PORTUGAL COASTAL HIKING APRIL 14-22, 2018 TRIP SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS Hiking through a myriad of cinematic landscapes, from white sand beaches and thick forests, to limestone cliffs and rocky outcrops Hiking along the rugged coastline on the Fisherman's Trail Visiting historic castles, monasteries, and two sets of dinosaur tracks Exploring the culture of the nation's capital with a walking tour of some of Lisbon's oldest and most interesting neighborhoods Experiencing the unique maritime cuisine of Portugal Phone: 877-439-4042 Outside the US: 410-435-1965 Fax: 410-435-3084 Email: info@goodadventure.com
TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Apr 14-22, 2018 Location: Portugal Cost: $2,895.00 Activities: Hiking Arrive: Saturday, April 14th, in the lobby of our Lisbon hotel at 12:00 noon. Depart: Sunday, April 22nd, you can fly out anytime after 2pm TRIP OVERVIEW Portugal is the oldest nation-state in Europe, ancient in history and rich in maritime culture. We'll enjoy the view from the westernmost point of Europe, and soak in Portugal's diverse landscape by hiking along white sand beaches and through thick forests. We will explore fascinating historic sites including ancient castles, a lavish palace and abandoned monasteries. From there we head south to hike on the Fisherman's Trail of the Rota Vicentina, another of Portugals' jewels. The trail runs along the coastline where we will be awed by wild beaches, towering cliffs, beautiful wildflowers and nesting storks. Along the way we'll experience Portugal's cuisine and have the opportunity to indulge in some Portuguese wine. Maximum group size: 12 RATING This trip is designed for women who enjoy hiking and want to explore Portugal on foot. Hiking is generally 4-8 hours with elevation changes on dirt trails, sand, rocky paths, and occasionally uneven footing. A rating of 4 requires some aerobic conditioning, such as walking vigorously up hills, jogging, cross country skiing or stair stepping for 40-60 minutes at least 4-5 times a week. The area of Portugal we will be exploring is hilly, we recommend that you include stairclimbing in your fitness routine. Rating: 1 2 3 [4] 5. WHAT'S INCLUDED A local guide and an Adventures in Good Company guide 8 nights double occupancy lodging All meals from lunch on the first day through breakfast on the day of departure Airport transfer to hotel at 10AM for those arriving on the first day of trip, 4/14 All transportation within Portugal All entrance fees and activities as described in the itinerary Not included: Airfare to and from the Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), transfers to and from the trip hotel except for the day the trip begins, trip insurance, alcoholic beverages, gratuities.
OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 APRIL 14, SATURDAY A group transfer from the airport will be offered at 10 AM and our first meeting as a group will be at noon at our hotel in Lisbon. After greetings, introducing ourselves, and having a brief orientation to the trip we will set out on a walking tour of the older and more interesting neighborhoods in Lisbon. Get ready for the stairs and hills. Starting in the Bairro Alto we will walk down to Baixa-Chiado and visit the heart of the city center where we will stop for lunch before continuing to Alfama, the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon known for its warren of small winding streets. Next, we visit the Castelo de Sao Jorge. This ancient castle has recently been restored to its formal glory. We will return to our hotel in time to clean up and relax before sharing our first dinner together. Walking approximately 5 miles. DAY 2 APRIL 15, SUNDAY After breakfast, we head to Sintra, name of both the town and the Natural Park, and our home for the next three nights. It is one of Portugal's best known and most beloved sites, past and present, as evidenced by the castles and palaces built here over the centuries. We will start from the middle of town and wind our way up to the Castelo Dos Mouros (Castle of the Moors), originally built as a defensive outlook when Portugal was part of the Moorish Empire. From here we walk through gardens that were inspired by the Romantic poets. We will walk through the lovely grounds of Pena Palace to the palace itself, a multihued castle full of both quirks and history. We will tour the castle before descending the hill to the town of Sintra where there will be time to wander through the town on your own before dinner. Overnight, and the next two nights, at the Nova Sintra. Walking and hiking, approx 9 miles. DAY 3 APRIL 16, MONDAY We will drive to the west coast of Sintra to Magoito beach where we will start our hike on top of the cliffs. We will discover the village of Azenhas do Mar which has the shape of a crib with several ledges up the hill. We will reach Praia das Macas, a beach known for its white sand and great waves for surfing. We will continue walking along sandy paths and cliff tops to Cabo da Roca (Cape Roca), the westernmost point of Europe, once thought to be the edge of the world. Along the way we descend to Adraga beach, where we can enjoy a bowl of traditional soup; and Ursa Beach, a much wilder and less visited beach with striking rock formations and crashing surf. There are several endemic species of plants here found nowhere else in Portugal. From here we take a 30-minute ride back to Sintra for our second night there. Hiking approx. 9 miles.
