The village of Barão de São João, in the municipality of Lagos, will once again become a meeting point for nature lovers, artists and families when the Walk & Art Fest returns from November 6 to 8.
The three-day festival offers a varied programme of guided walks, mountain biking, creative workshops, music, poetry, documentaries and wellbeing activities, encouraging visitors to explore the Algarve’s countryside while discovering different forms of artistic expression.
All activities are free, although advance registration is required through the festival’s official website.
The Barão de São João Cultural Centre will once again serve as the festival’s headquarters, with activities taking place throughout the village and its surrounding countryside.
Visitors can choose from walks of varying difficulty, including routes through the Mata de Barão de São João woodland and excursions exploring the area’s natural, historical and cultural heritage.
Art will also feature prominently, with workshops covering cyanotype printing, botanical printing on paper, drawing and other techniques inspired by nature.
New additions to this year’s programme include pyrography (wood burning), mindfulness with mandalas, meditation, crochet and macramé, alongside a screening of Mulheres de Garra, a documentary by Vera Abreu.
Children and families will have their own activities focused on environmental education and outdoor discovery, while music and poetry performances will provide opportunities for visitors, artists and residents to come together.
‘Peace & Love’ takes centre stage
This year’s collective art installation will explore the theme Paz & Amor (Peace & Love), inviting participating artists to reflect on the importance of empathy, solidarity and human connection at a time of conflict and division.
Artworks will be displayed at various locations throughout Barão de São João, transforming the village into an open-air exhibition.
Visitors will have an opportunity to explore the installation alongside the artists themselves during an inaugural guided tour on Friday, November 6, from 3pm to 5pm.
The installation aims to encourage reflection and dialogue, using art to promote messages of hope, peace and respect for both people and nature.
Celebrating the Algarve’s rural heritage
Organised by Lagos Council and environmental association Almargem, the festival seeks to promote responsible outdoor recreation, celebrate local heritage and strengthen connections between visitors and the community.
The event is part of the Algarve Walking Season, a regional initiative bringing together walking festivals that showcase the Algarve’s landscapes, particularly its rural and inland areas.
The full programme and registration details are available at walkartfest.pt. Further information can be obtained by emailing [email protected] or calling 289 412 959.
