Hidden cultural treasures

Salema is one of the great undiscovered treasures of the Algarve, a serene and tranquil fishing village where time seems to have stood still for generations. Inspired by the promise of its secrets, here are some ideas for your break in Salema to help you off the beaten track. 

Lagos is one of the Algarve’s most important historic points of interest. Its 17th-century marine fortress once played a vital role in securing the Algarve from invaders, while those climbing the 182 steps to the Ponta da Piedade will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the bay that launched the Age of Discovery. Many centuries ago, daring voyages to the farthest-flung parts of the world would have set sail from here into uncharted seas. 

In Aljezur, you will find the secluded beach of Odeceixe as well as a town filled with history and culture. Odeceixe is one of the Algarve’s best kept secrets, with wide, empty beaches, hidden coves, and spectacular views. In Aljezur itself, you will discover an 18th century-built art museum, a 10th century Moorish castle (located on the site of an iron age fort) and the ruins of the Fortaleza de Arrifana.

This fortress was built in the 16th century in order to protect the coast from the frequent attacks by Moorish pirates. It stands on the site of an earlier medieval convent, which, legend has it, is supposed to have housed the mortal remains of São Vicente. The unusual polygonal design opens up from a gateway crowned by the royal shield and which once had a drawbridge. Hundreds of years later the building still stands, in fact, visitors today will find a lighthouse there, built in 1904, that is still in operation today.

Located on Cape Sagres,  the “Fortaleza de Sagres' owes its origin to Henry the Navigator, who first built a village here in the 1400s. One of the most significant attractions of Fortaleza de Sagres is undoubtedly the rose of winds, a sundial that many believe was used by the nautical school that once trained navigators here. A place of deep historical and symbolic value, the monument offers visitors the opportunity to revisit a glorious age of discoveries and imagine the incredible voyages that set off into the unknown waters beyond.