Alvor Boardwalk is a peaceful circular trajectory with a length of about 5 km, which is a unique opportunity for enjoying the Algarve natural beauty. Joining the Alvor Beach to the Alvor River, this scenic path winds through salt marshes, coastal dunes, and stunning views over rivers. It is a perfect hiking or walking trail, serving as an escape from the crowded spots in the region. From birdwatchers to those who relish nature, there is going to be a place to enjoy in the Algarve.
What is Alvor Boardwalk?
Alvor Boardwalk is composed of a huge network of wooden walks that connect Alvor Beach to the banks of forever looking to reach about 6 km in total length to show the visitors this way in two sides of Alvor: its long expanse of beach and then a more verdant, freshwater marsh area, frequented by many different species of birds. This route is one of several found in the Alvor Natural Reserve - the perfect combination of natural beauty hiking and easily accessible.
This circular route is a combination of wooden boardwalks, gravel roads, and sandy trails, making it ideal for almost any outdoor and active lifestyle, whether families with strollers or experienced hikers.
Where are the Starting Point and the End Point of the Boardwalk?
The boardwalk begins at the car parking lot nearby the wooden fishermen's huts at Alvor and ends at the same location. It is easy to spot by searching "Passadiços de Alvor" in Google Maps. The start point is next to the Complexo Desportivo de Alvor (Alvor sports complex) for easy access.
How Challenging is the Walk?
It is basically an easy stroll along the Alvor Boardwalk, especially if you only go along the boardwalk and gravel road, avoiding the more difficult sandy beach and dune sections. Most of the tour is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly because it is wide with rails and without steps. The only steps that are present lead down to the beach, but there is a ramp for access.
The beach part is not stroller accessible; however, you can carry your child in a front or hiking carrier. We have done this complete loop with our 9-month-old baby, during which we used a Deuter hiking carrier; it worked great for us.
Is the Route well-marked?
Indeed, one can find bright yellow and red strips on the wooden rails along the Alvor Boardwalk. These post markers will guide you through the shape of the loop, which is generally counterclockwise. However, you can walk in the clockwise direction if you wish.
Signs are clear, so there is no fear of losing oneself, as it is easy to follow the entire loop.
How to Get to the Alvor Boardwalk?
The easiest way to access the Alvor Boardwalk is by car, as there is a very spacious parking area at the beginning of the trail. It is free. For townsfolk, the boardwalk is within walking distance from the center of Alvor.
In the absence of a car, public transport buses can be boarded from Lagos or Portimão to Alvor. Uber is a great option to consider, especially for distant lodgers. It usually ends up costing about 17 to 20 Euros from Lagos to Alvor, depending on the time and season.
When is the Best Time for Hiking?
Mornings and evenings are the ideal times for walking the boardwalk, especially in the summer, as there is little shade on the trail. If you are hiking in winter, the prime time for hiking is in the morning, afternoon, or night, as it usually does not rain.
Best Attraction Near your Walk
The Alvor Boardwalk is short, but it is rich with a diversity of scenery and wildlife. It is primarily a pleasure for birdwatchers that winds through saltwater marshes that dot the habitat against various species of marine birds, including flamingos. Autumn and spring are the best times for birdwatching as they are the migratory period.
Besides the great scenic views of Meia Praia, the Old Town of Lagos, Praia do Camilo. The Ponta da Piedade cliffs, each section provides a unique and distinct offer on different landscapes, which offer excellent and perfect opportunities for photography.
Alvor Boardwalk Route Description
Part 1: The Boardwalk (0 km - 1.5 km)
For 1.5 km of this entire stretch, it is on the boardwalk. It is an easy walk and has lots of lookout points for stunning views of the Alvor River, the salt marshes, and the picturesque little harbor with many yachts. It's fully wheelchair and stroller compitable, making this stretch suitable for families.
Part 2: The Beach Part (1.5 km - 3.5 km)
At 1.5 km long, the boardwalk makes a right bend and brings on a gravel road heading a further 500m stretch of sandy road towards the easternmost node in Alvor Beach, which later continues 1 km along the beach. It's very busy but surprisingly quiet even in the peak summer months - an ideal beach stretch to unwind or swim in. It, however, is not accessible for wheelchairs and strollers but is best suited to those who want to walk very close to the water.
Part 3: The Gravel Road (3.5 km – 5 km)
This last part of the tour goes away from the beach and leads one onto a short gravel stretch interspersed by some boardwalks winding through dunes and marshes, returning to the starting point. In this view, it is more panoramic and offers a little less crowded option in the route.
Where To Stay in Alvor?
It is a small town with a laid-back attitude and plenty of options when it comes to hotels and other accommodation types: guest houses, for instance. Quieter than Carvoeiro Albufeira, Alvor is perfect for people who want a calm place. There are many restaurants and cafés where one can sample good local Portuguese cuisine after walking around.
Suppose one wants to go out for some very light but well-spent time hiking. In that case, if they want to get back to nature or are just searching for an enjoyable little walk on a beach, this is the most suitable place in the Algarve to visit. Beauty, spectacular scenery in abundance, a diverse terrain, and rich wildlife, all attached to a perfect boardwalk, make this an essential site to see for anyone visiting this glorious region of Portugal.