Aditi Rane, 29, booked a walking holiday with Involved Holidays in Portugal's Algarve and discovered at the airport that she would spend seven days with 24 pensioners, a turn of events that led to new friendships and a newfound appreciation for travelling with strangers.
Rane had pictured coastal trails, sunshine and fellow travellers around her age. Instead, she arrived to find a group of retirees, and initially wondered whether she would feel like an interloper among sensible walking shoes and well-earned retirement.
Unexpected Companionship
Her worries proved unfounded. Many of her fellow travellers had come alone, some on their first solo holiday, while others were divorcees or widowers seeking a change of scenery and companionship. Involved Holidays does not charge a single supplement for solo travellers, making its trips appealing to those who want the freedom of travelling alone without spending the holiday alone.
People had arrived from different corners of the country, carrying their own stories, yet shared a willingness to put themselves out there. With long, communal dinner tables and no pressure to sit with the same people each evening, conversations moved beyond holiday small talk. By the end of the week, few details of one another's lives were left unexplored.
Exploring the Western Algarve
The group stayed at the Vila Galé Náutico in Armação de Pêra, a seaside town with a long golden beach and a promenade perfect for evening wanders. The hotel offered two swimming pools, one indoor and one outdoor, with breakfast and dinner included in the package. Portuguese, Mexican and seafood-themed evenings punctuated the week, with the Portuguese night receiving a Halloween-inspired makeover.
Across three guided walks, the group covered landscapes from the coastal cliffs between Praia da Marinha and Carvoeiro to the countryside around Ilha do Rosário. There were fishing villages, winding paths, rock formations and time to explore Lagos and the historic town of Silves, with free days in between. Routes were around five to five-and-a-half miles, led by knowledgeable local guides.
Booking Details
The seven-night, half board 'Walking in the Western Algarve' holiday starts from £1,449 per person when departing on 13 February 2027, staying at the four-star Vila Galé Náutico Algarve. The price includes return economy flights from London Gatwick, in resort transfers and luggage as standard.
