Best Places to Stay on the Original Fisherman’s Trail

The original Fisherman’s Trail in Portugal is a scenic coastal route from Porto Covo to Odeceixe, known for stunning landscapes, rugged cliffs, and charming seaside towns. Choosing the right accommodations can enhance the experience, offering restful places to recharge after a day’s hike. Here’s a guide to the best towns to stay in along this section of the trail, with recommendations for budget, mid-range, and higher-end accommodations along the way.

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How Long is the Fisherman’s Trail in Portugal?

Day 1: Porto Covo to Vila Nova de Milfontes	20 km (average time 6:30 hours)
Day 2: Vila Nova de Milfontes to Almograve	15 km (average time 5:30 hours)
Day 3: Almograve to Zambujeira do Mar	22 km (average time 6 hours)
Day 4: Zambujeira do Mar to Odeceixe	18 km (average time 5:30 hours)
Day 5: Optional Circular Hike from Odeceixe	16 km (average time 3:45 hours)

Most people hike this as a point-to-point, starting in Porto Covo and ending in Odeceixe. This can easily be hiked south to north as well. And, it is certainly possible to stay in one or two places while hiking the trail. For example, I stayed in Vila Nova de Milfontes for the first half, and Odeceixe for the second half, making use of the local buses and occasionally, a taxi. Read more about planning the hike logistics here.

Can You Camp Along the Fisherman’s Trail?

Because the Fishermen’s Trail is located in the Natural Park of the Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina, it’s forbidden to camp for the night. Additionally, there are no bonfires and no leaving trash. That said, there are campgrounds along the route that you can use. We’ve included recommended campsites below.

Do You Need to Reserve Fisherman’s Trail Lodging in Advance?

Unlike the camino routes, with their many albergues, the Fisherman’s Trail has more limited lodging. During peak hiking season, you’ll want to reserve as far in advance as possible. If you hike during shoulder or off-season, you can book a bit closer to your hike, or even last minute. I booked my lodging in October about a week in advance. That said, private rooms in hostels were fully booked at that point.

1. Porto Covo

The trail’s starting point is in Porto Covo, a charming coastal village with whitewashed houses and idyllic beaches. Its tranquil vibe makes it an ideal spot to begin the journey. Top things to see and do in town:

• Visit its many stunning beaches;
• Walk through the main square, Praça Marquês de Pombal,
• Enjoy an ice cream or gelato from Prime,
• Visit one of the many beaches (the largest staffed with lifeguards is Praia Grande).

If you’re looking for a bit of history, take a side trip to Sines to visit the castle, town museum, and Vasco de Gama statue.

Best Places to Stay Fisherman’s Trail: Porto Covo

Budget: Mute Hostel	An eco-friendly hostel offering dorms and private rooms, Mute Hostel blends affordability with a laid-back, modern vibe. It’s designed with sustainable elements and offers a friendly, social environment for budget travelers. Enjoy the rooftop bars with incredible seaside, trail, and sunset views.
Moderate: Calmaria Guesthouse	This boutique guesthouse offers a homely yet stylish setting with individually decorated rooms and a peaceful courtyard. Guests enjoy personal touches and attentive service in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, very convenient to the trail.
Higher-End: Porto Covo Praia Hotel & SPA	Overlooking the beach, Porto Covo Praia Hotel & SPA offers elegant rooms with sea views, a full-service spa, and an outdoor pool. It’s perfect for those seeking luxury and relaxation right by the ocean and right by the trail.
Camping Porto Covo	This well-equipped campground is just outside the village, offering both tent sites, caravan sites, and small apartments. With easy access to Porto Covo’s beaches and amenities like a pool, bar, restaurant, mini-market, and picnic areas, it’s a convenient choice for hikers starting their journey

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2. Vila Nova de Milfontes

The vibrant town of Vila Nova de Milfontes is a favorite on the trail. Known for its lively atmosphere and surf town vibe, diverse dining options, and stunning river and ocean views, it offers plenty of places to unwind. Most stay here after the first day of hiking, but it is also a great spot for a rest day or to use as a base for day hikes. Top things to do in Vila Nova de Milfontes include:

• Visit one of the 3 beautiful and sandy beaches, or 4, including Praia das Furnas across the river,
• Take a surf, or wing foil lesson or rental on the river or in the ocean;
• Kayak or SUP (paddle board) on the river;
• Rent a bike and head to Porto Covo, Almograve, or Praia da Malhão (note that you cannot bike on the sandy trails, but rather on dirt roads typically).

Best Places to Stay Fisherman’s Trail: Vila Nova de Milfontes

Budget: Mute Hostel Milfontes	A continuation of the popular Porto Covo location, Mute Hostel Milfontes offers private and shared rooms with eco-conscious design. It’s budget-friendly and has a welcoming atmosphere, making it a hit among hikers and backpackers
Moderate: Apartments Dunemar	These self-catering apartments provide comfortable, spacious accommodations with fantastic views of the river beach and easy access to the ocean beach. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a balance between convenience and independence.
Higher end: Casa Do Adro Da Igreja Turismo De Habitação	A historic guesthouse set in a 17th-century building, Casa Do Adro offers luxurious rooms with authentic Portuguese decor and excellent hospitality. Guests enjoy homemade breakfasts and thoughtful touches that enhance the experience.
Camping Milfontes	Located just outside the town center, Camping Milfontes offers teepees, bungalows, and mobile homes, a swimming pool, a small grocery store, and a restaurant. It’s popular among hikers and is close enough for quick trips into town while still providing a peaceful setting.

