5 of the Algarve's best hiking festivals for all seasons
The Algarve, Portugal's sun-drenched southernmost region, is renowned across Europe for its stunning coastline.
Step beyond its golden beaches, however, and the Algarve* offers charming villages, spectacular nature, artistic communities, and rich cultural heritage, all of which can best be experienced through the Algarve's annual hiking festivals.
With something for walkers of all levels, whether traversing historical paths, engaging with local creatives or immersing yourself in the region's traditions, the Algarve's hiking festivals provide unforgettable adventures.
Take a look at our five favourite hiking festivals in the Algarve, each offering a distinct theme through a specific lens.
Getting to the Algarve: find great value breaks to the Algarve with Jet2holidays*, which offers breaks across the region.
Santa Bárbara de Nexe Walking Festival
- When: 7 to 9 February 2025
In the heart of the Algarve lies the inland village of Santa Bárbara de Nexe, which will host its inaugural walking festival in early February 2025.
This much-anticipated event celebrates the rural beauty and cultural heritage of the Algarve's Barrocal region, offering participants guided walks through historical trails that weave past ancient churches, windmills and local artisans' workshops.
The festival aims to immerse walkers in the authentic Algarvian lifestyle, with opportunities to sample regional delicacies and enjoy traditional poetry and Fado music performances en route.
Top tips
February in the Algarve is mild, with daytime temperatures rising to highs of around 15°C or 16°C. While generally pleasant, it's advisable to wear layers to accommodate cooler mornings and evenings.
Early spring brings blooming almond trees and a variety of wildflowers. Birdwatchers may spot species such as the azure-winged magpie and the Sardinian warbler.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum daytime temperature °C | ||||||||||||
| Hours of sunshine (daily) | ||||||||||||
| Days with some rainfall | ||||||||||||
| Sea temperature °C |
The above guide shows the climate in Santa Bárbara de Nexe.
Caminheiros - Border Experiences
- When: 7 to 9 March 2025
Taking place between the picturesque town of Alcoutim in Portugal* and Sanlúcar de Guadiana in Spain, the Caminheiros festival explores the unique relationship between the communities along the Guadiana River, which forms the natural border between the two countries.
Participants can enjoy cross-border hikes that highlight the shared history, traditions, natural beauty and gastronomic heritage of the region, including visits to ancient castles and local markets.
Through a wide range of activities, from hikes along historic trails and stunning landscapes to themed routes that explore astronomy, botany and ancient history, the festival fosters a sense of unity and cultural exchange, with something for all interests and fitness levels.
In addition to the walks, the festival offers complementary experiences such as boat trips, workshops on ancestral practices and tastings of local dishes.
Top tips
March sees daytime temperatures rising to the high teens (°C). It's a comfortable time for hiking, but occasional showers are possible, so packing a light raincoat is recommended.
The riverbanks are lush with greenery and you might well encounter otters, kingfishers, and a variety of freshwater fish.
Walking Festival Ameixial
- When: 25 to 28 April 2025
The Walking Festival Ameixial is one of the Algarve's most storied hiking events. Held for the first time in 2013, it returns this year in late April.
Set in the quiet village of Ameixial, in the municipality of Loulé, this festival is inspired by the ancient 'Escrita do Sudoeste', or 'Southwest Script', which is one of the earliest forms of writing in the Iberian Peninsula, and an important element of the Serra region's heritage.
Trails lead participants through rolling hills and verdant valleys, with informative sessions on the region's archaeological, ethnographic and architectural significance, and themed walks related to local history, such as the Southwest Writing Walk.
Evening events include local gastronomy tastings and folk music, providing a holistic cultural experience.
Top tips
By late April, daytime temperatures normally reach into the low twenties (°C) during the day. Days are typically sunny, but it's wise to carry sun protection and stay hydrated.
This period is ideal for witnessing a vibrant display of wildflowers, including orchids and lavender. The area is also home to butterflies and various bird species.
Barão de São João Walk & Art Fest
- When: 7 to 9 November 2025
In the artistic village of Barão de São João, this festival combines hiking with art. Accessible to hikers of various fitness levels, there are 25 pieces of art, created by 17 local artists, waiting to be discovered on the 1.5 km walking route around the village and the nearby forest. Installations are hidden around every corner, creating an open-air gallery amid nature.
Meanwhile, there are no fewer than 48 hiking trails to experience, 14 activities for children to enjoy and 22 arts and crafts workshops and interactive sessions that let you engage with the creative community. The Walk & Art Fest is truly a festival to stimulate both body and mind.
Top tips
In early November, daytime temperatures will typically rise into the low twenties (°C). While generally mild, early mornings and evenings can be cooler, so layering is advisable.
Late autumn brings a different palette, with the landscape showcasing hues of gold and red. Mushroom foraging is popular, and the forests are alive with the sounds of migratory birds.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum daytime temperature °C | ||||||||||||
| Hours of sunshine (daily) | ||||||||||||
| Days with some rainfall | ||||||||||||
| Sea temperature °C |
The above guide shows the climate in Praia de Luz.
Monchique Walking Festival
- When: 29 November to 1 December 2025
Set in the mountainous region of Monchique, this festival is dedicated to the theme of water, featuring various walks and activities that emphasise the importance and preservation of this natural resource.
Trails guide hikers through lush forests, past streams and natural springs, and up to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Algarve coastline.
The festival also includes family and children's activities, creative workshops, theatrical performances, stargazing sessions, and wellness sessions such as yoga classes and visits to the local thermal spa, capitalising on Monchique's reputation for its healing waters.
Top tips
Late November sees slightly cooler temperatures, typically only reaching the mid-to-high teens (°C) during the day in these mountainous parts. While the days can be crisp, they are perfect for hiking. However, the region is known for its microclimate, so be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
The Monchique mountains are rich in biodiversity, with chestnut and cork oak forests. Wild boar and deer inhabit the area, and birdwatchers may spot eagles and owls.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum daytime temperature °C | ||||||||||||
| Hours of sunshine (daily) | ||||||||||||
| Days with some rainfall |
The above guide shows the climate in Monchique.
Find out more about conditions in our complete guide to the climate in the Algarve.
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