DAY 4 APRIL 17, TUESDAY We will start from Peninha, a former sanctuary and pilgrimage site with amazing views of the Nature Park and surrounding area. We begin our descent to the coast by walking deep in the forest until we reach the coast. We will be amazed to watch the ground change from a deep orange to red tinged when we get closer to Guincho Beach. We will cross small villages on our way to Guincho, one of the most famous beaches for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing due to the steady and strong northern winds. Hiking approx. 5 miles. In the afternoon, you will have some time to explore Sintra and its tiny streets. DAY 5 APRIL 18, WEDNESDAY Today we head south to our first hike on the Fisherman's trail or Rota Vicentina. We will begin at its most northern point Porto Covo and discover the trail's charm by walking on the sand dunes with a vast array of amazing colours, aromas, and shapes until we reach the Pessegueiro Island. We will be awed at the cliffs we walk on, beaches we pass, and wildflowers we see. We will stop for lunch by the beach at IIha do Pessegueiro just outside of Porto Covo. After lunch, we will continue on the trail admiring the raw beauty of the coast line - 2 1/2 hour driving Hiking approx. 5 miles (don't let the low mileage fool you, there are lots of ups and down and sand to hike on.) DAY 6 APRIL 19, THURSDAY Today we start with a short boat ride across the Mira River. We will join the Fisherman's trail at the southern edge of Vila Nova de Milfontes and hike on top of the cliffs following along the coast. We will be treated to wild beaches, towering cliffs and spectacular wildflowers. We will be able to see many Swifts (similar to a swallow) as Alpine, Pallid and Common Swift all nest along the coast. We should also see storks which love to make their nests in high remote spots along the trail. We will have time to enjoy the beach and take a dive if you feel like it. Hiking approx. 7 miles
DAY 7 APRIL 20, FRIDAY We will hike on top of high cliffs that are the nesting site for over twenty species of birds, admire small fishing harbors, reddish sand dunes and smell the scent of pine tree forests. At times large agricultural fields stretch right down to the ocean. We will also see plenty of recreational fishermen and small Stone Age quarries amongst the dunes, a reminder that humans have been shaping this coastline since time immemorial. Hiking approx: 11 miles DAY 8 APRIL 21, SATURDAY Our hike will start in Zambujeira do Mar near the Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Mar, a white-washed simple nave temple dedicated to Our Lady of the Sea. We will walk on the beaches of Alteirinho, Carvalhal, Machados, and Amalia, named after the most famous Portuguese Fado Singer Amalia Rodrigues who used to spend her holidays there. We will continue towards the natural fishing harbor of Azenha and enjoy outstanding views at Ponta em Branco, the border between the regions of Algarve and Alentejo until we cross the shallow Seixe River (we will need our water shoes) and reach the beach of Odeceixe. Hiking approx. 9 miles DAY 9 APRIL 22, SUNDAY Sadly, we have to say good bye today. We will have a 2 3/4 hr trip back to the airport. You can plan to leave at anytime after 2pm or stay and explore Portugal even more!
ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE We will be flying into the Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS). We will offer a group transfer to the hotel at approximately 10AM on April 14. If you come the day before or arrive earlier or do not want to wait, we will be providing details on how to get to the trip hotel. The trip will officially start in the lobby of our hotel at 12:00 noon. If you would like help with any travel plans we recommend our travel agent Barbara Nelson, Scan East West Travel, at bnelson@scaneastwest.com or call 206-395-7836. ACCOMMODATIONS All accommodations are quality inns or guest houses. Day 1, Lisbon Hotel. Day 2-4, the Nova Sintra in Sintra. Day 5, the Vila Nova de Milfontes in Milfontes Day 6-8 the Herdade do Tourilin the countryside near Zambujeira do Mar. Vegetarian (and vegan) options for this trip are available but may be more limited than you are used to. If you are concerned about having enough protein during your trip, please bring some plant-based protein sources such as nut butter, instant dried hummus, or high-protein energy bars. If you cannot eat gluten or if you have other dietary restrictions, you will need to bring some supplemental food with you. Please contact the office if this is a potential concern for you. WEATHER The western portion of Portugal where we will be visiting has a Mediterranean climate with dry hot summers and mild winters. Average highs during the month of April will fall between the high 60s and low 70s, with the average lows falling in the low 50s. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use 20-0016 as your location number on the Get A Quote page.
PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair of lightweight hiking (boots or shoes) 1 pair of comfortable shoes for general use 1 pair of water shoes for crossing the river 2-3 pairs of hiking socks (wool or synthetic equivalent: Smartwool, Thorlo, Darn Tough) CLOTHING 1-2 pair of comfortable synthetic long pants for hiking - zip-offs work 1-2 pairs of shorts or ¾ pants (lightweight and quick drying) 3 synthetic or lightweight merino wool T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts 1 lightweight, long-sleeved shirt for hiking - button up front is the best 1 lightweight fleece jacket 1 rain jacket and rain pants waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex Underwear/nightwear 1 wide brimmed or baseball style hat for protection from the sun/rain 1 swimsuit 2 3 changes of casual clothes to wear at end of day TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hand sanitizer, shampoo, contact lens paraphernalia, sanitary supplies Sunscreen and lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, Compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, any personal medications Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide. EQUIPMENT/ESSENTIALS Passport and a photocopy of your passport 1 pair Trekking poles (strongly recommended) 1 daypack (see notes on packing list for recommended capacity) Capability to waterproof your backpack. Either a rain cover or a heavy-duty plastic bag to line your pack. Capacity to carry 2 liters of water (Please see Notes on Packing List) Sunglasses (100% UV protection) w/retention strap 220V 3-tier converter Small headlamp or flashlight 1 bandanas/buff Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep!) Wristwatch/travel alarm clock Tupperware-like container for sandwich/lunch OPTIONAL (personal preference, not required) Camera (extra battery) and film/memory card Book, notebook, journal, pencil/pen Compact binoculars Your favorite snack (snacks will also be provided) Wash cloth (typically European linens do not include a wash cloth) Short Leg Gaiters (to keep sand and dirt out of hiking shoes)
NOTES ON PACKING Adventures in Good Company's packing list covers everything you need to assure your safety and comfort. You may not use everything you bring; however, you need to come prepared for all possible weather conditions. At the same time, you must be able to carry your own luggage, sometimes up and down stairs. Bringing a duffel bag or soft-sided suitcase with wheels, rather than a hard-sided suitcase, is easier for packing in the van. As space for luggage on our trips is limited, please stick to the packing list as closely as possible. Daypacks: Your daypack should be large enough to hold the following items: 2 liters of water, rain gear, lunch/snacks (for the day), sun screen, warm layer (fleece pullover or vest), personal first aid kit and personal items such as camera,etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 1800 and 2400 cubic inches with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and lifters. Line your daypack with a durable plastic bag to keep your belongings dry, or have an elasticized pack cover that fits snuggly over it. Before you leave home check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all of your items. Note: Fanny-packs and hydration packs are not large enough to hold all of the items you will need for the day. Footwear: Well-fitting, sturdy boots or trail shoes are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new boots, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general hiking, lightweight or midweight cordura or leather boots with a Vibram sole work well. If you have weak ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury, get boots that come above the ankle you ll find that this will give you more support in uneven or slippery terrain. Remember to waterproof your boots before the trip. Even boots billed as waterproof need to be treated with a waterproofing product. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick Layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. Rain Gear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Your wind/rain pants should be comfortable, allow enough room for your layers, and permit free movement of your legs (for example, can you crouch comfortably?). Partial or full-length leg zippers are useful for easily putting your pants on over your boots. An inexpensive plastic poncho will both leak and tear easily and is not recommended. Hydration: Being able to easily access your water without assistance, so that you can drink frequently, is important to your safety and enjoyment. One method is to have a water bottle attached to your waist strap. Another option is to use a HYDRATION SYSTEM such as CamelBak, Platypus, and MSR bladder bags, which are collapsible water bags with a hose attachment that you drink from. The bags fit inside or outside your pack with the hose positioned over your shoulder so that you can access your water as you hike. Bladder bags can hold 1-3 liters of water. Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are highly recommended for this trip. Trekking poles contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability, and to your health by saving stress on your hips and knees. If you are not familiar with trekking poles, read this blog post that addresses the most commonly asked questions: http://blog.adventuresingoodcompany.com/blog-women-travel/bid/154714/trekking-poles-for-hiking-trips-the-4-mostcommon-questions.