I recently returned to walk the Rota Vicentina in Portugal, a magical and awesome place. This time, I started in Santiago Cacem, about a two hour drive south of Lisbon, and finished 275 kilometres later in Lagos. It took a total of 56 hiking hours and about two dozen Tostas and Bifanas, ubiquitous and tasty local sandwiches.

Time slowed down during the entire trip, whether walking through cork forests, crossing an empty beach, or standing on the edge of a cliff to watch the waves roll in. Though there are challenging stages along the way, the walk is enjoyable and the towns on each end of the stages welcoming and relaxing.

I will likely take a break from this walk only because this is my fourth time and I am itching to explore elsewhere, and the area is becoming more popular and built up. Still, I recommend this walk and the solitude one can still find along the way, as well as the breathtaking views. Happy hiking!