road trip

Caminito del rey, road trip in campervan in Malaga province

What to see in the Province of Malaga? The 10 most beautiful places to visit

What to see in the Province of Malaga? The 10 most beautiful places to visit 1080 581 VanBreak - Campervan and MotorHome Hire in Spain

In this article we give you all the information you need about your road trip by camper van or camping car . What to see in Malaga Province? What to visit ? Where to sleep? everything! Prepare your bag and just choose one of our VW campervans or City Car burstner motorhomes for your vacation this year. Traveling on the road in a fully equipped camper van is a unique experience. It gives you the opportunity to visit the province of Malaga with total peace of mind, the Costa del Sol, Malaga capital and the villages of the interior side. You can always be close to nature and change your view every day. Explore beaches, discover natural parks, practice water sports or simply enjoy being outdoors. Our camper vans or camping cars are the perfect way to relax and not to worry about anything after two months of confinement 🚐😋 

 

TRAVEL ITINERARY AND PLACES YOU HAVE TO SEE IN MALAGA:

  1. Nerja, the Coast of Maro & Frigiliana.
  2. The Chorro Lake – The Caminito del Rey Path.
  3. The Natural Park Sierra de las Nieves.
  4. 4. The Torcal of Antequera.
  5. The Cave of the cat (La Cueva del Gato).
  6. The river Chillar.
  7. Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park.
  8. Mijas.
  9. Ronda, new bridge.
  10. Malaga Mountains- Natural Park.

 

1 – NERJA: THE COAST AND THE CAVE

What to see and do in Nerja?

Nerja is one of our favorite coastal towns. We advise you to visit the Balcony of Europe, it is located in the center of the town and it is one of the most touristic attractions of Nerja. It is a viewpoint with impressive views of the Mediterranean Sea. And, of course, you have to visit the Cave of Nerja. This cave is classed as a “Good of Cultural Interest”, it was discovered in 1959. Inside it, you will find the oldest work of art known to man (42000 years old), some of the largest rock formations around, and the numerous amount of speleothems present on the ceiling, floor and walls.

 In Nerja you can enjoy several beaches such as Playa del Salón and Calahonda, located right next to the Balcón de Europa. If you walk along the Playa de Calahonda, you will come to another smaller and more quiet beach, called Playa del Chorillo. If you like to barbecue on the beach, La Playa el Playazo is the only one where barbecue is allowed. With 1800 meters, it is the longest beach of Nerja and the sunsets are simply incredible. You can easily park your camper van and spend the night there.

what to do in the province of Malaga, the Balcon of Europe, Nerja

Nerja and its Balcon de Europa

Cliffs of Maro: Natural spot

Maro is a tropical paradise in the eastern part of Nerja. La Torre de Maro is a good point to put in the GPS as a destination for your trip. It is a wonderful location full of pine forests, many beaches, small secret coves with transparent waters, an incredible color mixed of blue and green. Maro is a perfect place for snorkeling, kayaking, diving and exploring the marine world in general. Some of its most beautiful beaches are: Cantarriján, Playa de las Alberquillas, Cala el Cañuelo.

Where to sleep in Nerja with motorhome or camper van?

The Cliffs of Maro Cerro are also a wonder of nature. On your way between Nerja and Almuñécar you can find small routes where you can park, spend the night, prepare your dinner in front of the sea inside your camper van or camping car and wake up with an exceptional and relaxing view of the sea.

Maro, Nerja, malaga provinces, the most beautiful places

Marro Cliffs

Frigiliana, a beautiful white town

This charming white town of Malaga is located at the Natural Park of the Sierras de Almijara, Tejeda and Alhama, just 7 kilometers from Nerja. Do not miss the historic center of Barribarto, declared as a Historic-Artistic Site in 2014, and the Archaeological Museum. If you are passionate about hiking, you can depart on numerous routes starting from Frigiliana.

What to see in Malaga province ? Beautiful city of frigiliana

Beautiful streets in Frigiliana.

 

2 – EXPLORE THE EXQUISITE LAKE EL CHORRO AND FACE THE ADRELANINE IN EL CAMINITO DEL REY PATH

What to see and what to do in El Chorro?

