RIA FORMOSA, Algarve
Ria Formosa in the Algarve is 18,000 hectares of lagoons, marshland, woodlands, islets, dunes, sandy beaches, saltpans and wetlands of international importance. This Natural Park extends on 60 km along the Algarve coast between Quinta do Lago and Manta Rota and is made up of 5 barrier islands and 2 peninsulas.
All those who love the sun and ocean, will encounter genuine paradises in the islands located in the Ria Formosa estuary. From west to east there are islands of Faro, Barreta, Culatra, Armona and Tavira with extensive stretches of sand.
Some of the quietest and biggest beaches in the Algarve are located on the sandbank islands of Ilha da Cultura and Ilha da Armona.
RIA FORMOSA WILDLIFE
Ria Formosa, Algarve is a home of many bird species and haven for wildlife attracted by diversity of its eco-systems. A paradise for birdwatchers, Ria Formosa is one of the most important areas for aquatic birds in Portugal, hosting on a regular basis more than 20,000 birds during the wintering period. The area is also very important as stop-over point in the migration routes between Europe and Africa.
Traditional activities of the local population living in this area include extraction of salt and gathering of shellfish and bivalves (mussels, oysters, clams, razor). Shellfish farming is a very economic activity in the tidal flats of the Ria Formosa. This extremely hard labour is responsible for nearly 80% of the Portuguese clam exports.
RIA FORMOSA THINGS TO DO
There are countless ways to enjoy its natural beauty, be it following the cycle paths and walking trails, bird-watching tour, or taking a ferry to a pristine sandy beach on one of the islands.
It is worth visiting Cacela Velha, a white town with a notable historical heritage. From the top of the fortress, there are spectacular views of the surroundings – mingling together the blue tones of the estuary, sea and sky.
Recently elected as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, this is one of three protected areas not to be missed during your holidays in the Algarve!
