8-day road trip through Portugal
Discover the rugged coastline and spot dolphins
Drive through vineyards and picturesque villages
GO ON AN ADVENTURE AND DISCOVER PORTUGAL
In this magazine, we explain in detail what Portugal Nomads stands for You'll find lots of important information, such as: the packing list with everything you need for your adventure; our various options and activities, the daily schedule, etc. We invite you to take your time to read the magazine in its entirety Through our website (portugalnomads eu), you can learn all about availabilities and prices for the next season You can also sign up right away!
Portugal is our new Nomads destination, where you can hike along cliffs and discover picturesque villages. You'll stay at unique campsites and you can take surf lessons with the optional surf package We've selected the most beautiful sights, campsites, and routes for an unforgettable adventure in your minivan. Enjoy reading! If you have any questions, don't forget that you can always contact us via email or phone
See you soon,
The Portugal Nomads team
portugal nomads
portugal nomads in brief
Do you want to hike along cliffs, sail on azure-blue waters, learn to surf, and spend your nights in unique spots? Then Portugal Nomads is the perfect adventure for you!
Let our roadbook guide you on an 8-day exploration of Portugal's diverse south Along the way, you'll drive scenic coastal routes and experience the laid-back 'surf vibe'.
In your minivan, you'll travel the most beautiful roads, and each evening you can unwind at a campsite in nature or by the coast, where we've already reserved a spot for you
Did you know?
Ericeira is Europe's only surf reserve? The village is known for its world-class surf spots and has even been awarded the prestigious status of World Surfing Reserve With more than 7 kilometers of coastline and waves for every level, Ericeira attracts surfers from all over the world. It's a place where surfers and ocean lovers come together to enjoy the wild Atlantic waters
HIGHLIGHTS
ericeira
The moment you set foot in Ericeira, you feel instantly that this is the place where the heart of Portuguese surf culture beats In the picturesque streets, where ivy climbs up white walls, you'll discover authentic restaurants and cozy terraces The bohemian vibe makes it a place where everyone feels welcome - whether you're here for the waves, the local cuisine, or to taste the real Portugal
lagos
The town of Lagos combines history with stunning nature. The azure-blue sea around Ponta da Piedade and dolphins playing along the coast make this a paradise for nature lovers The charming streets buzz with restaurants and bars where locals and visitors come together We definitely recommend exploring both the nature and the city
sesimbra
Explore the Arrábida Natural Park near Sesimbra
Here you'll find breathtaking cliffs, turquoise waters, and untouched nature Kayak along the coast to discover hidden beaches and impressive caves, or hike to the highest peak of Serra da Arrábida for a magnificent view. A must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers!
fornalhas novas
At Fornalhal Novas, you'll spend the night in a truly authentic spot: a vineyard Choose your own spot to park your minivan among the grape vines and enjoy the view Want to taste the wine they produce here? Learn more about the local process during a wine tasting and sample three or five wines paired with a local Portuguese tapas board.
carvoeiro
Near Carvoeiro, you'll find the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. This hiking route winds 6 kilometers along the most beautiful stretches of the Algarve coast The path leads you past steep cliffs and hidden beaches, with the highlight being the view of the famous Benagil Cave A beautiful hike to experience the rugged coastal nature of Southern Portugal
arrifana
Arrifana is an idyllic spot for surfers with waves for every level Even if you're not into surfing, this village is worth a visit It's an important stop along the historic Fisherman's Trail This ancient fishing route, now part of the Rota Vicentina, takes you along age-old paths on the cliffs where fishermen once searched for their best fishing spots
What is included?
The base price for this trip is €549 (excluding flights) per person This price is calculated based on 2 people per vehicle. The base price includes the following:
A fully equipped minivan with solar panel
7 nights at unique campsites or camping spots
Return transfer from and to the airport (LIS)
A comprehensive roadbook with the complete route, explanation of all sights, and useful tips & tricks
Access to a navigation system with the complete route
Sleeping equipment: a double mattress, duvets, bedding, and pillows
Camping equipment: a camping table with two chairs, 12-volt cooler, and a water jerry can
Cooking equipment: camping stove, pans, plates, cutlery, and cups
Support before and during your trip in case of problems
Additionally, you'll receive several personal emails with more information about your trip! This includes a packing list, a stage sheet, etc. You can already find the packing list in this magazine!
