Update on the risk of landslides on the Fishermen’s Trail

Following confirmation of a possible risk of collapse on one of the sections of the Fishermen’s Trail, near the iconic Amália Beach, on the Zambujeira do Mar » Odeceixe stage, to ensure the safety of walkers, the route was diverted to a safer area, while maintaining the logic of a large linear route.

The deviation, initially considered a short-term solution, has now been in place for two years, due to various factors that continue to delay a solution that matches the quality of the Rota Vicentina trails. Here’s a brief history.

From the beginning, our priority was to find a solution that would maintain the trail’s original route, passing through the emblematic Praia da Amália. The first proposal involved building a safe infrastructure on the affected site. However, the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA) did not approve this option due to safety concerns and the project did not go ahead.

Together with the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF), we identified a second alternative that would keep the trail relatively close to the coast. This proposal involves building a bridge and wooden stairs, ensuring the safety of hikers and the continuity of the trail. This alternative has been approved by the APA and ICNF.

However, we are now facing a new obstacle: the approval of the owner of the area where the bridge would be built. We continue to work with all the parties involved to ensure that this solution is viable.

For the time being, the diversions near Praia da Amália on the Zambujeira do Mar » Odeceixe stage remains in place. We realise that the alternative route doesn’t offer the same experience as the original trail, but safety is our priority. Despite the risk of collapse, some fishermen and hikers continue to use the banned route, which represents a real danger.

We appeal to users of the Fishermen’s Trail to follow the directions of the alternative route and respect the safety instructions. Our mission is to provide a safe experience.

Thank you for your patience and support. For further information or questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.