El chorro is a fascinating natural space, a mountainous place with a huge blue lake: the Guadalhorce Reservoir. The lake belongs to the Natural Park of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes and is located north of Malaga, you need to take the A-357 towards Ronda from Malaga, it is only an hour away. Hiking, kayaking, standing paddle surfing, pedal boats, climbing, paragliding are the activities that you can practice in El Chorro. There are barbecue and picnic areas right next to the lake where you can spend happy moments with family or friends …

Finally, El Chorro is a perfect destination for a camper van or motorhome getaway to spend a full day there without any stress.

El Chorro, lake and nature in the province of Malaga, south of spain

El chorro

Near El Chorro, between the towns of Antequera, Ardales and Álora is El Caminito del Rey. This incredible route is about 8 kilometers long, from the Chorro dam to the Conde de Guadalhorce reservoir. In this wonderful path you can enjoy an impressive natural site, walk trails and walkways over 100 meters high. The entire tour can be done in about 4 hours.

Where to sleep in El Chorro with a camper van or motorhome?

The Caminito del Rey Natural Park has a parking area for motorhomes, but it is not normally allowed to stay overnight. If you are looking for a motorhome service area, we recommend the municipal area of ​​Antequera, which is free and has various services. You can also visit Antequera which has an important cultural heritage and you will surely love it. If you prefer to be in a camping, you have one near the Caminito del Rey, it is located in Ardales, it is the Camping Parque Ardales, which has all kinds of services for motorhomes and camper vans.

Keep in mind that El Caminito del Rey attracts many tourists, therefore reservations have to be made in advance. We advise you to make your reservation on the website (click here).

Caminito del rey, road trip in campervan in Malaga province

Caminito del Rey

 

3 – HIKING IN THE NATURAL PARK OF SIERRA DE LAS NIEVES

What to see and do in the Sierra de las Nieves?

You have a variety of hiking trails in the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park known for its spanish fir forests and its variety of flora. In the park there are also species of protected animals such as the wild cat, the golden eagle and the otter. Some incredible places that belong to the Natural Park are: Guadalevin River, Genal Valley, Sierra Blanca, Reservatauro and some very beautiful villages: El Burgo, Monda, Tolox, Parauta, Yunquera and Ronda.

Where to sleep in the Sierra de las Nieves?

It is a perfect idea for an excursion in a camper van or camping car because you have many options to park and sleep in wonderful places, being very close to the trails to fully enjoy your adventure. Indeed, traveling by road in a camper van is the ideal plan for getaways of this type to start the day early after spending a good night. Wake up surrounded by nature, have breakfast in the same Natural Park, prepare your plans calmly to enjoy the day as much as possible.

what to do in the province of Malaga, la sierra de las nieves

Sierra de las Nieves

 

4 – THE TORCAL, A UNIQUE NATURAL SITE IN SPAIN

What to see and do in the Torcal?

Declared as a World Heritage Site, the Torcal of Antequera is a spectacular natural area of ​​1,171 hectares. This place of  natural rock formations and fossils is a marvellous spot, known for its peculiar forms of rocks, product of natural erosion, on limestone rocks. It was declared as a park of the Natural Reserve in 1989. The Torcal has an enormous wealth of chasms and caves, as well as many underground forms that go back to the Secondary or Mesozoic Era. Different species of animals coexist in its environment, such as the fox, the badger, the weasel, the vole or the rabbit and an impressive variety of plants. It is a perfect idea for a trip with the family.

El torcal, things to do in the province of Malaga

El Torcal

Where to sleep in El Torcal?

You can spend the night near the Torcal park entrance with the camper van or motorhome. A few kilometers away from the visitors center, there is a free parking space with a view of the countryside, a natural and quiet place and maybe you can have a surprise visit from some curious goats J🐐🐑. Don’t forget to stop by Antequera to eat a good traditional fritter.

 

5 – THE CAVE OF THE CAT: NATURAL PARADISE

What to do and see in the Cave of the Cat?

Another place that stands out for its beauty is the Cave of the Cat, located in the Sierra de Grazamela Natural Park. Precisely, it is between the municipalities of Montejaque and Benaoján.

The cave belongs to the Hudidero-Gato speological system, one of the largest in Andalusia with 10 km of underground routes. On hot summer days you can take a refreshing dip in the small lake with crystal clear waters and discover the waterfalls of the Guadiaro River. The lush vegetation creates a feeling as if you are in a small natural paradise, perfect for having a great time and discovering new wonders of Malaga.

