Salema is a small and isolated fishing village in theAlgarve in Portugal.
To know
Salema is a quiet place to take refuge to avoid the most crowded beaches and the chaos of the most famous and tourist-frequented coastal centers, although it lacks many of the leisure opportunities offered by the most popular resorts in the region.
Historically, Salema has been a small fishing village about halfway between Lagos is Sagres. The main street in the center, Rua de Pescadores, is the place where many fishermen still live who moor their boats on the shore and fix their nets every day. In recent years, the development of new resorts and the construction of new apartments just outside the center have threatened to ruin the atmosphere of Salema which nevertheless remains an isolated, quiet place and an excellent alternative for those seeking some peace compared to the rest ofAlgarve.
How to orient yourself
Salema: full screen map.
How to get
It can be reached on foot from Lagos but it is an option for more determined hikers: it can be reached using a combination of paths and roads along the beach, but the distance is quite long (just under 20 km).
By car
It is just off the N125 from Lagos, and easily accessible by car (although parking can be a problem during the high season months).
On the train
The railway network ofAlgarve ends in Lagos, therefore Salema is inaccessible by train.
By bus
You can also take the bus from Lagos for a few euros.
How to get around
Salema is a very small town, and no matter where you are staying, you can reach the beach, internet cafe and all the major restaurants in no time. The only exception is a large resort and golf course north of the highway (N125), Parque da Floresta, 4km away.
What see
Despite the significant local development of resorts and residential buildings, Salema does not have many tourist attractions. Golf enthusiasts may be interested in Parque da Floresta, an 18-hole course north of the village. Daily routes nearby include Capo Sagres is Lagos, if you have a car or don't mind paying for the bus ticket, where there are several clubs, bars and museums.
Events and parties
What to do
Salema beach is one of the most pleasant and authentic segments of the Portuguese coast. The stretch immediately in front of the village offers umbrellas and services as in many other places in Europe and, while the coast to the west is quite rocky, the sandy beach continues for over a kilometer to the east. Fishing boats line the beach alongside the town, and several boats and buoys are scattered a few hundred meters from the coast, but they add a quaint touch to the setting without taking anything away.
Hiking opportunities are plentiful too - there are cliff-top trails winding along the coastline and small roads leading to little hidden spots scattered across the hills and along the beaches. It is also possible to travel with bicycles along the same roads and paths.
Shopping
Here you mainly buy fish (which is then served by local restaurants). If you are looking for the typical products ofAlgarve it is better to move to larger centers such as Lagos.
How to have fun
Night clubs
There are a few bars on Rua de Pescadores. Try the Portuguese wine.
Where to eat
The cuisine of the local restaurants is excellent, based on fresh fish.
Moderate prices
- Salema Market, Rua de Pescadores.
8:00-20:00. It offers a variety of foods for those in the mood for picnics, including bread, olives, wine, cheeses and other products.
8:00-20:00. It offers a variety of foods for those in the mood for picnics, including bread, olives, wine, cheeses and other products.Average prices
- Or Carapau Frances (Corner Extr. EM537 and Largo de Liberdade). 19:00-22:30. It is a small Greek and Portuguese restaurant right on the seafront, at the intersection of the two main streets of the city. They have a takeaway service. They only accept cash.
- The Atlantico Restaurant & Bar, 1 Ria 28 de Janeiro, ☎ 351 282 695 142. 12:00-00:00. The Atlantico has a short staircase leading to the beach. Excellent cuisine and the restaurant has one of the best-stocked bars in town.
- Restaurante O Lourenco, Rua 28 deJaneiro, ☎ 351 282-698-622. Good fish and good service.
High prices
- Mira Mar Restaurant, Travessa Mira Mar 6, ☎ 351 919 560 339. 12:00-00:00. Mira Mar is a more expensive but useful proposition, located at the base of Rua de Pescadores, near the beach. Their white fish is quite tasty, and the bar makes great sangria.
Where stay
The number of apartments and resorts has grown in recent years, but there are still some smaller, more authentic places to stay. Out of season it is possible to find accommodation with some residents.
Average prices
- Pension a Mare, At Maré, Praia de Salema, ☎ 351 282 695 165.
50/90 €. This small group of apartments and rooms is located on a hill overlooking the city center, right on the main road into the city and above the bus stop. Balconies and breakfast are included in the stay, fully furnished, well maintained and very welcoming accommodation. - Residencial Salema hotels, R. 28 De Janeiro and Praia Da Salema, ☎ 351 282 695 328. 50/80 €. The large building just off the beach and behind the Atlantic is hard to miss. The location and views are great.
50/90 €. This small group of apartments and rooms is located on a hill overlooking the city center, right on the main road into the city and above the bus stop. Balconies and breakfast are included in the stay, fully furnished, well maintained and very welcoming accommodation.Safety
How to keep in touch
Around
Go west along the N125 to another small town, Vila do Bispo, before continuing to Cape Sagres. Going east along N125 will take you to Lagos, from where you can continue north to explore the west coast of the Portugal or continue east by road or rail for the rest of theAlgarve.
