Discover the Algarve's Hidden Gems on foot - A Hikers paradise

São Bartolomeu de Messines, Portugal

Fo
Figs on the Funcho
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43 reviews
Apr 12 - 18, 2024
Group size: 5 - 5
Discover the Algarve's Hidden Gems on foot - A Hikers paradise
São Bartolomeu de Messines, Portugal

Figs on the Funcho
  • Email address verified
43 reviews

Apr 12 - 18, 2024
Group size: 5 - 5

About this trip

Embark on a breathtaking journey through the Algarve, where hidden gems and stunning scenery await you. Experience the best of what this beautiful region has to offer, from delightful wildlife to endless sunshine, on a 6-night walking holiday at Figs on the Funcho. 


With direct views over Barragem do Funcho (river), you'll be able to soak up the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape. Stroll along the tranquil riverside paths and marvel at the breathtaking views that will take your breath away. 


As the day turns to night, enjoy clear starry skies and stunning sunsets, making your walking holiday in the Algarve an unforgettable experience.

The walking experience

This holiday is an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors in one of Europe’s most stunning locations and to explore the wonderful Algarve walking routes.


Some walks will be led by expert guides and some by Cheryl, or Graham and adjusted to suit all the needs of the group. Whether you are keen to hike or just want to explore this region and its hidden beauty, your guide will ensure this trip is perfect for you.


As well as immersing yourself in the Algarve’s culture by visiting the idyllic towns, beautiful architecture and enjoying its delicious local cuisine, you can explore its rich history including a visit to the remnants of the famous 1834 Sant’Ana battle, as well as many other historic sights such as the Necropolis of Pedreirinha, dating back to the Early Middle Ages.


This holiday is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a truly wonderful experience in a stunning and relaxing location.

What you can expect to see and do

  • Unspoilt, uncrowded, peaceful and tranquil setting off the the beaten track where you can fully relax and rejuvenate
  • Enjoy the riverside location with an infinity swimming pool that has un-interrupted panoramic country and river views
  • See how many birds that are local to Figs on the Funcho that you can spot from the relaxed comfort of the shaded seating area
  • Starry skies and unforgettable sunsets
  • You can enjoy our location all year round with very pleasant sunshine and warm temperatures even in the winter 
  • Horse riding nearby
  • Relaxing massages on order

What’s included

Included in this package is accommodation in a well-appointed and relaxing double room, breakfast each day and dinner each evening. 


Lunch at Figs on the Funcho is included on most days depending on the walking route chosen. We will also come and pick you up from the airport at 15h00. 


There’s one of a few things that are not included, and they include entrance fees to any of the local attractions we visit whilst out sight-seeing, your drinks at Figs on the Funcho (we have an honesty bar at your disposal), and some lunches.

The Venue

Figs on the Funcho, crowned by LuxLife's Hospitality Award as "Algarve's Most Idyllic Riverside Retreat 2023", offers breath-taking country views that will undoubtedly leave you in awe. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the surroundings, let the stunning landscapes inspire you, and create memories that will last a lifetime.


Our home-from-home, The River House, is the perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking modern comfort, privacy, and peace. This renovated 100-year-old farmhouse riverside property boasts an infinity swimming pool, 5 large bedrooms, and can accommodate up to 10 people with the option of single or double beds. 


In addition to the villa, The River House also offers the option of staying in our two luxurious safari tents in the garden with stunning river views. Each tent can accommodate up to 2 guests, providing a unique and immersive nature experience. So, whether you choose to stay in the villa or one of our safari tents, you're sure to have an unforgettable and restorative getaway.

Meet Cheryl and Graham

We'll pick you up from the agreed-upon location or, if you've opted for a different route, we'll warmly welcome you at the riverside villa. 


For those arriving by train, disembark at Messines-Alte train station and choose a quick 5-minute taxi ride to reach the villa. This is an excellent choice for those who prefer to avoid an internal flight and instead savour a scenic journey through the countryside.


If you're flying into Faro airport, you have two options: either take the train to Messines-Alte and select a 5-minute taxi ride to the villa or opt for a 45-minute airport taxi transfer directly to the villa.


Follow the Google map directions for those travelling by car.

Check in Check-out

Check-in from 16h00. Guests are requested to arrive before 21h00; otherwise, arrival should be scheduled for the following morning.


Check-out will be after the 09h00 breakfast.

Getting here

We'll pick you up from the agreed-upon location or, if you've opted for a different route, we'll warmly welcome you at the riverside villa. 


For those arriving by train, disembark at Messines-Alte train station and choose a quick 5-minute taxi ride to reach the villa. This is an excellent choice for those who prefer to avoid an internal flight and instead savour a scenic journey through the countryside.


If you're flying into Faro airport, you have two options: either take the train to Messines-Alte and select a 5-minute taxi ride to the villa or opt for a 45-minute airport taxi transfer directly to the villa.

Follow the Google map directions for those travelling by car.

What to Bring

Sun hat, sun cream, and suitable footwear for walking to explore different paths.


A swimming costume to enjoy the pool and wetsuits and swimming shoes for wild swimming or canoeing in the dam. I strongly advise wearing swimming shoes for all river activities. 

Please Note: Check water levels in advance for optimal water sport experiences during dry periods in the Algarve.


Something warm to relax in at night


Re-useable water bottle 


Binoculars, walking sticks (highly recommended), good walking shoes, windbreaker and waterproof jacket

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel until 30 days before arrival and you shall be entitled to a refund of the total amount paid by you to us in relation to such booking less a cancellation charge equal to the amount of the Deposit paid by you.

You will be charged the total price of the reservation if you cancel in the 30 days before arrival. If you don’t show up you will be charged the total price of the reservation.    

