Ria Formosa National Park, The Algarve

From the air, the Formosa Lagoon National Park is a magnificent patchwork of blue lagoons, white beaches and green islands. Covering a 60 km stretch on Portugal’s southern border with the Atlantic ocean, it is formed by 5 barrier islands running parallel to the ocean, protecting shallow, warm, brackish lagoons that display an amazing amount of wild and plant life.

It is especially important to bird life: many rare species breed here, others over-winter here and it also provides rest and replenishment for migratory birds. The fertile environment also serves as a breeding ground for all kind of fish and seafood. And it is so easy to visit.  Ferries from Olhão to the beautiful barrier island beaches pass through it, and to make even more of the experience, join one of the expert guides who provide boat trips from Olhão with themes such as birdwatching, the history of fishing and the barrier islands. There is even a silent, CO2 free solar boat to make the experience all the more ecologically satisfying. There is also a range of choices if you prefer to explore on your own: charter a fishing boat or a sail boat, on which you can even have sailing lessons, and for fun for the whole family one can hire pedal boats and kayaks.  
 
The park’s headquarters just east of Olhão is an excellent spot for visitors to orient themselves about the region. There is a well laid out walking tour where different aspects of the lagoon environment are explained: the salt marshes with their salt production facilities, the dunes, pine woodlands and traditional agriculture. Some traditional buildings, including a tidal mill and a traditional farmhouse have been restored, and there are even some Roman ruins. A traditional, restored tuna transport boat is used for trips around the lagoon and don’t miss the kennels where webfooted Portuguese Waterdogs are bred.

You’ll be enchanted with the unique attractions of the Formosa Lagoon Natural Park.