A place close to my heart
Since I moved to the Algarve, the boardwalk between Salgados Beach and Galé has become one of my absolute favourite places. Salgados Beach is where we had our wedding ceremony, so it will always hold a very special place in my heart. Every time I walk here, it brings back beautiful memories.
It’s a place you can enjoy year-round. In summer, it’s lively and full of energy. In winter, it’s peaceful and quiet. But if I had to choose my favourite time, it would probably be spring sunsets. The days are already warm, everything feels fresh, and it’s not yet crowded. The light over the lagoon at that time of day is just magical.
I remember how excited I was waiting for the boardwalk extension to Praia Grande. And then I was even more thrilled when I discovered they were going to continue it all the way to Armação de Pêra. That final section was completed at the beginning of 2024, and it has completely transformed the experience.
Now you can walk, run, or cycle all the way from Armação de Pêra to Albufeira. In many parts of the Algarve, pavements are poorly built or blocked by parked cars, which makes it frustrating for walkers. This wooden walkway is such a great alternative. It’s safe, flat, and enjoyable. You can start from different points along the route, as there are several parking areas, and you can walk it in either direction.
Discovering Lagoa dos Salgados
The walkway runs alongside Lagoa dos Salgados, one of the most iconic wetlands in the Algarve. This small coastal lagoon lies between Armação de Pêra and Albufeira and has become one of the most visited birdwatching sites in the region.
More than 150 bird species are recorded here every year. Some are common, others are rare or sensitive. It’s recognised as an Important Bird Area by the Sociedade Portuguesa para o Estudo das Aves and BirdLife International, and there is a proposal by the Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas to classify it as a Natural Reserve.
Birdlife here varies with the season and water levels, making every visit slightly different. From the parking area, you can explore two main sections of the lagoon.
The southern side follows the wooden boardwalk and is very easy to access. Here you can usually see ducks, coots, grebes, and moorhens. The small islands in the lagoon attract resting gulls, and during migration periods, you may even spot terns passing through. In autumn and winter, large flocks of ducks gather on the water, sometimes in impressive numbers.
The western side, near the viewing barrier, is especially good for wading birds. Depending on the season, you might see flamingos, spoonbills, ibis, or marsh harriers flying low over the reeds. It’s always worth bringing binoculars if you have them, but even without them, you can enjoy plenty of wildlife.
The lagoon is not only important for birds. It also has significant botanical value, including the Algarve endemic plant Linaria algarviana, which grows in this unique habitat.
Salgados Golf Course
Just behind Praia dos Salgados, on the eastern edge of the lagoon, you’ll find the Salgados Golf Course. Opened in 1994, this 18-hole course is particularly suited to technically skilled players who appreciate playing in a natural setting.
Almost every hole runs alongside the lagoon, which makes it quite unique. It’s not just a golf course — it’s an experience surrounded by water, birds, and open skies.
Food & Refreshments along the way
Of course, especially during the warmer months, you’ll probably want to stop for a drink or something to eat along the way.
If you start in Armação de Pêra, Pedro’s Bar is close to the beginning of the path and perfect for a quick refreshment. As you continue, there are beach restaurants at Praia Grande and Praia dos Salgados where you can sit down and relax.
At the Galé end, you’ll find several lovely places near the beach. My absolute favourite is Pedras Amarelas. It’s simple, relaxed, and right by the sea. You can enjoy fresh fish and seafood while looking out over the ocean. For me, it’s the perfect spot for a long, easy lunch or dinner, especially at sunset.
Easy and accessible
The main boardwalk route is around 5 kilometres long. Thanks to its flat and well-maintained surface, it’s suitable for all fitness levels. It’s also accessible to prams and wheelchairs, making it inclusive and family-friendly.
Whether you come for exercise, birdwatching, photography, cycling, or simply to clear your head and enjoy the views, this is one of those places in the Algarve that never disappoints.
For me, it’s not just a walkway — it’s a place filled with memories, nature, and that special Algarve light that keeps drawing you back again and again.