Issue #7: Portugal’s Wild Coast: An Offbeat LGBTQ+ Escape

WHAT YOU’LL FIND IN THIS ISSUE:

• How to plan a rugged escape in southern Portugal

• Queer-friendly towns and off-grid beaches to explore

• Where to hike, swim, and stay away from tourist traps

• Gear tips for first-time adventurers

• A sample 3-day itinerary for small group travel

🏳️‍🌈 Where to Base Yourself — and Why It Matters

While Lisbon and Porto have their queer scenes, the wild coast is about something else entirely — space, nature, and low-key acceptance.

Two ideal base towns:

• Aljezur — A hilltop town with surf energy and chill cafés. You’ll find digital nomads, LGBTQ+ backpackers, and laid-back locals who’ve seen it all.

• Carrapateira — Even smaller, closer to the coast, and perfect if you want to feel away from everything without being isolated.

Why these spots work:
They’re safe, welcoming, and not packed with resort crowds. Most queer travellers report feeling relaxed, invisible (in the best way), and able to just exist — no awkward stares.

Walk the Rota Vicentina

The Rota Vicentina is one of Europe’s best-kept hiking secrets. A 750km network of trails that runs through the Alentejo and Algarve regions, hugging the coastline and rolling through eucalyptus hills, fishing villages, and remote cliff paths.

You can hike day sections without carrying gear — or plan a multi-day hut-to-hut adventure if you're up for it.

Recommended section:
Arrifana to Monte Clérigo — dramatic cliffs, tidal pools, and views that will make your phone run out of memory.

Rota Vicentina Official Site

Swim (and Surf) in Secluded Spots

The water’s wild here — expect chilly waves and strong tides — but it’s worth it.

• Praia da Amoreira — good for swimming + nearby café

• Praia do Amado — surf schools, sandy stretch, LGBTQ+ friendly vibes

• Praia do Canal — harder to reach, but worth it for solitude and sunsets

Want to surf? There are several schools in Aljezur and Bordeira that offer short beginner lessons. Don’t be surprised if your instructor is queer, tattooed, and barefoot before you are.

How to Travel It: Van, Car, or Basecamp

You’ve got options depending on your comfort level:

• Basecamp option: Stay in Aljezur and day-trip to beaches and trails

• Rental car freedom: Best way to explore remote coves and villages

• Vanlife: If you’re into it, this region is van-life heaven — wild camping is common (but do check local rules)

No matter how you travel, pack snacks, layers, and your own toilet paper. The wilder the beach, the fewer the amenities.

Why It’s Great for Small Groups

You don’t need a full crew — but 2–4 people is the sweet spot here.

You can:

• Split a rental

• Cook group meals with groceries from the local market

• Do your own thing during the day, then gather at night for sunset, dinner, and stories

This kind of trip bonds people — especially when the wind messes up your tent or you all forget the lighter.

The point is presence. Not productivity.

3-Day Portugal Wild Coast Itinerary

Day 1:

• Arrive in Aljezur

• Settle in + explore the local cafés

• Sunset at Praia da Amoreira

• Dinner at a low-key seafood spot

Day 2:

• Morning hike on Rota Vicentina

• Picnic lunch on the cliffs

• Afternoon surf lesson or nap

• Wine and fire circle back at your accommodation

Day 3:

• Lazy morning with coffee

• Explore Carrapateira + quick swim

• One last lookout stop before heading back