We are at the Algarve, which is so sun-kissed, spectacular and touristy that we do not discover it. We are looking for corners that are not yet so overrun. We settle between Sagres and Lagos at Eco Camp Salema. A bit of jungle with tall, shady trees, palm trees, hibiscus, bougainvillea and cheerfully chirping birds. After the first starry night, we find the hot (!) shower and stay. In the morning, we sit in the sun at breakfast, enjoying the last rays of sunshine on the beach in the former fishing village of Salema, one kilometre away, until 7pm in the evening. And we spend the last hours of the day drinking draught beer at the bar. There is a supermarket within easy reach. Our friendly Portuguese neighbour in the tent next to us plays the guitar and we chat about music and history. The starter for tonight’s dinner comes spontaneously from the neighbour one plot away. We write the report in the co-working space. Everything your heart desires, unobtrusive, and much more that we do not need. Perfect for a long-term stay with location tours. https://www.salemaecocamp.com/en/
Salema beach is stunning. The water is very refreshing. The parasol is indispensable. Astrid wants to go on a boat trip to watch the dolphins. In the evening sun, a pod of dolphins appears in the distance. Easy to see (but too far away for our camera). We can save ourselves the extra boat trip and seasickness. The next morning, we take the bus to Lagos. The bus does not come. Fortunately, we can rely on our bikes. We cycle. The money for the bus ticket is well spent on the guided kayak tour through the caves of Lagos.
Europe is small after all. Familiar faces in Lagos. After a chat, we set off. At half past three, we head out onto the water.
With a decent swell, we pass the chic beaches of Lagos. We paddle through tiny passages and explore a few caves.
We are towed back to the harbour in single file by a motorboat – very stylish. Suddenly, a pod of dolphins appears nearby. The boatman steers towards them and we get to observe the dolphins free of charge.
Even without dolphins, the kayak tour in Lagos is a great experience. Well organised, friendly, enthusiastic guides and the trip into the caves is an adventure in itself. https://lagoskayakexplores.com/
Because we cannot just lie around being lazy, we also cycle westwards, via Sagres to the south-western tip of Europe. Cabo de São Vicente presents itself in the rare mode of blue skies and calm winds. We enjoy it.
Travel tip for the Algarve: Cycling along the Rota Vicentina:
