Historical Way / Caminho Histórico / GR11, 230 km, 12 sections

Santiago do Cacém - Cabo de São Vicente (North – South)

If you are in for a rural experience in a far corner of Europe, the Historical Way is a good choice for you. First of all: this trail has received the  “Leading Quality Trail” certification from the European Ramblers Association. The trail is part of the European Path E7

The stages between the villages are around 12 to 24 km long. In between are cork oak forests, fields, Eucalyptus plantations, hills, valleys. The Atlantic is never far, and western winds will push down the temperatures. Summer is not recommended, though. Autumn, winter and spring are better. If you are not so lucky, you may end up in bad weather, which can be really bad. Take precautions, carry rainproofs.

From Cercaldo Alenejo there is a connection to the start of the Fishermen’s Trail in Porto Covo. From this point onwards, the Fishermen’s Trail shares much of the itinerary of the Historical Trail but diverts to the coastline in many places. This will of course add up to your mileage.

The trail is easy. In the villages you will find small hotels or private accommodation. And there are plenty of good bars and little restaurants where you can enjoy small cups of coffee or the exquisite vino verde that nowhere tastes better than here.