Some of the most stunning Algarve's boardwalks

Ponta da Piedade boardwalk

The Algarve is known for its breathtaking coastline and picturesque towns, but some of its best views are found on its scenic boardwalks. These wooden paths make it easy and safe to explore cliff tops, coastal dunes, and protected wetlands. Here's a look at some of the Algarve’s boardwalks you should add to your itinerary.

1. Ponta da Piedade boardwalk

Perhaps the most photographed spot in the Algarve, Ponta da Piedade joins dramatic cliffs with crystal-clear waters. Its wooden trail runs from the lighthouse to viewpoints overlooking sea stacks, arches, and hidden caves.

• Location: Lagos.

• Length: Around 2 kilometres.

• Getting there: From Lagos city centre, it’s a 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk. Parking is available near the lighthouse.

• Fauna and flora: The coastal cliffs are home to rock samphire and sea lavender. Birds such as kestrels and peregrine falcons nest in the rugged formations.

• Curiosities: The name “Piedade” (Piety) dates back to ancient fishermen who built a shrine here to ask for divine protection. Boat trips below the cliffs offer a different perspective of the same scenery you walk above.

2. Alvor boardwalk 

Stretching across dunes, salt marshes, and beaches, the Alvor Boardwalk is one of the longest in the Algarve. It connects the Alvor estuary to the Meia Praia area, offering panoramic views of the Ria de Alvor — a paradise for birdwatchers.

• Location: Alvor, Portimão.

• Length: Around 6 kilometres (round trip).

• Getting there: From Portimão, follow the EN125 towards Alvor. Parking is available near Praia de Alvor or by the Fishermen’s Huts (Cais dos Pescadores).

• Fauna and flora: This is a protected wetland and an important stopover for migratory birds. You may spot flamingos, herons, and ospreys. The dunes are covered with beach grass, sea daffodils, and other hardy coastal species.

• Curiosities: The boardwalk allows access to several beaches, including Praia dos Três Irmãos. It’s wheelchair-friendly and ideal for families or cyclists.

3. Barranco do Demo boardwalk (Monchique)

High in the Serra de Monchique, this boardwalk offers a different Algarve — lush, green, and cooler. Built to protect the fragile mountain ecosystem, it winds through cork oaks, chestnuts, and ferns, with magnificent views of the southern plains.

• Location: Fóia, Monchique Mountains (Serra de Monchique).
  Length: Approx. 1.8 kilometres.

• How to get there: From Monchique village, follow the road to Fóia (EN266-3). There’s a small car park near the trailhead.

• Fauna and flora: You may spot Bonelli’s eagles, small reptiles, and butterflies. Native vegetation includes heather, strawberry trees (medronheiros), and laurel.

• Curiosities: The name Barranco do Demo (“Devil’s Ravine”) comes from local legends — according to folklore, mysterious sounds echo through the valley on stormy nights.

• Tip: Visit early in the morning for the best light and a cooler walk. Afterward, try Monchique’s local products — honey, medronho brandy, and cured ham.

4. Carvoeiro boardwalk 

Starting at the Nossa Senhora da Encarnação Fortress and leading to the Algar Seco rock formations, this short but stunning boardwalk hugs the cliffs of Carvoeiro. The contrast between the turquoise sea and golden limestone is unbelievable.

• Getting there: You can reach Carvoeiro easily by car from Lagoa (about 10 minutes). Parking is available near the fortress or in the village centre.

• Fauna and flora: Mediterranean vegetation dominates the area — rosemary, thyme, and dwarf palms — attracting butterflies and lizards. Along the cliffs, seabirds such as gulls and cormorants can be spotted.

• Curiosities: The Algar Seco caves, accessible at the end of the boardwalk, reveal fascinating rock shapes sculpted by the sea. Sunset here is among the most spectacular in the Algarve.

• Location: Carvoeiro, Lagoa.

• Length: Approx. 600 metres.

Salgados boardwalk

5. Salgados boardwalk

The Salgados Boardwalk is a gentle, scenic trail crossing dunes and lagoons that link two municipalities: Silves and Albufeira. It’s one of the Algarve’s richest areas for birdlife and a peaceful spot for nature lovers.

• Location: Between Armação de Pêra (Silves) and Praia dos Salgados (Albufeira).

• Length: Approx. 2.5 kilometres.

• How to get there: Accessible from either Praia Grande (Armação de Pêra) or Praia dos Salgados (Albufeira). Parking is available at both ends.

• Fauna and flora: Expect to see purple herons, spoonbills, black-winged stilts, and even flamingos. Reeds, saltwort, and sea lavender surround the freshwater lagoon.

• Curiosities: The Salgados Lagoon (Lagoa dos Salgados) is part of the Natura 2000 network and a favourite among birdwatchers. Visit early morning or sunset for the best light and sightings.

• Tip: The route is flat, perfect for prams and wheelchairs, and features several viewing platforms for photos or picnics.

6. Quinta do Lago boardwalk

Crossing the Ria Formosa Natural Park, this boardwalk is an elegant mix of nature and sophistication. It links the luxury resort of Quinta do Lago to the beach, passing over tidal lagoons and salt marshes.

• Location: Quinta do Lago, Loulé.
  Length: Approx. 3 kilometres.

• Getting there: Access is easy from Almancil or Loulé. Park near the “The Shack” restaurant or Quinta do Lago Beach.

• Fauna and flora: The Ria Formosa is a Ramsar-protected wetland. You may see flamingos, black-winged stilts, and even chameleons hiding among the pine trees and shrubs. Plants include reeds, sea lavender, and the aromatic rockrose.

• Curiosities: The wooden bridge that crosses the lagoon is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in Europe, offering an unparalleled view of the estuary at sunset.

7. Cacela Velha boardwalk (Passadiço da Fábrica)

This lesser-known path reveals one of the Algarve’s hidden treasures: the tranquil village of Cacela Velha and the stunning Ria Formosa lagoon. The wooden walkway descends gently toward Praia da Fábrica, often listed among the most beautiful beaches in the world.

• Location: Cacela Velha, Vila Real de Santo António.

• Length: Around 1 kilometre.

• Getting there: Take the EN125 to Vila Nova de Cacela and follow the signs to Cacela Velha. There is limited parking near the church square.

• Fauna and flora: The salt marshes are home to fiddler crabs, egrets, and spoonbills. Sea lavender and glasswort add seasonal colours to the landscape.

• Curiosities: At low tide, you can walk across the sandbank to the beach; at high tide, small boats ferry visitors. The silence and view over the lagoon make this one of the most peaceful spots in the Algarve.

Each of these boardwalks offers a unique way to experience the Algarve — from rugged cliffs to serene lagoons. Whether you visit for photography, birdwatching, or a quiet walk, remember to respect the local environment and stay on the marked paths.

Enjoy your walk, and let nature set the pace.