La Cueva del Gato, rio chillar malaga province, spain

 

6 – AQUATIC HIKING IN THE CHILLAR RIVER

What to see and do in the Chillar river?

Another refreshing summer excursion that we recommend you is hiking in the Chillar river. An adventure that combines hiking and swimming. It is a suitable  activity for family that runs through the Sierras Tejada, Almija and Ahama Natural Park, at the north of the municipality of Nerja. To park the camper van or motorhome, the best would be to use the free municipal public parking in Calle Mirto in Nerja. You just have to walk along the river and you will quickly find the first waterfalls and small pools. The entire route is about 8 kilometers. We recommend you to wear shoes that can get wet, swimwear and sun protection, and prepare your snacks in the camper van to have a good picnic that you will definetly enjoy a lot in nature.

Rio chillar

Rio Chillar and its wonderful corners

 

7 –  THE BEAUTIFUL VILLAGE OF MIJAS

What to see and do in Mijas?

Mijas is 30 kilometers from Malaga, it is one of the most beautiful white villages of the Costa del Sol. It has a typical Andalusian charm, its white houses, its narrow pedestrian streets and its cozy atmosphere.

The town has 3 different parts: the village of Mijas (Mijas Pueblo), located in the Sierra at an altitude of 430 m, Las Lagunas which is the most modern part and La Cala which is on the coast and offers a variety of beautiful beaches. The donkey-taxi is a unique attraction in the village of Mijas that allows you to explore the narrow alleys of the town.

Mijas, Malaga province, the most beautiful places

Mijas pueblo

It is inconvenient to spend the night in this beautiful town because of its small and narrow streets which makes it difficult to park. You can park at the entrance to the town and walk up to the town. Another option is to go to Benalmádena and take advantage of its proximity to visit the village Benalmádena, which is an authentic beauty, and enjoy the incredible viewpoint of the Buddhist Stupa, The Castle of Colomares and the Butterfly Park of Benalmádena. You can also enjoy the Benalmádena Coast, which stands out for its extensive promenade that reaches the most touristic area: Puerto Marina.

Benalmadena, Malaga, Costa del Sol

Benalmadena

 

8 – EXPLORE THE IMMENSE NATURAL PARK OF THE SIERRA DE GRAZALEMA

What to see and do in the Sierra de Grazamela Natural Park?

Arriving with your camper van or motorhome and getting lost in this impressive natural setting is a true wonder. This Nature Park gives you the chance to practice a wide range of sports for the whole family: nautical activities, adventure, riding bike and especially hiking. In addition to climbing and rappelling, zip lines, bungee jumping, archery, and hot air ballooning and paragliding are possible.

It is located between Malaga and Cádiz and has 13 municipalities, 5 of them belong to the province of Malaga: Benaoján, Montejaque, Cortes de la Frontera, Jimera de Libar and Ronda. The landscape seems aesthetically prepared in the canyon of La Garganta Verde, with great depth and full of chasms and interior caves. The Hundidero-Gato, for example, is the largest cave in the Andalusian territory and has the largest bat population in all of Spain.

Sierra de Grazamela

Sierra de Grazamela

Declared as a Biosphere Reserve in 1977, the Sierra de Grazamela Natural Park is a paradise for hiking lovers with many marked itineraries. Some fascinating places in the Natural Park are: Cueva de la Pilata, Garganta Verde, the Acinipo site. It is another idea of ​​a camper van or motorhome getaway where you have thousands of natural places to spend the night and relax in the heart of nature.

The vegetation of this natural park is made up of a huge forest of holm oaks, cork oaks and gall oaks. There is an area with limited visits, the Pinsapar, due to the scarcity of this tree in our territory. Its high vegetation also provides a fauna composed of forest animals such as deer, and the mountain goat, up to the otters of the Majaceite river. Visits to this park are marked by many itineraries to do on foot, by bicycle or even in the water or from the air, if you want to practice some adventure sports. One of the most representative places is La Cueva de la Pileta in Benaoján, which is recognized for the archaeological sites found here and which make up a natural museum worth admiring.

 

9 – RONDA, THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WHITE VILLAGE TO SEE IN THE PROVINCE OF MALAGA

 What to see and do in Ronda?