The activity options
Kayaking
Kayak across the azure-blue waters at Sesimbra and view the impressive coastline from a different perspective. This kayak discovery tour lasts 3 hours and takes you past beautiful beaches, through caves, and along high cliffs A local guide ensures the ultimate experience - a unique way to discover Sesimbra!
SESIMBRA
boat tour: cliffs & spotting dolphins
Sail along impressive cliffs and spot dolphins in Lagos! Step aboard and cruise by boat along the Lagos coastline. The 3-hour tour departs from Marina de Lagos and takes you out onto the Atlantic Ocean There, you'll try to spot wild dolphins in their natural habitat and sail past cliffs and caves
wine tasting
During your road trip, you'll sleep in the middle of a vineyard, surrounded by grape vines. Treat your senses to a wine tasting, where the passionate owner tells you all about the local wine production After the tour, it's time for the best moment: the tasting! Enjoy five wines accompanied by a platter full of delicious Portuguese tapas.
LAGOS
the surfing options
surf package a: free surfing
Already have some surfing experience? Then rent a board and wetsuit for the entire duration of your road trip This way, you can dive into the water at any time and discover Portugal's best surf spots. We'll give you extensive tips in our roadbook about where to surf best
With surf package A, you rent a wetsuit and a board for the entire duration
surf package b: Free surfing + surf lessons
Want to learn how to surf or improve your skills?
Then choose the package with two surf lessons The lessons are suitable for all levels and last between 1.5 and 2 hours.
With surf package B, you'll get a wetsuit and surfboard on loan for the entire trip so you can catch a wave along the way On top of that, two surf lessons will be given in Ericeira and Arrifana
thE EXTRA OPTions
Car insurance
You can never be too well insured! Driving abroad means taking unknown roads, adapting to unfamiliar traffic rules and therefore, taking risks For your own safety and to avoid any danger, we offer insurance for the car. With this, you're fully insured against damage to the car. This way, you can travel with peace of mind!
Travel assistence insurance
Want to travel without worrying? Then this insurance is for you Travel insurance covers all costs in case of illness or a medical emergency
Cancellation insurance
Unfortunately can't join anymore? With cancellation insurance, you can cancel your trip under certain conditions You can find the exact terms of this insurance on our website
The map
Food and drinks
During your road trip, you have two culinary options. In your minivan, you'll find supplies to cook. If you're up for experimenting with local ingredients, you can pick up groceries at various places along the way The supermarkets we recommend can be found in the app Would you like to get to know the local cuisine? In the roadbook, you'll find all sorts of cute restaurants where you can taste traditional dishes.
Your accommodations
You'll spend each night in a different spot, alternating between campsites and camper places Most of the overnight locations are close to the beach, so you can surf or start or end your day with a hike along the coast. All campsites have sanitary facilities, and we have already reserved a spot for you, so you won’t need to worry about it upon arrival.
