Alvor Boardwalk Algarve: A Serene Coastal Trail for Nature Lovers

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 5 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 easy accessibility.

This circular route combines wooden boardwalks, gravel roads, and sandy trails, making it ideal for a variety of outdoor and active lifestyles, from families with strollers to 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 starting point is located next to the Complexo Desportivo de Alvor (Alvor Sports Complex) for easy access.

How Challenging is the Walk?

It is essentially an easy stroll along the Alvor Boardwalk, especially if you stick to the boardwalk and gravel road, avoiding the more challenging sandy beach and dune sections. Most of the tour is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly, as it is wide with rails and features no 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 completed this loop with our 9-month-old baby, using a Deuter hiking carrier, which 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 risk of getting lost, as it is easy to follow the entire loop.

Getting Alvor Boardwalk

The easiest way to access the Alvor Boardwalk is by car, as a spacious parking area is located 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 in Lagos or Portimão to travel to Alvor. Uber is a great option to consider, especially for distant lodgers. It usually costs around 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 Time of Year

Late Spring (April–June) and Early Autumn (September–October) are the ideal seasons:

• 🌤️ Mild temperatures (18–26°C)

• 🌸 Blooming wildflowers in spring

• 🐦 Migratory birds passing through the Alvor estuary

• 😌 Fewer crowds than peak summer

Avoid mid-summer (July–August) unless you're going very early or late in the day — it gets hot (30°C+) and the boardwalk offers limited shade.

🕒 Best Time of Day

• Early Morning (7–9 AM):

  • Coolest temperatures

  • Peaceful and quiet

  • Soft morning light for photography

• Golden Hour (5–7 PM, depending on season):

  • Warm, beautiful lighting

  • Slight sea breeze makes walking pleasant

  • Stunning sunset views over the dunes and beach

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 to observe the winds that sweep through saltwater marshes that dot the habitat, attracting 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 offer a unique and distinct experience with each section providing a different landscape, providing excellent 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 features numerous lookout points offering stunning views of the Alvor River, the salt marshes, and the picturesque harbor, which is home to many yachts. It's fully wheelchair and stroller-compatible, 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 leads to a gravel road, which extends a further 500m to a sandy stretch of beach, located towards the easternmost node in Alvor Beach. From there, it 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)

The final part of the tour departs from the beach and leads one onto a short gravel stretch, interspersed with boardwalks that wind 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 atmosphere and numerous options for hotels and other accommodations, including guesthouses. Quieter than Carvoeiro, Albufeira, and Alvor, these areas are perfect for those seeking a calm retreat. 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, diverse terrain, and rich wildlife, all set against a perfect boardwalk, make this an essential site to see for anyone visiting this glorious region of Portugal.