Upon setting foot on the serene golden sands of this Algarve beach, I was immediately taken by its peaceful atmosphere. There were no crowds, loud music or litter in sight, just the calming sound of waves gently lapping at my feet. Salema, a quaint fishing village tucked away in the Algarve, appears to have evaded the attention of international tourists who typically flock to Portugal's southern coast for their sun-drenched holidays.
Situated away from the bustling tourist hubs of Albufeira and Lagos, Salema provides a more tranquil getaway in the western Algarve. With its pristine white houses, vibrant bougainvillaea vines and narrow cobblestone streets, it offers a delightful contrast to the crystal blue waters, seafood restaurants and lively cocktail bars. Its rich heritage as a small fishing village is still palpable today, with wooden boats regularly embarking on trips to catch sea bass, bream, octopus, sardines and mackerel.
The local community maintains a strong connection with the sea, with fishing remaining a vital part of daily life, supplemented by a refined tourism offering. Historical relics such as old fishing nets and traditional wooden boats can still be seen along the beachfront. If you're an early bird, you can watch local fishermen unloading their morning haul before mending their nets and taking a well-earned break, reports Wales Online .
The heart of Salema is its breathtaking blue flag beach, Praia da Salema. This expansive stretch of soft golden sand, b.