Fishing boats, Salema, Algarve

If you’re keen to escape bustling resort towns, the quiet fishing village of Salema in the western Algarve may be worth considering for your Portugal itinerary. Major international publications, including The Guardian and Rick Steves‘ travel guides, have lauded its charms so I went to see what all the fuss is about.

Salema beach and village, viewed from Boca do Rio nature reserve
Salema beach and village, viewed from Boca do Rio nature reserve

Thanks to this publicity, a fresh crop of accommodation options and beachfront restaurants cater for largely seasonal visitors and I suspect that some of Salema’s original appeal may eventually become tainted by these additions.

Salema, a traditional Algarve fishing village

Despite this, the beach remains sandy and golden and the fishing community is still active.

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You can still stroll along quiet cobbled streets and see traditional cottages and quaint local touches.

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Hiking from Salema

Aside from relaxing on the beach and tucking into the catch of the day, the fact that Salema beach and village is ensconced within the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentina Coast Natural Park offers opportunities to stretch your legs and enjoy the natural beauty of the western Algarve.

Now that it’s officially part of the Rota Vicentina Fishermen’s hiking trail, you could do a full day’s hike from Salema to either Sagres or Luz but please read this article about hiking practicalities first and know that these are both quite challenging stages.

A much shorter walking trail crosses the surrounding cliffs to connect Salema with the beach at Boca do Rio.

Sign for Salema on Boca do Rio nature trail
Sign for Salema on Boca do Rio nature trail

Although I did half of it, I haven’t completed this short walk – I drove to Boca do Rio and walked along the cliff tops but didn’t have time to hike all the way to Salema and back to my car that day. If you’re staying for longer, it would make for a pleasant excursion, especially in spring when the wildflowers are at their best.

Boca Do Rio, Algarve, Portugal.
Boca Do Rio, Algarve, Portugal.

Boca do Rio Nature Reserve

I discovered this hidden gem by accident after stopping to take a look at Burgau beach. As I continued to head west towards Salema, brown signs piqued my curiosity and led me to the car park at Boca do Rio. This was in April and apart from the occupants of a few camper vans, the beach was quiet.

Since I hadn’t planned on this detour, I knew I couldn’t spend long on this unspoiled Algarve beach but I was intrigued by the walking trail leading off to the right. I’m so glad I chose to follow it; the wildflowers were gorgeous.

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The coastal and inland views from the top of the cliff are worth the short climb and the slight tingle of fear. Do heed the warnings to stay away from the cliff edge – it is alarmingly thin in places and full of holes.

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Practicalities

More details about the Boca do Rio walking trail, flora and fauna.

If you visit Boca do Rio beach, note that there were no facilities (i.e. café or toilets).

Where to stay in and around Salema

One thing to bear in mind when choosing the most suitable accommodation in Salema is the hills. While there are some properties that are not far from the beach, others are nestled in the cliffs above the village. The slight effort of walking uphill is likely to be rewarded by a better view.

You’re likely to need a car if you plan to explore the area beyond what’s within walking distance so free parking is a bonus. See my car rental tips before booking.

Casa Praia Mar is a small modern guesthouse with a pool that’s just a couple of minutes walk from Salema’s beach and restaurants. Some rooms have balconies and kitchen facilities and there’s free parking! Grab a room with a view

Click to see other Salema hotels and apartments

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Why visit Salema, a traditional fishing village in a nature reserve in western Algarve, Portugal
Why visit Salema, Portugal
Salema beach Portugal. Traditional Algarve fishing village
Salema Portugal. Algarve fishing village

4 Comments

  1. Super helpful post! We are looking at Salema for a few nights during this summer’s Portugal trip!

  2. I enjoyed visiting your webiste. I rarely leave comments, but

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  3. Delighted to see that you too have discovered the charms of Salema. Having read about it in the Guardian newspaper (UK) I ventured down there last Autumn to take a look. I think this far-western section of the Algarve (heading west from Lagos) remains relatively undiscovered and is all the better for it. I recommend Salema specifically to younger families as the beach is quite calm here. You’re right about the steep hill and I therefore recommend staying somewhere that offers a free beach shuttle bus!

    1. Author

      Good thinking, Justin. If you want to email me ([email protected]) with some specific properties you know of, we can discuss this further if you like. You’ll see I’ve also done more on the Silver Coast since we last exchanged emails…

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