The Art of Almond Tree Grafting in the Algarve Hills

Join a guided almond tree grafting day in the Algarve hills

Set out from a local farmhouse for a hike through Algarve mountain trails to reach groves of centuries-old almond trees. A local guide shows you how to identify different almond varieties by their tree, bark, and kernel characteristics, before walking you through the traditional grafting process step by step — and giving you the chance to graft a tree yourself. The return hike includes stops for foraging almonds and wild plants. The day concludes with a traditional lunch of chickpea and goat stew, slow-cooked in a cast iron pot over an open fire. A hands-on, seasonal encounter with centuries-old farming traditions in the Algarve countryside.

Itinerary

• 9:00 — Meet at the local farmhouse
• 9:15 — Hike through Algarve mountain trails to the almond orchard
• Identification of centuries-old almond trees and varieties
• Hands-on almond tree grafting session
• 11:30 — Return hike to the farmhouse, with stops for foraging and explanations
• 12:30 — Traditional lunch: chickpea and goat stew, slow-cooked over an open fire
• Free time before departure

What is included

• Almond variety guide sheet (Portuguese and English)
• Local guide accompaniment throughout the experience
• Cane tube for foraging almonds and plants along the trail
• Traditional lunch: chickpea and goat stew, cooked over an open fire

Highlights

Centuries-Old Trees, Hands-On Learning. This isn’t a passive walk through an orchard — guests learn the actual grafting technique and take part in grafting a living almond tree themselves.

A Living Almond Encyclopedia. The guide teaches how to recognize different almond varieties by bark, tree shape, and kernel — knowledge passed down through generations of Algarve farmers.

Authentic Mountain Trails. The hike follows real serra algarvia paths used by local villagers for generations, offering genuine access to rural Algarve life rarely seen by tourists.

A Fire-Cooked Farmhouse Lunch. The day closes with a traditional chickpea and goat stew, cooked slowly in a cast iron pot over an open flame — a true taste of Algarve farming heritage.

Foraging Along the Way. The return hike includes stops to gather almonds and wild plants, adding a tactile, take-home element to the experience.

Transportation

• Not included – contact us if you need private transfer

Meeting point

• After booking we will send all the details of the farm, location (meeting point) and contact.