Portugal with Colin Stack-Troost

Dates

Oct 5–11, 2026

Group Size

10–24 Travelers

Duration

7 days, 6 nights

Activity Level

Adventure

About This Trip

Hey wanderlusters! You are invited to embark on a bucket-list journey with me through the heart of Portugal, from the streets of Lisbon to the sun-kissed Algarve coast. This trip has been tailored by me for adventurers seeking a blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal exploration. We'll get to experience a variety of Portugal's offerings with a tuk-tuk excursion, a culinary tour, a Lisbon sunset cruise, an exhilarating surf class on the Estoril Coast, and a boat trip through coastal caves. I'll be curating the vibes for this Queer-inclusive adventure and look forward to creating lifelong memories!
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Meet Your Host

Colin Stack-troost
Colin Stack-troost

Hi, I'm Colin! I'm a psychotherapist specializing in LGBTQ+ mental health. Travel is one of the most amazing things we can do, it provides the opportunity to explore new places and cultures to learn about the world we live in. I'm looking forward to curating travel experiences for kindred spirits and making memories that will last a lifetime!

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Trip Activities

  • Lisbon Tuk-Tuk City Tour

  • A Foodie's Intro to Lisbon

  • Lisbon Sunset Cruise

  • Surf Class on the Estoril Coast

  • Algarve Market Visit

  • Carvoeiro’s Caves Boat Tour

  • Seven Hanging Valleys Hike

  • Vineyard Tour & Tasting

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotels (limited single rooms available)

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

Not Included

  • Flights (except as noted)

  • Food & Alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas & Travel Insurance

  • Airport Transfers Outside

  • Tips & Gratuity

What's included by Your Host

Mystery Outing

Informal Gathering
For those who want to explore a bit of the local Queer scene, meet in the lobby at 10pm... the rest will all be revealed!

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Welcome to Lisbon!

Welcome to Portugal! Check-in at the hotel starts at 4:00 P.M. Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30 P.M. to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into LIS.

dinner

Welcome dinner included at a local restaurant where you will get to try typical Portuguese food. Your meal tonight will be a set menu consisting of a starter, main entree and dessert with one alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink depending on the restaurant. Final restaurant to be determined.

Eurostars Lisboa Parque (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/3

Overnight in Lisbon

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Day 2

Lisbon by Tuk Tuk

Today you will discover Lisbon by taking a city tour in a tuk-tuk! Along the way, your local guide will take you to some traditional restaurants and cafes in the city to taste the local food. After the tour you will have free time to explore the city on your own. In the afternoon you will reconvene with the group and hop aboard a sailboat for a sunset cruise. After the boat ride you will have the remainder of the day on your own. Please remember to wear comfortable walking shoes.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are buffet or continental style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Lisbon Tuk-Tuk City Tour

1 Hour 30 Mins

After breakfast your local guide and driver will meet you at the hotel reception area to begin your tour. Hop in a tuk-tuk and explore the city's charming corners, from the narrow streets of the old town in Alfama to some panoramic viewpoints as the one called Senhora do Monte. You will be making stops throughout the experience. Please note: tuk-tuks are limited to 6 people, so your group will be using multiple.

A Foodie's Intro to Lisbon

1 Hour 30 Mins

During the tuk-tuk tour, your local guide will take you to some of their favorite spots in Lisbon to enjoy some local snacks. 3 tastings of traditional Portuguese dishes are included. At the end of the tour you will stop at a local restaurant for lunch. Please note that the specific food offerings may vary depending on the day of the tour.

lunch

Lunch included this afternoon is at a local restaurant. You will have a set menu with one beverage alcoholic of non-alcoholic included, depending on the restaurant. Final restaurant to be determined.

Lisbon Sunset Cruise

1 Hour 30 Mins

In the afternoon you will reconvene with the group and hop aboard a shared cruise and admire some of the most stunning views of the city of Lisbon from the Tagus River. You will walk to and meet In the vicinity of Terreiro do Paço. The location will be confirmed before you arrive. You will enjoy a very special atmosphere as the monuments are presented in a totally different light from the rest of the day, offering a scene worthy of a picture postcard. After your cruise, you will take a 20 minute transfer back to your hotel.

Mystery Outing

For those who want to explore a bit of the local Queer scene, meet in the lobby at 10pm... the rest will all be revealed!

Eurostars Lisboa Parque (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/3

Overnight in Lisbon

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 3

Surf Lesson

After breakfast you will be transferred down the coast for a thrilling morning of surfing! With your coach, learn different tips and techniques to get you riding those Portuguese waves. After your lesson you will be transferred back to Lisbon where you will have the remainder of the day on your own. You should pack a change of clothes for after the activity and towel. Please note, due to the tides, it's possible that your surf class could be shifted to the evening.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are buffet or continental style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer to Carcavelos

1 Hour

Take a private transfer to Carcavelos.

