On this Fishermen's Trail stage from Vila do Bispo to Sagres you walk around the south-western tip of Europe. From the village of Vila do Bispo the trail heads for the cliffs, follows the coast south to Cabo de São Vicente and then turns east to Sagres. Wide views, a lot of sky, and very little shade.
Before you set off
Buy water and something to eat in Vila do Bispo. There are food stands at the cape in summer, but outside the season we wouldn't count on them. Take sunscreen even if the wind makes it feel cool.
Route
You first walk towards the cliffs. A short detour from the trail takes you up to the Torre de Aspa viewpoint. The path then stays close to the cliff edge: dirt tracks, rocky stretches and a passage of loose sand that is hard going – one walking report puts it at around 500 metres, depending on the track you follow. At Cabo de São Vicente you pass the lighthouse and the fortress. From there the trail turns east, past the Fortaleza do Beliche above Praia do Beliche, to Sagres.
Don't miss the turn-off: after Praia do Beliche, look out for the path that leads you back from the road to the cliffs. If you stay on the road, you miss some of the best views of the day.
Time and wind
The official walking time is about seven hours. Allow for it: with stops at the viewpoints, or a walk down to one of the beaches, you will easily need the whole day. Don't underestimate the wind on this exposed coast – it can slow you down considerably.
The Rota Vicentina recommends walking the Fishermen's Trail between September and June.
In storms, heavy rain or bad trail conditions, postpone the walk. Check the Rota Vicentina warning map and the weather warnings before you set off.
Getting back or moving on
Sagres is the end of this stage and the start of the next one to Salema. To get back to Vila do Bispo, you can take an Uber – it operates in this area.
Eating in Sagres
For grilled fish at the end of the day: A Sereia, right above the fish auction at Baleeira harbour, or Retiro do Pescador. More in our restaurant tips.