Explore the west coast

Salema is a small town of Budens parish, located in the municipality of Vila do Bispo, in the most western part of the Algarve. Located at the base of a cliff and part of the Natural Park of Southwest Alentejo and Algarve coast, it is your gateway to explore the west coast of the Algarve - a place that offers many hidden treasures.

The Ponta da Piedade is also a spectacular backdrop for caving and kayak tours where we can set sail ourselves to explore the small islands and hidden beaches that can be found along the coast. Great fun for all ages, kayakers can stop off and fish for their own lunch, before landing at a secluded beach to grill their catch. The spectacular cave forms, including those at famous Benagil, have been shaped over millions of years, with calm waters ensuring an unforgettable trip. 

A combination of great weather, diverse natural habitats and challenging geography make the west Algarve a great cycle destination - especially in the off-peak season, where we can take advantage of the all-year round sunshine. The Costa Vicentina route reveals the hidden secrets of an unexplored coastline, following sandy trails to the secluded Furnas, Figueira and Burgau beaches.

Home to a vibrant surf community, Sagres offers phenomenal conditions for surfing, along with many clubs and surfing schools. It was also the home of Prince Henry the Navigator who built his fortress here over 500 years ago. His navigation school trained the crews of the Portuguese ships that would set out bravely towards Africa. From the remains of these walls, we can stand at the end of their world and wonder at the promise the seas must have held for them.

The village of Salema itself is one of the few communities that still has a local fleet of traditional, brightly-coloured fishing boats. These still launch from the beach into the sea to catch snapper, mackerel, sardines and octopus - that you can taste freshly grilled at Salema’s bars and restaurants that very night.