Surf Class on the Estoril Coast

2 Hours

This morning you will be transferred 30 minutes in a private coach to the beach. Upon arrival, a local surf instructor will teach you how to hang ten on the beaches of the stunning Estoril Coast. The activity lasts about 2 hours from the time you arrive until the end of the activity. You will be in the water for approximately 1 hour. Wetsuit, board and leash are included. No prior experience necessary. Please note, due to the tides, it's possible that your surf class could be shifted to the evening.

Transfer back to Lisbon

1 Hour

Take a return transfer back to Lisbon.

Eurostars Lisboa Parque (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/3

Overnight in Lisbon

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Day 4

Boat Tour

After breakfast you will leave the city and head to the coast for the Algarve. When you arrive you will discover the gastronomy of the south of the country by visiting a local market and enjoying a delectable lunch. In the afternoon you will go to Carvoeiro and Benagil for a boat tour to admire the amazing coast of this region and its famous caves. After the boat tour you will return to your hotel and will have the remainder of the day at your own leisure. Please remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and to pack a jacket for the morning. Additionally if the weather is warm, pack a swim suit, towel, and change of clothes if you plan on swimming during the boat tour this afternoon.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are buffet or continental style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer to Loulé

4 Hours

Take private transfer to Loulé. Stops for bathrooms will be made along the way as needed.

Algarve Market Visit

30 Mins

Join your guide for a captivating market visit in an Algarve market. Discover fresh, locally sourced ingredients used in iconic regional specialties. Spend time look at the different stalls and learning about the local agriculture. In total you will be walking for roughly a half mile to a mile, depending on the market. Please be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be walking on cobblestones. You will finish near a local restaurant where you will have lunch.

lunch

Lunch included this afternoon is at a local restaurant. You will have a set menu with one beverage alcoholic of non-alcoholic included, depending on the restaurant. Final restaurant to be determined.

Transfer to Portimão

1 Hour

Continue on a private transfer to Portimão.

Carvoeiro’s Caves Boat Tour

2 Hours

During your boat ride along the breathtaking Algarve coast, you will explore the interior of fascinating caves, encounter hidden beaches, rock formations that will forever unite you in a set of unforgettable experiences that can only be hold when you are this close to nature. On warmer days you may have the opportunity to swim in the crystal clear waters so please remember to pack a swimsuit, towel and a change of clothes.

NH Marina de Portimão (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in the Algarve

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Day 5

Wine Tasting

Today you will experience the rugged beauty and taste the delicious culture of the Algarve. You will be transferred in a private coach to start the day by hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys. After, you will return to the hotel for some leisure time where you'll be able to grab lunch on your own. In the afternoon you'll head to a local farm and vineyard for a tour and tasting. At the end of the tour you will be transferred in a private coach back to your hotel where you will have the rest of the evening at your leisure. Please remember to wear comfortable hiking shoes.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are buffet or continental style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Seven Hanging Valleys Hike

4 Hours

In the morning, take a 40 minute private transfer to the trail head to begin your hike. The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is a natural wonder of imposing cliffs, golden beaches and crystalline waters. Along the 6-kilometre (one-way) trail, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of sea caves, natural arches and rugged valleys carved by sea erosion. The region's biodiversity, which includes unique plant and animal species, adds to the charm of this stunning landscape. Walkers have the opportunity to explore ancient coastal forts and discover the rich history and culture of the area. After your hike, you will transfer back to the hotel. Length: 3.7 miles (one-way) / Linear route / Time required: 2 to 3 hours / Difficulty: Moderate / Starting point: Praia do Vale de Centeanes / Finishing point: Praia da Marinha (2 to 3 hours).

Transfer to the Vineyard

1 Hour

In the afternoon, take a private transfer to the vineyard.

Vineyard Tour & Tasting

1 Hour 30 Mins

When you arrive, you will be taken on a tour of the estate and through the vineyards to learn about the winemaking process. At the end of the tour you will get to try 3 different wines and local tapas. Once your time is complete you will be transferred back to your hotel and will have the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Transfer back to the hotel

1 Hour

Take a private transfer back to the hotel.

NH Marina de Portimão (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in the Algarve

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Day 6

Return to Lisbon & Free Time

Today you will be transferred in a private coach back to Lisbon. You will have the afternoon free to explore the city more at your leisure. In the evening you will meet with the group for a final farewell dinner.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are buffet or continental style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer to Lisbon

4 Hours

Take a private transfer to Lisbon.

dinner

Farewell dinner included at a local restaurant. Your meal tonight will be a set menu consisting of a starter, a main entree and dessert with one alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink depending on the restaurant. Final restaurant to be determined.

HF Fenix Urban (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Lisbon

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 7

Wave Goodbye to Your Newfound Friends!

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of LIS.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are buffet or continental style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Show DetailsHide Details

Physical Activity Level:Adventure

These trips are great if you want to get moving. These itineraries may include scenic hikes and/or exercise. A moderate level of fitness is required to enjoy these trips.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.