Ronda is one of the most beautiful white towns in the province of Malaga, it has a special charm and even more if you travel  with your four-wheel hotel; your rented Vanbreak camper van or camping car. You can stay overnight in the motorhome area in Ronda, which is one kilometer away from the center with a price of 10€ per day with services included. You also have the option of parking your campervan in a parking area 10 minutes away from the historic center and it is free, quiet and has spectacular views.

Ronda, beautiful white village in the province of Malaga, spain

Ronda, beautiful town in the cliffs

The white town is divided by an impressive natural canyon where the Tagus river passes, the spectacular bridge from the 18th century connects the two parts of that medieval city. Some places to see in Ronda: the Alameda del Tajo and its views, the Plaza de Toros, the Arab baths, the Casa del Rey Moro, the walls and the Puerta de Almocábar.

 

10 – THE MOUNTAINS OF MÁLAGA NATURAL PARK: A NICE AND RELAXING SITE

What to see and do in the Natural Park of the Mountains of Malaga?

Finally the Mountains of Malaga, a natural pine park next to the capital of the Costa del Sol. It is definetly a must visit place with spectacular views. For example, the Mirador del Cochino that has a wonderful panoramic view of the green forest, Malaga and the sea shining brightly. A space full of peace and tranquility, perfect for hiking and enjoying a small picnic. The Montes de Malaga are a hiking paradise where if you are lucky you will cross the famous cameleon. Possible routes: Picapedreros, Cerrado, Las Contadoras, Pocopan and Torrijos. Don’t forget to cool off at the Queen’s Fountain on your return to Malaga.

What to see in Malaga Province, Montes de Malaga

Montains de Malaga

Now you have a route for the most beautiful places to see in the province of  Malaga 💖🚐 🔝 If you want to travel further, you can take a look at our travel itineraries in Andalusia or Portugal, departing from Malaga.

Hope to see you soon  🤗

Family adventure

10 reasons for a perfect campervan trip after confinement (COVID-19)

10 reasons for a perfect campervan trip after confinement (COVID-19) 1561 794 VanBreak - Campervan and MotorHome Hire in Spain

1 – TRAVEL SAFELY 

At VanBreak, we are concerned about the safety and well-being of our clients, and even more in the current conditions that surround us with the coronavirus crisis in Spain. Therefore, we have taken a series of security measures to guarantee you a safe road trip in a campervan after confinement and, most of all, to guarantee the cleanliness and disinfection of our camper vans. You can consult them in the following link.

mini motorhome rental in malaga spain

2 – SOCIAL DISTANCE

Being in a van surrounded by the sea, nature, the mountains… you can relax and have the total tranquility and peace of mind for being away from the crowds of people, away from all kinds of viruses.

Social distance

3 – EAT AND DRINK CHEAP IN LUXURY SITES 

Taking into consideration that all the restaurants and bars will take time to return to normality, you can completely enjoy your campervan since you have all the freedom to prepare a good meal in the kitchen inside the campervan and be mesmerized by the exceptional views with some fresh beers in the fresh air outside . Autonomy is total, it is like being in your own little house, but lost in nature.

travel by campervan after confinement : Eat and drink cheap with a nice view

4 – FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT

After several weeks of moving between the living room, the bedroom and the kitchen during the Corona pandemic, it is about time to enjoy freedom and travel throughout Andalusia or perhaps far more than that. Move from East to West with your campervan after confinement, enjoy the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, the natural parks and the mountains and also park wherever you want.

travel by campervan after confinement, depature from Malaga cit

5 – REACH YOUR DESTINATION IN AN ALTERNATIVE WAY

To avoid airports and train stations, with the unlimited mileage of our campervans and motorhomes rental at VanBreak, you can travel throughout Spain and all of Europe, if the situation permits. You can go to Galicia to discover the unspoilt beaches, sleep in the mountain peack of the National Park of The Peacks of Europe (the Picos), visit Asturias, these are some great and possible plans to enjoy with your VanBreak van.

Arrive to your destination using VanBreak

6 – HOLIDAYS ALL INCLUSIVE 2 X 1: ACCOMMODATION + HIGH RANGE VEHICLE

Travelling in one of our fully equipped campervans or motorhomes, gives you the privilege of enjoying your road trip and choosing the most wonderful places to spend the night and sleep peacefully avoiding hotels and camping sites. (You can download the Park4night app to discover the coolest places to sleep).

