Day 1: Almograve – Zambujeira do Mar

Here we go!! It begins! I wake up before dawn and, unable to fall back asleep, I decide to head out and enjoy the first rays of sunlight, which never disappoint. I go back inside, start getting ready, and have a hearty breakfast. It’s really important, especially on long stages like those on a walking journey, to start the day with a varied and substantial breakfast that provides energy for the first part of the day.

Today, 23 km await me, mostly along the coast! I organize my backpack, take out my camera, and I’m ready. I say goodbye to my roommates, and off I go!

I savor the first moments in Almograve, warmed by the early morning sun. I immediately stop at a minimarket and stock up on fruit, which will prove to be a very important source of energy along the way.

I realize that the route is extremely well marked, so I quickly abandon the idea of using the GPS in order to enjoy the adventure even more. The first stretch passes through tall foliage and suddenly brings you face to face with the ocean! What an impact! The long waves, the golden sand of the early morning, and the rocky cliffs rich with Mediterranean vegetation: what a sight! The first kilometers are entirely on trails or dirt roads, almost always overlooking the sea, with breathtaking views that even photos struggle to capture.

Halfway through the stage, I reach Cabo Sardão, where the ocean crashes against the vertical cliffs and storks nest in a magnificent setting. I decide to stop here for lunch. The rest of the route to Zambujeira is enchanting, with the classic sandy paths along the ocean’s edge. Once I finally reach my destination, I notice there’s a chance to go down a set of steps to a paradise-like beach. I reach the beach, leave my backpack, take off my shoes, and make contact with the ocean for the first time! What a feeling of peace and freedom! There couldn’t have been a better way to end this stage. I return to the trail and reach my room for the night. Zambujeira is a seaside town that seems to be in a shy phase of tourist development. I grab a takeaway sandwich and eat it on the cliffs so I don’t miss the sunset over the sea. What a first stage!