The Fisherman’s Trail snagged me a while back, and this route immediately captivated my imagination. Since then, I’ve patiently waited for the perfect moment to finally hit it. This year, I feel it’s time. I had a few vacation days left from last year that I needed to burn off by the end of March, so Portugal was the obvious choice.
Why stick around Czechia when March means cold, snow, and endless miserable slush? I love trekking in our landscape, but I’ll admit I’m not exactly geared up for spring’s fickle weather here. I want to enjoy the trip, stay healthy, and keep it chill. So, I planned for a week to ten days, making sure the journey made sense and offered reasonable walking conditions. Can you imagine a better escape from the grey pre-spring funk than heading straight for the Atlantic waves?
Back to Beloved Portugal
Memories instantly pulled me back to Portugal, where I once tackled my first big international Camino. I still remember how the sun scorched me there, even in March! While the Fisherman’s Trail is a different kind of trek – I’ll be sleeping warm under a roof, not out in the wild – it doesn’t diminish that liberating feeling of time spent in raw nature one bit.
I’ve already walked the inland Camino, so I’m keen to try something new. The Fisherman’s Trail tempts me with its location: March again, Portugal again, but this time I’m heading further south, right along the untamed ocean. What’s there to wait for? Just March, I guess.
Prepping, Flights, and a Minimalist Plan for the Fisherman’s Trail
Once I pulled the trigger, I started devouring information and watching flight prices. When they suspiciously jumped at the beginning of February, I didn’t hesitate and snagged them on February 5th. A direct flight to Lisbon and back ensures maximum comfort. I’ve already got my first night’s reservation in hand and bought a bus ticket to Porto Covo, my starting point.
I wrestled with the itinerary for the Fisherman’s Trail for a long time, though. Honestly, daily sections around 20 kilometers feel short to me; I usually crush longer distances. Sure, everyone’s chirping about how walking in deep sand is way more exhausting than solid ground, but even so… we’ll see. I’ll stick to the plan for the first day, and if the legs are still spinning, I’ll just keep going. The trail means freedom, after all!
My Whole World Fits in 22 Liters
This time, I’m leaving checked luggage at home. My trusty partner will be a minimalist 22-liter pack, the Elevate 22 from Hyperlite Mountain Gear. What does one truly need for life on the trail, anyway? I packed only the absolute essentials:
- Spare underwear and sleep clothes.
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, soap, and a light towel.
- Footwear and clothing: Camp shoes and solid rain gear.
The rest goes on my back, and I’m confident this 22-liter beast will be plenty (check out my complete gear list).
The Trekking Pole Logistical Nut on the Fisherman’s Trail
I’m currently tackling my last logistical headache: trekking poles. Since I’m flying with only a carry-on, I can’t bring poles from home – security won’t let them into the plane cabin. And I’m not keen on shelling out for new ones at Decathlon in Lisbon.
It seems much more sensible and sustainable to connect with someone via Facebook groups. Maybe I’ll find a hiker finishing the Fisherman’s Trail who doesn’t want to deal with poles on the way back. Can you think of any other clever hacks to solve this elegantly?
Prep Summary:
- Destination: Fisherman’s Trail, Portugal
- Timing: March 2026
- Planned Start: Porto Covo
I’m chomping at the bit for the action, adventure, and absolute freedom out in nature. In a week, I’ll be on the trail! What are your experiences walking in sand – is it really the pace-killer everyone claims? Share your tips in the comments!