Praia Do Amado - road trip algarve portugal

7 – PERSONAL HYGIENE

On board our campervans and motorhomes, you can use the bathroom, the shower in the  mini motorhome Burstner Citycar, and the portable shower and the dry toilet in the campervans: Volkswagen California. So you don’t have to worry about your personal care and hygiene. In addition, VanBreak offers you a hydroalcoholic disinfectant hand gel.

external shower vw california t6

8 – PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Travelling with VanBreak, you can enjoy a series of outdoor physical activities such as walking in nature, running by the sea, practicing yoga, cycling or stand up paddle surfing. Also you can seize the opportunity to practice meditation in exceptional natural sites.

Physical activity, standing paddle surf VanBreak

9 -TRAVEL BY CAMPERVAN AFTER CONFINEMENT: ADVENTURE WITH FAMILY

There is no doubt that after so much time of staying at home, the whole family and especially the kids deserve a getaway break to breathe and have a great time with family or friends too.

travel by campervan after confinement ; Family adventure

10 – DISCONNECT FROM CORONAVIRUS AND PROTECT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

With this mode of travelling, you are totally disconnected from the current events, news and television. It’s time to enjoy our environment and completely disconnect.

We hope to see you soon! Prepare your stuff and reserve your camper van or motorhome. Enjoy the special 15% discount with the code «Libertad15%» …

Travel by campervan after confinement and enjoy the freedom again 😉

Road-trip Andalusia

Road-trip Andalusia 1280 800 VanBreak - Campervan and MotorHome Hire in Spain
road trip Algarve Portugal - vanbreak

Road-trip in Portugal (Algarve) – 5 days

Road-trip in Portugal (Algarve) – 5 days 1048 648 VanBreak - Campervan and MotorHome Hire in Spain

For our first trip to kick off 2020, we decided to take some holidays travelling in motorhome compact and road trip alongside the famous Algarve region, in Southern Portugal. Our aim was simple: travelling with  Fiat Burstner Citycar motorhome compact and exploring Algarve’s beauty in just 5 days. A unique opportunity to fully immerse ourselves in nature, whilst exploring fishing villages, experiencing local food and gastronomy, and getting lost in some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Atlantic Coast. Below you will find further details of our amazing trip alongside some recommendations and suggestions for places to visit, eat and sleep with the van.

Road trip portugal motorhome - SANTA LUZIA

Road-Trip in Portugal (Algarve) : Key advantages

Travelling within a comfortable, fully-equipped motorhome compact, complete with air-con offers so much more than a simple road trip between locations. Delivering endless opportunities and a feeling of absolute freedom, the motorhome does not limit time and space, as it allows you to travel at your own pace and create memorable and unique experiences; falling asleep in stunning locations and waking up in front of outstanding scenery. Being on the road allows adventure seekers to stop wherever their heart desires to explore and discover. Personally we love this way of travelling as it adds so much more meaning to our travel experiences.

It is advised to familiarize yourself with the Portuguese toll system before setting out on your trip to Algarve. The Portuguese toll system apply to all vehicles and operates via taking photos of driver’s license plate directly on the road. More details about payment options can be found on http://www.portugaltolls.com/. Alternatively, from Spain to Algarve, the highway N-125 is following the coast and toll free.

Algarve Road Map:

  • Santa Luzia / Tavira
  • Carvoeiro
  • Praia Do Amado
  • Cacela Velha

Road-trip in Algarve : Day 1 – SANTA LUZIA (2 NIGHTS)

The first destination of our road trip was Santa Luzia; the Octopus capital, located 4 hours from Malaga. We highly recommend this location as the starting point for your journey of discovery of Oriental Algarve. Two days would be perfectly suited. A good first day would be exploring the town’s many hidden secrets and breathtaking surrounding beaches. On day two, it is suggested to visit Tavira’s touristic attractions and the stunning beaches of Tavira’s island.

octopus decoration - road trip to algarve vanbreak

Where to sleep in Santa Luzia ?

For our first night, we parked the van in front of the port, and had the chance to wake up to an outstanding view on the Atlantic Ocean and its picturesque fishing boats, admiring the sun glistening over the low tide. There are many other spots alongside the coast, between Santa Luzia and Pedras del Rei, where you can park the van for the night.

Things to do in Santa Luzia?

