The Ria Formosa Natural Park is an ecological eden located in the south of Portugal, just a short drive away from the ever-popular holiday destination of the Algarve.
Thanks to its unique habitat and biodiversity, the area became a National Park in 1987. It is protected by the ICNF (Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas), which safeguards nature and forests. Covering a huge 18,000 hectares, the National Park spreads across roughly 60 km of Algarve coastline, from the towns of Ancao to Tavira.
With its unspoilt feel and huge scope of things for visitors to enjoy, it’s a destination that should be on the itinerary of anyone travelling to the region. Here are three reasons why you should visit this natural paradise:
The wonderful wildlife
The lagoon is home to a huge variety of bird life, including species of herons, egrets and flamingos. In fact, many birds use the lagoon as a stop over while migrating for winter from Europe to Africa.
The area also offers rich marine habitats filled with fish, crabs and other aquatic creatures. It is home to the largest seahorse population in Europe, and it’s not unusual to spot a charming chameleon basking in the Portuguese sunshine along its banks.
The stunning scenery
Stretching along the Algarve’s coastline, the Ria Formosa region boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Europe. Its distinctive landscape is breathtaking, with white-sand beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, and wetlands filled with a kaleidoscope of colours. The 17 barrier islands that make up the national park protect these secluded, white-sand beaches from heavy tourism and overdevelopment.
Activities for all
Visitors can have a go at a number of activities, such as boat rides, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Nature trails also allow hikers, cyclists and horseback riders to explore the natural beauty of the park.
One of the best paths in the Ria Formosa is the ‘Ciclovia de Tavira’. It’s a route that will take you along the Gilão River, through the saltpans and to Cabanas, allowing for stop off’s along the way.
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, there are plenty of restaurants located on the lagoon’s edge offering traditional Portuguese cuisine.
The area also has some excellent bird-watching locations, perfect for all wildlife enthusiasts, and thanks to its location as a migratory corridor for a number of species, there is plenty of bird activity to enjoy all year round.
In short, Ria Formosa Natural Park is a great place to visit for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Algarve. It is a truly unique experience that combines nature, scenery and activities.
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