Rota Vicentina – Associação

Rota Vicentina, the Association for the Promotion of Nature Tourism on the Alentejo and Vicentina Coast, is the non-profit body that has managed, developed and promoted the Rota Vicentina network of walking and cycling trails since 2013. The network runs along the south-west coast from Aljezur in the Algarve up to Odemira and beyond in the Alentejo, crossing three districts, two regions and six municipalities. The network includes the Historical Way and Fishermen's Trail long-distance walking routes, a set of circular routes, and cycling options ranging from mountain bike and gravel or bikepacking routes to a long-distance MTB trail and touring-bike itineraries. Rota Vicentina started with about 100 founding members and now has more than 200, mostly local businesses but also individuals, some public entities and more than 40 tour operators from 11 different countries, all of whom can display the "Rota Vicentina Partner" stamp and appear on the association's interactive map. The association describes its approach as combining tourism promotion with local community impact, conservation work and consulting for the region, on the principle that a place cannot be good to visit if it is not also good to live in. It publishes a live wildfire-risk warning map and safety guidance for walkers and cyclists on the network, and is currently run by a Board of Directors serving the 2025-2028 term. Local businesses and individuals can apply to join the partner network, with annual fees from EUR 60 for a listed partner up to EUR 300 for a full partner company, gaining a promotional pack, a page on the Rota Vicentina website and interactive map, and discounts on materials. The association also welcomes volunteers and accepts donations through its website.