The landscapes of Sagres are dominated by the power of nature. The huge cliffs are pounded by the forceful Atlantic waves and strong winds. Sandy coves are nestled behind huge rocks making for a very dramatic, spectacular coastline. The untouched Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e da Costa Vicentina is one of Portugal’s largest Nature Reserves offering many hiking and cycling paths and a huge variety of fauna and flora.
Villa Salimao IV is situated within walking distance of the wonderful Praia do Martinhal beach and Sagres town centre which is laid-back and chilled. Sagres attracts many surfers who adore the thrilling waves as well as tourists that love the outdoors and the beautiful Portuguese sunshine. There are cool cafes, bars and restaurants, a colourful market, many rental shops and surf schools.
Praia da Mareta has golden sand, a lifeguard during the summer and is more sheltered with calmer waves. It is the favourite beach for young families and is served by quite a number of beach cool bars and restaurants. Praia do Martinhal has a long stretch of sandy beach with medium-sized waves, perfect for jumping over or learn to surf. Praia da Baleeira is small and sheltered, and Praia do Tonel probably has the most challenging waves. Further north, Praia do Beliche is an excellent surfing beach.
There are some excellent golf courses within a short distance of Villa Salimao IV. They are all 18 hole courses and between par 71 and par 73. The courses at Espiche, Palmares, Boavista and Morgado, are all popular and within 45 minutes of the villa. The two championship courses at Amendoeira Resort, designed by the legendary Nick Faldo and Christy O’Connor, are roughly one hour from the villa.
Most visitors to Sagres head for the fortress on the top of a headland to the south of Praia da Mareta, where there is a delightful cliffside walk inside the fort, a lighthouse, cave and a large wind compass. Also very popular is the most westerly point of mainland Europe, Cabo Sao Vicente. Looking out to sea past the iconic lighthouse is spectacular. A delightful 6km circular hike passes Cabo de Sa Vicente, Telheiro Beach, the hamlet of Santo Antonio and Beliche.