Lovers of the outdoors are drawn to the remote and laid-back Sagres. The landscapes are dramatic with huge cliffs carved out by pounding waves and landscapes kept barren by the strong prevailing winds. It is a surfers paradise and a fantastic area for hiking, cycling and bird watching. The Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e da Costa Vicentina is one of Portugal’s largest natural reserves. The natural environment has been almost untouched. The rugged rocks of the steep coast are interrupted by small sandy bays and the surging swell from the Atlantic is spectacular. The landscape is rich in flora and fauna. Those not wanting to tackle the masterful waves can find a pristine, sheltered cove. The glorious sunshine is renowned, and the sunsets are spectacular.
You can walk to the stunning Praia do Martinhal beach in minutes from Villa Salimao III. The town centre is just as close, with cosy cafes, bars and restaurants, a lovely market, a good variety of shops and plenty of places to rent watersports equipment and bikes. Praia do Martinhal has lovely golden sand. More sheltered and family-friendly if you have young children is Praia da Mareta. Beach bars and restaurants line the bay as well as watersports companies. The small and sheltered Praia da Baleeira is next to the harbour. Praia do Tonel faces the best of the prevailing winds and is a great spot for surfing and kitesurfing.
Golf fans will be delighted by the courses nearby. The closest are Espiche, Palmares, Boavista and Morgado. The two championship courses at Amendoeira Resort, designed by Nick Faldo and Christy O’Connor, are one hour from the villa.
The Sagres fortress offers a delightful cliffside walk inside the fort, a lighthouse, cave and a large wind compass. It is close to Praia da Mareta and enjoys lovely sea views. Cabo Sao Vicente is a famous spot which claims to be the most south-westerly point of mainland Europe. It is a steep, windswept headland with an iconic working lighthouse towering above the cliffs. There is a small museum and gift shop attached to the lighthouse. The waters around the cape are rich in marine wildlife with sightings of sea otters and dolphins. Birdwatchers enjoy the area. When you stand looking out over the cliffs towards the vast expanse of ocean, you will truly appreciate the splendour of this amazing spot.