Healing Steps: How Portugal's Fishermen's Trail Helped a War Reporter Overcome Grief

After the sudden loss of her mother and two close friends, Christina Lamb, a seasoned war correspondent, found solace on the Fishermen's Trail in Portugal. The rugged cliffs, wildflowers, and endless sea views provided a backdrop for her journey through grief and guilt.

The Fishermen's Trail, part of the Rota Vicentina, stretches 142 miles along Portugal's southwest coast. Lamb and a friend tackled a 65-mile segment from Odeceixe to Sagres, a path less traveled compared to the tourist-heavy Algarve. The journey was not just physical but emotional, offering Lamb a way to process her loss amidst nature's beauty.

Highlights of the trail included:

• Praia de Odeceixe, a stunning beach curtained by dark cliffs.
• The unique sight of storks nesting on coastal rocks, a rare phenomenon.
• The Vicentina Coast Natural Park, with its vibrant wildflowers and rugged landscapes.

Despite initial doubts about her physical readiness, Lamb found the walk transformative. The simplicity of moving forward, step by step, brought a sense of peace and healing. The trip also offered unexpected joys, like the delicious local cuisine and the warm hospitality at guesthouses along the way.

The journey culminated at Cape St Vincent, once considered the edge of the known world. Here, Lamb reflected on her mother's love for Portugal and the healing power of nature. The trail, though challenging, left her with a desire to return and explore more of Portugal's breathtaking landscapes.