The Luz to Burgau hike offers one of the Algarve’s most accessible yet spectacular coastal walks, forming a stunning 5.5-kilometer section of the renowned Fisherman’s Trail. This relatively easy trail connects two charming fishing villages while delivering breathtaking clifftop views, dramatic rock formations, and pristine beaches that showcase the very best of Portugal’s southwestern coastline.

The Route and Experience
Starting from Praia da Luz, the trail heads westward along well-marked coastal paths that form part of the 226-kilometer Fisherman’s Trail network. The route is fairly flat with one manageable hill halfway along, whose summit provides panoramic views both east and west. The path splits into two options past the luxury villas – the clifftop route offers superior viewing of various bays along the coast, though caution is required near unstable cliff edges.

This section represents the second half of the popular Salema to Praia da Luz trail, though many hikers prefer walking it in reverse from Luz to Burgau. The scenery features beautiful coastal views, but the trail passes numerous villas, houses, and apart-hotels along much of the route, making it a bit more developed than the wilder Salema to Burgau section.

The destination village of Burgau rewards hikers with narrow cobbled streets, traditional whitewashed houses, a beautiful beach, and numerous restaurants and cafés – making it an ideal lunch stop or turnaround point. The village also features ruins of an old coastal battery, adding historical interest to the natural beauty.

Practical Details

Distance: 5.5 kilometers (3 miles)
Duration: 1.5-2 hours one way
Difficulty: Easy with one moderate hill
Trail Type: Part of the Fisherman’s Trail (Rota Vicentina network)

Essential Items: Walking stick recommended, water bottle, sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable hiking shoes. The trail offers limited shade, making sun protection crucial.

Flexible Options: The route works perfectly as a partial hike – walk to the hilltop viewpoint and return, or drive to Burgau and hike partway back. Regular buses connect Luz and Burgau for those without vehicles.

Best Times: Year-round accessibility, though spring and autumn provide most comfortable conditions. The trail can become challenging in very hot or windy weather.

Location