Rota Vicentina vs the Azores: Where to go for hiking
Portugal is home to some of Europe’s most spectacular hikes. Yet, choosing between its famous coastline and the volcanic archipelago of the Azores can be a little bit tricky. They’re both incredible, but the Azores can take a longer to get to. Is it worth it, and are there any major differences between them?
Coastal drama on Portugal’s Southwest
The Rota Vicentina hiking trails are famous, yet far from overcrowded. The network of trails goes all through the Vicentine Coast Natural Park – you can expect tall, epic cliffs along with world-class beaches and traditional fishing villages. The epitome of mainland hiking is the Fisherman’s Trail. And although the full trail is 230 kilometers, Orbis Ways has a special segment of it stretching 89km, meaning it can be completed in a week. These were the ancient paths used by local fishermen (and still are).
Walking the Fisherman’s Trail feels like stepping back in time. The route is dedicated to hugging the coastline, all the way from Santiago do Cacém to Cabo de São Vicente. This means it’s just endless sunset, ocean views and there’s always an improvised opportunity to head down to secluded beaches – most of which are untouched by mass tourism. Hikers will see stork nests on top of rocky outcrops, along with wild dolphins playing in the sea. Whales are a possible sighting, too.
The inland Historical Way is a great alternative for those looking for cultural immersion, as they pass through more medieval villages and rolling countryside. Both routes can be tackled in sections.
Volcanic wonders in the middle of the Atlantic
Just the idea of the Azores is special – the archipelago sits extremely remotely in the middle of the Atlantic. It’s a very different experience, with the nine islands having some otherworldly volcanic views that are a bit more like hiking on an alien planet than in Europe. São Miguel Island is the largest in the chain and has some of the best hiking trails, particularly with its twin crater lakes at Sete Cidades – both blue and green waters create a surreal picture.
The hiking here is pretty much dominated by volcanic features: steaming fumaroles, crater lakes, natural hot springs, subtropical laurel forests… The trail around Lagoa do Fogo has panoramic views of this crater lake, while the challenging hike to Pico da Vara, São Miguel’s highest peak, will reward you with a view across the entire island.
Comparing terrain and difficulty
The Rota Vicentina is generally more gentle in its terrain and has well-marked paths suitable for pretty much anyone. The coastal route is mostly flat, though some sections involve sandy walking. Weather is generally predictable, with the best conditions from April through October.
Azorean hiking has some more technical hiking. Sudden weather changes are common due to the location, and some trails require proper hiking experience and equipment. However, there are still some beginner-friendly hikes that exist.
Making your choice
Choose the Rota Vicentina if you want a consistent, coastal beauty that gets you mindfully walking at a measured pace, Choose this too if you want cultural immersion and reliable weather. The Azores though is suited more to adventurers looking for volcanic landscapes and larger ascents. The latter is great for those interested in unique geological features or plants that cannot be found across mainland Europe.
