Stepping onto the golden sands of this Algarve beach, I was struck by its tranquillity. No rowdy crowds, blaring music or litter, just the soothing sound of waves gently caressing my feet. Salema, a sleepy fishing village in the Algarve, seems to have slipped under the radar of international tourists who usually descend on Portugal's southern coast for their sun-soaked holidays.
Nestled away from the bustling tourist hotspots of Albufeira and Lagos, Salema offers a more serene retreat in the western Algarve. With its whitewashed houses, vibrant bougainvillaea vines and narrow cobbled streets, it's a charming contrast to the azure blue waters, seafood eateries and lively cocktail bars. Read more: Woman's 'genius' hack takes Mary Berry's Victoria sponge to the next level Read more: I've eaten no sugar or ultra-processed food for six months - now there are three foods I can't live without Its rich history as a small fishing village is still evident today, with wooden boats regularly setting sail to catch sea bass, bream, octopus, sardines and mackerel.
The local community maintains a strong bond with the sea, with fishing remaining an integral part of daily life, complemented by a sophisticated tourism offering. Historical artefacts such as old fishing nets and traditional wooden boats can still be spotted along the beachfront. If you're an early riser, you can observe local fishermen unloading their morning catch before repairing their nets and taking a well-deserved rest.
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