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3. Almograve

Almograve is a peaceful coastal village known for its broad sandy beaches and quiet charm, offering a restful stop along the trail. Top things to do in Almograve:

• Praia do Almograve (Almograve Beach)
• Beach Bar at Almograve Beach
• Igreja Matrix de Almograve (church)

Best Places to Stay Fisherman’s Trail: Almograve

Budget: Almograve Beach Hostel	A simple, comfortable hostel close to the beach, Almograve Beach Hostel is ideal for budget-conscious hikers. It offers both dormitory and private room options, plus a communal kitchen and easy access to trails.
Moderate: Fisherman’s House	This charming guesthouse combines rustic decor with modern comforts, offering cozy rooms and friendly service. Located near the beach, it’s a great mid-range option for a peaceful stay.

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4. Cavaleiro

Cavaleiro is a smaller village and makes a great stop for those seeking solitude and scenic cliffs. It’s also close to the Cabo Sardão Lighthouse, a highlight of the trail. If you choose to stop for the night in Cavaleiro, be sure to reserve your lodging well in advance, as there is quite a limited supply. Keep in mind that there is a café, a restaurant, and a mini-market, but not too much more in terms of supplies or activities.

Best Places to Stay Fisherman’s Trail: Cavaleiro

Budget: Cavaleiro Rota Costa Alentejana	1 bedroom apartment in town, conveniently located on the trail and near the café and market.
Budget: LUZ E SAL by Stay in Alentejo	Rooms in a 4 bedroom house with 2 shared baths. Guests have access to fully equipped kitchen, outdoor pool, garden, and BBQ.
Moderate: Casa da Courela	Impeccable, clean bed & breakfast perfectly located on the trail. Includes outdoor pool, garden, and terrace, excellent breakfast, and wonderful hosts.

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5. Zambujeira do Mar

Zambujeira do Mar is one of the most popular stops on the trail, with stunning ocean views and a vibrant, lively atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to recharge and explore the rugged coastline. Top things to do in Zambujeira do Mar include:

• Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Mar,
• Praia de Zambujeira do Mar (beach),
• Festa do Sudoeste (international music festival in August),
• Surfing.

Best Places to Stay Fisherman’s Trail: Zambujeira do Mar

Budget: Hostel Nature	An eco-friendly hostel focused on sustainability, Hostel Nature offers both dormitories and private rooms, making it ideal for budget travelers. The relaxed vibe and shared kitchen create a community-oriented space in the center of town.
Moderate: Breathe Inn	Breathe Inn provides comfortable, stylish rooms with personal touches. With its coastal-inspired decor and central location, it’s a great mid-range choice for those wanting a balance of comfort and affordability.
Higher end: Alojamento White Rose Boutique	This boutique guesthouse offers beautifully designed rooms and a serene environment, perfect for travelers looking for a luxurious touch. Located just a short walk from the beach, it provides an ideal base for relaxation.
Camping Villa Park Zambujeira do Mar	Located about 1 km from town (and from the trail), this property features camping as well as studios with kitchenettes, an outdoor pool and a garden.

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6. Odeceixe

Odeceixe is a beautiful finishing point for this section of the Fisherman’s Trail. Known for its charming whitewashed village and stunning Praia de Odeceixe beach, it’s an idyllic location to end the hike. One important thing to keep in mind is that the town and beach are separated by about 3 km. There are restaurants and bars in both locations, but check your lodging to confirm which area of town you are staying in. Top things to do in Odeceixe:

• Surfing,
• Tour the inside of the windmill (free during open hours),
• Igreja Matriz de Odeceixe (church),
• Praia de Odeceixe (beach),
• Adega-Museu (wine museum, free during open hours).

Best Places to Stay Fisherman’s Trail: Odeceixe

Budget: Hostel Seixe	Located in town, Hostel Seixe offers affordable private and shared rooms with a friendly vibe. It’s an ideal option for budget-conscious hikers seeking proximity to local eateries and cafes.
Moderate: SulSeixe Guesthouse	This charming guesthouse offers well-decorated rooms and apartments with unique touches and excellent hospitality. It’s located right next door to the church, and midway up the hill, making it an ideal choice for those wanting a comfortable, mid-range stay with a terrace (or shared terrace).
Moderate+: Casas do Moinho – Turismo de Aldeia	These traditional village cottages near the windmill offer cozy, well-furnished rooms with a homey feel. Guests enjoy a peaceful environment, beautiful views, and the option to self-cater.
Moderate+: stressfree charm house	Set in the heart of Odeceixe, stressfree charm house offers clean and renovated rooms, some with terrace overlooking the quaint streets of Odeceixe.
Parque de Campismo Sao Miguel	Camping spots and bungalows are located about 2.2 km from Odeceixe (away from the trail and the ocean). Guests have access to 2 tennis courts and 2 outdoor pools.

Best Places to Stay on the Fisherman’s Trail Wrap-Up

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This selection of accommodations from Porto Covo to Odeceixe ensures hikers have comfortable, scenic, and convenient options along the trail. Whether you’re seeking budget-friendly hostels, cozy mid-range guesthouses, or upscale retreats, each town offers its own style and appeal, enhancing the incredible trek along Portugal’s coast.

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