I am planning a trip to southern Portugal in mid-October. Itinerary includes:
4 nights in Lisbon
A full day to drive down the southwest coast visiting nature parks and beaches with short walks along the coastal trails
1 night in Odeceixe
1 day to drive to Salema via Monchique for a quick dip in the hot springs
2 nites in Salema to tour around the western Algarve
Take a full day to drive to Tavira touring the coast along the way
2 nites in Tavira to tour the eastern Algarve
Take a day to drive to Evora stopping in a natural park and at the megaliths along the way
2 nites in Evora with a 1.5 days to tour Evora
1/2 day drive back to Lisbon, fly out the next day.
This is feeling a bit rushed. Thoughts on if we should linger in one place or another. Our preference is for nature and culture. Is it worth it to stay longer on the west coast? Worth it to spend a night in Monchique vs. Salema? Is Sagres a must see or are the northern reaches of Costa Vincenta nature park just as satisfying? Thanks for your thoughts and experience!