Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 283 996 632;
www.casaamarelamilfontes.com
;
Rua Dom Luis Castro e Almeida; dm/d/tr/q €20/60/80/92.50;
)
This privately run, cheery yellow place is set with eclectic knick-knacks belonging to
the genial English -speaking owner, Rui. You'll find bright rooms, a lounge space and
shared (if slightly messy) kitchens. The annexe nearby was being renovated at the time of
research - expect attractive dorm rooms, a courtyard and kitchen.
Hotel Casa dos Arcos
( fax 283 996 264; Rua do Cais; d/tr €70/85; )
Jauntily painted in blue and white, this airy and
spotless (if dated) guesthouse has comfortable beds, tiled floors and small balconies.
GUESTHOUSE
€€
ROTA VICENTINA WALKING TRAIL
The recently opened Rota Vicentina comprises two walking trails - one coastal and one inland - and runs along
the southwest coast between Santigao do Cacém and Cabo de São Vincente. The coastal walk is beautiful. It uses
paths forged by beach goers and fishingfolk and passes through some of the harsher, yet stunning, coastal scenery
and wilderness. The inland route (dubbed the 'historical way') is also fascinating. It runs through the Parque Nat-
ural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina, plus rural towns and villages, cork tree forests and valleys.
Both trails are comprised of sections (together totalling about 350km). While promoted as being 'complete', at
the time of research walkers stated that this was not the case, with some sections not functioning as well they
might. Private companies have cottoned onto the route, but there's nothing to stop you from doing it alone if
you're prepared to carry your things. Numerous accommodation options are along both routes. For further in-
formation see
www.rotavicentina.com
.
Eating
Porto das Barcas€
( 283 997 160; Estrada do Canal; mains €6-14; lunch & dinner Thu-Sun winter, daily summer)
With a
wonderful outlook over the water and cliffs, this is a great place to kick back for a seafood
lunch. Its light and airy ambience in a dreamy location are winners whatever your impres-
sion of the cuisine (which locals love). It's 2.5km north of town along the canal road.
Tasca do Celso
( 283 996 753;
www.tascadocelso.com
; Rua dos Aviadores; mains €13.50-26; lunch & dinner Tue-Sun)
The
choice. Locals and travellers from far and wide rave about the excellent cuisine produced
within the kitchen of this charming, 'upmarket rustic' blue-and-white building. You're
safe trying anything here. It's got great service, open fires and an appealing bar area, too.
PORTUGUESE
€€
