The Algarve is a walkers paradise. This Southern part of Portugal may be best known for its exclusive golf resorts and fabulous beaches, but there is a lot more to be discovered just a short distance from the main resorts.

The Algarve´s climate makes walking a pleasure at least nine months of the year. In the springtime, the countryside is covered by brightly coloured flowers. Summer adds the butterflies and an abundance of wildlife. In autumn there is new growth and giving the sense of a second spring.

There is a wide variety of walks from coastal foot paths to rugged mountains, orange valleys to quaint traditional towns. One of the most stunning parts of the Algarve, Monchique and its surrounding regions are a delight to explore. Walking allows you the opportunity to explore the landscape which has been untouched by development.

Few visitors are aware of the variety of wildlife on the Algarve. From flamingos to eagles, from ancient olive trees to wild orchids, from geckos to wild boar, the Algarve has an abundance of wildlife. The flora and fauna of the South coast changes season by season. Cork oak, olives, pines, eucalyptus and tree heathers and cultivated orange and lemon groves and almond trees give a colourful display and smell. There are gum cistus, wild jasmine, rock roses and oleanders.. There is also a lot to see for birders, including cranes and flamingos.

Local guide books and good walking guides can help you find the best routes around the area, and can also suggest walking guides who can arrange a walking tour with other like minded explorers. By using local guides and visiting rural restaurants and shops selling local products also helps put money into the local economy, and walking is an environmentally friendly and healthy way to explore the beautiful Algarve.

All you need at the end of a tiring day walking is some good food and a comfortable villa to relax in.