell us how your trip went! Share your adventures with us on social media at @rotavicentina.
Have a great journey!
Margarida is half-Porto native, half-Alfacinha. She’s from Porto, but lived for many years in Lisbon. She comes from the world of journalism, where she began her career, then moved into institutional communications and press relations. A lover of words, cats, and movies, she’s discovered the Alentejo as a destination full of revelations.
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