Without doubt, you should have a walk inside the old town, discovering its hidden laneways and admiring the colourful facades of the historical building. We personally loved visiting the fishing shacks and the village’s market, where locals sell fresh fish caught the night before. In this town, fishermen still use traditional methods to fish, dragging down some old-fashioned clay vases to the bottom of the sea to attract and catch octopuses.

Octopus mosaic in the Algarve - road trip to Portugal

Santa Luzia is ideally located at the far south of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, home to a cluster of protected lagoons filled with an array of marine life and migrating birds. The closest beach from Santa Luzia is Praia da Terra Estreita, one can only access via ferry, departing from the town’s marina. Here, the atmosphere is incredibly peaceful and relaxing, making it an amazing place to chill.

To admire the beauty of Santa Luzia’s surrounding beaches, you can walk, ride a bike or run alongside the path that cradles the coast line. As the path draws to an end, you arrive to the Anchor Graveyard, an historic symbol of Oriental Algarve, an oxidized memory of the former fishing fleet. It consists of anchors that fishermen of the past used to fish tuna, abandoned onto the sand dunes close to the Barril Beach. You can reach Barril Beach by walking down a bridge from the village of Pedras Del Rei. The beach is surrounded by crystal clear serene waters, an ideal spot for families. A unique location nestled within local traditions and history, this beach is without doubt one of the most picturesque in the region.

port santa luzia Algarve

Typical things to eat in Santa Luzia

You can’t visit Santa Luzia without trying the local speciality, the “Polvo”, a traditional octopus dish. For instance, you can savour this amazing dish at Sol e Mar, Polvo & Companhia. For morning or afternoon tea, we recommend the coffee shop of Santa Luzia, a place where local fisherman gather.

octopus and shrimp plates Santa Luzia portugal

Road-trip in Algarve : Day 2 – TAVIRA

Tavira is an ideal destination for vacation. On one hand, for its monuments and architecture. We suggest you visit its castle, at the top of the hill, its white churches, its Roman bridge, its cobblestoned laneways, its traditional houses, its tiled facades and its Arabian castle walls. As well as for its natural surrounds: Tavira is well known for its beaches, its rivers, its coastline and for the wild landscapes of Ria Farmosa Natural Park’s.

Tavira Algarve Portugal - road trip vanbreak

Things to do in Tavira

Near the banks of the Gilão River is the town of Tavira, with its precious blend of Portuguese traditions and Arab influences. The town is full of charm, an ideal location to spend a pleasant day. You can stroll through the alleys of its old town, cross its river on the Roman pedestrian bridge, discover the typical tiled houses. I also advise you to visit its beautiful churches, its monasteries and the ruins of the amazing Arab castle. This castle stands as a reminder that Tavira was a strategic city in the defense of the Arab kingdom. Another attraction of Tavira is its tower. An old water reserve transformed into a dark room where panoramic views of the city are projected. At last, it’s strongly advised that you visit the bustling morning market, the best place to experience Portuguese daily life.

Roman bridge Tavira - Portugal Road trip to Algarve Vanbreak

Tavira has a spectacular coastline of beaches located on sandy islands. The largest of these islands is Ilha de Tavira, with its continuous 12 km of golden sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. It is located in a protected natural setting, far from urban development. The closest beach to Tavira is Praia de Tavira. It is a heavenly place, connected to the city by a ferry leaving from the port (2 € round trip). The shores of the island are ideal for walking. This place is one of the ideal destinations for a family holiday in Portugal, with its calm and welcoming atmosphere.

Fish with plastic bottles - Tavira road trip algarve vanbreak

Typical food to eat in Santa Luzia

To eat well and at low cost, I recommend the Jao Belhi restaurant, in the center of Tavira. It offers a specialty rice dish with seafood typical of the area, with crab, mussels, razor clams and cockles … The restaurant is always crowded with locals, which is a good sign!