Pack list
In spring, you'll enjoy sunny weather in southern Portugal Temperatures average between 20 and 28°C, with cool evenings and little chance of rain. Perfect for road trips, while the summer crowds are still yet to come
Basics
ID-card or valid passport
debit (or Credit) card
driver’s license
phone + charger + phone holder
car charger
drinking bottle
DAy backpack
Clothing
hiking shoes
flip flops
summer clothes
warm hoodie
PYJAMAs
swimming suit
underwear
sunglasses + hat
Camping material
dish soap
garbage bags
flashlight
Powerbank camera
BOok / game
music speaker
binoculars
Body care
toiletries
first aid-KIT/ medicines
mosquito spray
sun cream + after sun
quick drying towel
directions
Each day, you'll be offered a route with multiple stops to choose from. You're free to decide what you'd like to do most and which route to take. The indicated time is the driving time without taking into account how long you spend at each attraction Our activities are aligned with our route, so you can create your own schedule depending on your preferences. In total, you'll cover approximately 800 km, with an average of 130 km per day
Driving in Portugal is beautiful We recommend discovering both the coastal routes and the inland routes. You'll find more information about this in our comprehensive roadbook. In it, we also describe all the optional activities and attractions that lie along the route. We are convinced that this round trip is a unique way to explore southern Portugal and the Algarve
PORTUGAL NOMADS
Day 1: home - Ericeira
On the first day of the road trip you will be expected at Lisbon Airport (LIS) (check your start date for the start time) From here you will be transferred to our rental partner near Ericeira After a detailed briefing on the use of the minivan and everything that comes with it, you can start your road trip. You are ready to discover the first town: Ericeira The campsite is located half an hour drive between Ericeira and Sintra
Day 3: arrifana - salema
The next morning, you have the option to participate in a surf lesson. Not a fan of surfing? No problem! Near Arrifana lies one of the most beautiful sections of the Fisherman's Trail, a trail located along Portugal's coastline The hike from Pontal da Carrapateira to Praia de Amado and back takes you past breathtaking views After an active day, you'll drive in about an hour from Arrifana to the charming coastal village of Salema, where you'll stay at an idyllic eco camp.
Day 2: ericeira - Arrifana
Start the morning with a picturesque walk from Matadouro to Praia de Ribeira d'Ilhas along the cliffs, a journey of about 1 5 hours, or explore vibrant Ericeira On the route to your next stop, you'll encounter several charming villages, such as Sines or Milfontes. Your next stop is Arrifana, where you'll stay at a campsite near nice restaurants Discover the surroundings or head to the beach to enjoy the sunset
Day 4: Salema- Lagos or Carvoeiro
Start your day with a true bucket-list activity: a boat trip from Lagos First, you'll head out to the open sea, searching for dolphins in their natural environment Then, you'll view the magical cliffs and caves of Lagos from the water, a special experience! You can then drive on to Carvoeiro, so you'll spend the night near the start of the next day's hike. Or stay overnight in Lagos, so you can spend the evening in what we consider one of the nicest towns in Portugal
Day 5: Lagos or CarvoeiroFornalhas Novas
Today, one of Europe's possibly most beautiful hikes is on the schedule: the Seven Hanging Valley Trail A 6-kilometer walk along the coastline with the most impressive cliffs After an active morning, you'll drive on to Fornalhas Novas, a region known for its extensive vineyards Here you'll spend the night among the grape vines at a vineyard, and you can participate in a wine tasting at the winery where you're staying!
Day 6: Fornalhas NovasSesimbra
After a night under the clear starry sky in the middle of the vineyard, you'll continue your road trip to Sesimbra, a picturesque spot located at the Arrábida Natural Park Here you'll stay at a nature campsite You can explore the beautiful natural park, visit one of the many small beaches, or discover the charming village
Day 8: Ericeira - home
Start the day with a kayak trip along caves, high cliffs, and beautiful beaches, a unique way to explore Sesimbra! After the trip, it's time to return to your journey's starting point, Ericeira Here you can enjoy your last evening at the campsite and further discover the charming village, a perfect end to your road trip.
Day 8 is the end of the Algarve adventure, time to return home You return the minivan near Ericeira and our partners will take you with a transfer to Lisbon Airport (LIS)
Day 7: Sesimbra - Ericeira
our support for your trip
Before your trip, you'll receive all kinds of information via email This way, you can prepare optimally
When you're on location, we're available to answer any questions or help in case of problems. Before departure, you'll also receive a link to join a WhatsApp group, which you can use for this purpose If there are any last-minute changes, they will also appear in the group
We also have an application where you can find both the route and practical information. You'll receive the link to the app via email before your trip This way, you can already discover a bit of what's in store for you
Want to hear the opinions of other travelers from previous editions, read their stories, or admire their beautiful photos? Then join our 'Travelbase Nomads: the roadtrippers' group on Facebook Don't hesitate to ask questions - other Nomads are happy to answer them! If you'd like to learn even more, take a look at our Instagram and Facebook pages Updates about our road trips appear regularly.
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