What’s included

  • Welcome drinks
  • Guided Walks
    Guided nature walk every day
  • Accommodation
    Spacious, comfortable accommodation. Single or double beds with shared spacious bathroom or double room with bathroom en-suite
  • Meals
    Breakfast and dinner. Packed lunch or a picnic is provided on most walks except when you eat at a local restaurant at your cost (not included: alcoholic drinks (honesty bar provided))
  • Airport Transfers
    We’ll have one Faro airport pick-up at 15h00 for the group. We can arrange airport transfers for you at other times for your cost.
  • Cleaning
    Mid week room clean and towel change
  • Towels
    Bath and swimming pool towels
  • Wifi

What’s not included

  • Activities
    Optional activities such as massages or horse riding
  • Insurance
    Travel Insurance (recommended)
  • Drinks
    Alcoholic drinks and cool drinks, we have an honesty bar
  • Airfares
    Airfares to Portugal
  • Meals
    Some lunches depending on the walking route chosen

Available Packages

Zebra Room, Single Occupant

Single Occupancy in the Zebra Room: Located upstairs, this room provides picturesque river views and shares a modern bathroom equipped with dual basins.


If you're unsure about your choice of bedroom, we encourage you to explore all the available options within the villa.


If you prefer to room with a friend kindly send an email to email [email protected] to make this request. 

€1,170
Deposit: €293
Private room with en-suite 2 People

Rooms with river views and en-suite bathroom.

€2,794
Deposit: €698
Private Room Shared Bathroom 2 persons
€1,700
Deposit: €425


Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival Day

Arrive from 14h00 to settle into your accommodation and enjoy the stunning yet tranquil riverside location that is surrounded by panoramic views.

Join us for welcome drinks at 18h30, on the waterfront deck, where you will have the opportunity to meet your walking group and enjoy the sunset. Dinner will be enjoyed outdoors (weather permitting), where you will be served a wholesome vegetarian meal that was lovingly prepared by your hosts, Graham and Cheryl.

After dinner enjoy a cheese platter served with port under the carob trees.  

Later you can retreat into your beautiful rooms for the evening and relax ahead of the first full day of your walking holiday in the Algarve. 

Guests need to arrive before 22h00 otherwise arrival needs to occur the following morning.

Your Organizer


Fo
Figs on the Funcho
43 reviews
🏆LuxLife Hospitality Award: Algarve's Most Idyllic Riverside Retreat 2023 Cheryl & Graham, co-founders of Figs on the Funcho, share their love for the Algarve through culinary, walking & painting packages. With 20 years of experience, they explore the best beaches, restaurants, and villages for a memorable experience. Passionate about cooking, they draw inspiration from culinary experts like Ottolenghi, Ixta Belfrage, Sami Tamimi, and Jamie Oliver. Their retreats offer healthy and delicious vegetarian meals, delighting all taste buds.

Reviews

I had a great time, lovely people. Really delicious food. Comfortable accommodation. The ambience and location is glorious. If you need time out for yourself to get grounded and release stress this is a perfect place. The art course was very interesting and learnt a lot. Rita was really helpful and introduced different techniques and ideas. The Yoga finished off the day before settling down to absolutely delicious meal cooked by Graham and Cheryl. They produced many varieties of amazing dishes using local produce and home grown vegetables and fruits. Nothing was too much trouble to ensure your stay was one to remember. There is always an opportunity to visit other places and walk if you wanted. Chilling by the pool looking out onto the fantastic views was wonderful. This is not a hotel its a retreat where you can escape to and enjoy a few days away from it all. If you want this experience i truly recommend figs on the funcho.
By Caryl B for Botanical Watercolour Painting & Yoga Holiday Retreat June on Jun 20, 2025
A delightful trip. The hosts, Cheryl and Graham, made me feel very welcome and all the painting activities were very well planned. The three painting tutors provided variety and each session was informative and enjoyable. The three yoga sessions were extremely relaxing and a perfect way to finish the days' activities. The catering, accommodation and setting of Figs on the Funcho were all first class and it felt like I had been treated like a guest throughout. I would recommend this destination and hope that I might return one day.
By sylvia f for Portugal Painting with Yoga June 2025 - Mixed Media and Yoga on Jun 18, 2025
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Figs on the Funcho—it was nothing short of magical. I brought my husband and our two daughters, and we truly can't recommend this retreat highly enough. From the moment we arrived, we felt completely at ease. Cheryl and Graham were the most gracious hosts—we honestly feel like we've made two lifelong friends. They looked after us with such warmth and care. The painting sessions were wonderfully relaxing and completely pressure-free, which was perfect since a few of us were beginners. It didn’t matter in the slightest—everyone felt welcome and encouraged. The food was absolutely gorgeous. They catered beautifully to our plant-based and vegetarian preferences, and nothing was ever too much trouble. Every meal was a delight. The location itself is breathtaking—surrounded by nature, peaceful, and deeply restorative. It was everything we hoped for and more. We will most definitely be back. Highly recommended.
By Tina T for Botanical Watercolour Painting & Yoga Holiday Retreat June on Jun 13, 2025
Had a fabulous time. Cheryl and Graham welcome you into their home and make you feel like part of the family. The atmosphere is relaxed, informal and friendly. The food varied, delicious and copious! The hosts generous, friendly and welcoming. The location is quiet, relaxing and stunning! Honestly one of the best few days away I’ve had to reset, recharge and relax whilst still learning and “doing things” Cannot recommend the trip enough - you won’t regret spending a few days at Figs on the Funcho!
By Laura R for Vegetarian Delights : Embracing the Mediterranean Lifestyle Diet May on May 16, 2025
We had a delicious lunch, with amazing Israeli inspired vegetarian dishes, our hosts were lovely and the setting for our lunch was just perfect.
By Marguerite I for AFPOP-Lunch on May 08, 2025
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