Eat in Tavira Algarve Portugal - Vanbreak road trip

Délice de riz aux fruits de mer

Road-trip in Algarve : Day 3 – CARVOEIRO

After two days spent in Tavira and Santa Luzia, we continued our road trip in the Algarve. We went back on the road with the campervan, towards the West, our destination was Carvoeiro, an area that offers many things to see and do. One can discover historic towns, such as the fishing village of Ferragudo or the town of Silves. There are also amazing hiking and climbing routes to experience. For example, we loved the scenic hiking route of Sete Vales Suspensos and the beautiful cliffs of Algar Seco. You can also take a boat to explore breathtaking rock formations and caves carved by the wind for centuries. I recommend the Benagil cave, the Boneca and the Praia da Marinha, considered as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Carveiro Algarve - road trip au Portugal avec Vanbreak

We parked at the Algar Seco to take a stroll along the Atlantic and enjoy the panoramic views. You can access this natural park on foot via a wooden walkway, which takes you to the beach and to the village of Carvoeiro. On the way, one can contemplate the coastal landscape of the cliffs and the geological formations. Some caves are accessible, and you can go down there safely.

Carveiro Algarve - road trip au Portugal vanbreak

Road-trip in Algarve : Day 4 – Praia do Amado (1 night)

In search of adrenaline, we went to surf the impressive waves of the Atlantic, at Do Amado beach, yet again another destination easily accessible by our comfortable accommodation; the Burstner City Car. There are two large parking spaces where you can park the mini camper, cook and spend your vacation in #VANLIFE mode.

Located in the town of Carrapateira, Aljezur, on the Costa Vicentina, Praia do Amado is one of the best Portuguese beaches for surfing. Surrounded by dark cliffs and mountains, without any hotel in sight. With some of the best conditions for surfing, kite surfing and wind surfing, important surfing competitions are held here frequently. Praia do Amado is a paradise for nature lovers, with this large beach stretching over three valleys. There are also hiking trails, which allow you to enjoy the coastal landscape and a set of walkways that lead to different views of the beach. For example, there is a path that runs along the cliff which ends at Bordeira Beach.

Praia Do Amado - road trip Algarve Portugal

At this spot, the Vanlife experience really comes to life, with a whole community of campers. You can cook, eat, read a good book, take a hot shower and fall asleep listening to the waves and watching the stars from your bed. We experienced 100% of our road trip adventure in the Algarve, with Vanbreak.

Road-trip in Algarve : Day 5 – Cacela Velha

As the last stop of our road trip in Algarve, before returning to Spain (Andalusia), we spent an amazing night at Cacela Velha de la Vila Real de Santo Antonio. A small village that overwhelms you with its beauty. Time seems to have stood still here for many years, and without doubt this quaint village consists of some of the best views in the area. Offering the most beautiful sights of the Atlantic Ocean and the vast expanses of sand in the Ría Formosa Natural Park.

Cacela Algarve

Cacela Velha is located on the top of a hill with a panoramic view of the eastern lagoons of the Ria Formosa. It is a preserved natural site, surrounded by the sea and the Ria, the pine forests, the fishing boats, the medieval Matriz church and the fortress of Cacela, of Arab origin.

Praia Do Amado - algarve portugal

Things to do in Cacela Velha

You can do paddle boarding (possibility to rent it with VanBreak), fish, walk along the sea and the lagoons, or cross the Ria by boat, to reach paradise beaches, such as the Manta Rota. You can also stroll through the cobbled laneways of the village and discover the characteristic essence of the place, defined by its white houses with doors and windows framed in blue or yellow, and decorated with flowers reminiscent of its Arab past.

maisons à Cacela Velha Portugal

Typical food and where you can park to sleep in Cacela Velha?

Cacela Velha has a few fantastic restaurants where you can taste the delicious gastronomic specialties from the region. For instance, you can taste the delicious cod, grilled sardines, octopus, oysters and clams, which must be accompanied by a good vinho verde, typical of the region.

To sleep, we were able to park the motorhome at the entrance of the village. On the left, there is a parking overlooking the bay, where you can stay overnight and enjoy your own balcony over the sea and the Ria Formosa. Visiting Cacela Velha is essential, an experience filled with happiness, happiness that costs nothing.

SO, ARE YOU READY FOR A ROAD TRIP IN PORTUGAL (Algarve) IN MOTORHOME ? 

Prepare your backpacks for your next road trip in the Algarve and come and live the experience with Vanbreak 🙂 Take excursions to these small villages and experience these authentic places, discovering some of the most beautiful sites and wonders of the region’s natural parks; we guarantee you that you will fall in love!  🚐😍

Finally, if you have some time, I invite you to watch this video of vanbreakers. A 10-day stay in Portugal, aboard the van Volkswagen California Beach combi: