A labyrinth of canals, islands and marshes, the Ria Formosa is a unique wetland stretching along the Algarve coast. We enjoyed discovering this exceptional ecosystem , where turquoise waters meander between islands populated bymigratory birds. Classified as a Natural Park since 1987, the Ria Formosa is home to remarkable biodiversity and a long tradition of salt extraction and fishing. Here you can discover an authentic fishing village and magnificent unspoilt beaches.
In this article, you’ll find our photos and tips for making the most of your visit to this must-see natural park!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Why visit the Ria Formosa?
Is the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve worth a visit? Our opinion:
Absolutely! This protected wetland of international importance is well worth exploring. We were amazed by this labyrinth of canals, islands and marshes, home to exceptional biodiversity. This is one of the best activities in Faro!
Classified as a Nature Park in 1987, the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve is a unique ecosystem dating back thousands of years. This exceptional site plays a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and the local economy, while offering an immersive experience in the heart of the Algarve’s unspoilt nature. In fact, the Nature Reserve is home to some of Faro’s most beautiful beaches.
Our favorite moments
We particularly enjoyed exploring the Ria Formosa:
- Observe the many migratory birds
- Boating between the barrier islands
- The discovery of authentic, unspoilt islands, their magnificent beaches and their inhabitants, authentic Portuguese people attached to their land and its traditions.
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How to get to the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve: access and map
Where is the Ria Formosa?
Here is a map to help you find your way:
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN THE Algarve
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
How to get there?
There are several options for visiting the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve:
- You can opt for a boat trip from Faro.
That’s what we’ve done, and it’s the starting point that offers the most options. To do this, you’ll need to go to Faro Marina, from where the crossing takes between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on which island you’re on. Here is a selection of excursions from Faro:- A 3-hour excursion to discover 2 islands in the Ria Formosa – France activity details and booking
- A kayaking adventure in the waters of the Ria Formosa! – activity details and booking
- Admire the beauty of Ria Formosa on a solar-powered boat tour – activity details and booking
- Do you love nature? Opt for an excursion dedicated to birdwatching in the Nature Park. activity details and booking
- You can opt for a boat trip from Olhão
To do this, you’ll need to go to the Port of Olhão for a 20-minute crossing to the islands of the Ria Formosa. Here is a selection of excursions from Olhão:- A full-day visitto 3 islands in the Ria Formosa activity details and booking
- Half-day cruise to explore 2 islands in the Ria Formosa Natural Park. activity details and booking
- Excursion along the islands of the nature reserve with barbecue on board the boat and paddle at your disposal. activity details and booking
- You may also prefer to visit on foot or by 2-wheeler.
To find the hike that’s right for you, click here. Alternatively, you can opt for:- A bike trip from Faro through the magnificent Ria Formosa – activity details and booking
- A segway tour of the Nature Reserve trails, departing from Praia de Faro. activity details and booking
Parking
If you’re leaving from Faro, the nearest covered parking lot is the “Saba da Pontinha” parking lot, about a 10-minute walk from the Marina. Otherwise, a few paying parking spaces are available in front of the fire station, Rue Cmte. Francisco Manuel5min walk.
WHERE TO STAY IN Faro
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Best apartment hotel
Amália Boutique Suites & Studios – See prices, photos and availability
Best boutique-hotel
Roots Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
Best luxury hotel
3HB Faro – See prices, photos and availability
Useful tips: duration, schedules, difficulties…
Best time to visit and prices
The Ria Formosa can be visited all year round thanks to the Algarve’s pleasant climate, with particularly mild weather from May to October. We have found, however, that autumn and winter offer a quieter experience, ideal for migratory birdwatching and enjoying the almost deserted paradise beaches.
Prices vary according to the tour chosen, but you should expect to pay between €20 and €45 for a half-day visit.
Length of visit and main difficulties
Allow half a day to make the most of your trip to the Ria Formosa. Boat trips generally last between 3 and 4 hours.
Exploring the nature reserve was difficult for people with reduced mobility, due to uneven ground (sand, lawns, pebbles…), steps and inconvenient pontoons for getting on and off the boat. However, some of the tours listed above may offer solutions or tours adapted for people with reduced mobility. We recommend that you read the excursion descriptions carefully, or go to the Port of Faro where you can meet the organizers directly.
Visiting with children
Your children will love the adventure of the Ria Formosa, the promise of an unforgettable day! They’re sure to love the idea of a boat trip, and you can show them many species of birds, including flamingos and herons. Not forgetting breaks to play in the sand and swim in the ocean.
Catering and Facilities
If you’re going away for the day, you’ll need to pack a picnic! Otherwise, you can eat out on the islands:Ilha Deserta has a single restaurant, whileIlha da Culatra has a number of small establishments. However, they are only open in high season.
If you’re setting off on an afternoon excursion from Faro, we recommend that you have lunch in one of the city’s best restaurants in town.
FUN in the Algarve: activities
Caves and cliffs by boat
Kayak Tours
Dolphin watching
Jeep tour
Exploring the unspoilt coastline of the Ria Formosa
The Ria Formosa stretches for 60km along the Algarve coast. We enjoyed discovering this natural labyrinth of canals, islands and marshes, constantly changing with the winds, currents and tides. You’ll discover a unique ecosystem where mudflats rub shoulders with sand dunes.
This wetland of international importance is home to traditional activities such as salt extraction and shellfish harvesting, testifying to the harmony between man and nature. If you’d like to learn more about the Algarve’s maritime history, we recommend a visit to Faro’s Maritime Museum!
Wildlife observation in the Nature Park
The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a veritable sanctuary for biodiversity. We were lucky enough to observe some of the 30,000 birds that visit the reserve every year, including 20,000 during the wintering period. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise!
You’ll be able to spot emblematic species such as the sultana hen, a symbol of the park found nowhere else in Portugal. The diversity of habitats, between lagoons, salt marshes and dunes, is also home to numerous reptiles, including chameleons. This wealth of wildlife makes the Ria Formosa a major ecological corridor between Europe and Africa.
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DiscoverIlha Deserta: a wild island with endless beaches
Ilha Deserta, one of the 5 barrier islands in the Ria Formosa. We loved its wild, unspoilt character. It offers a privileged setting where silence is disturbed only by the sound of the waves and the beaches that stretch for almost 10km to Cabo de Santa Maria, Portugal’s southernmost point. We were struck by the purity of the site, where the white sand contrasts with the blue waters of the park. If you like your getaways far from the hustle and bustle, you’ll love the feeling of being alone in the world (perhaps a little less so in high season).
You can explore this (almost) deserted oasis on foot, following the discovery trail through the dunes. Or simply enjoy the crystal-clear waters on one of its 2 beaches: Praia da Ilha Deserta and Praia da Barreta. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might just spot one of the 300 species of birds that can be found here. Ilha Deserta also boasts an official naturist zone on its west coast. It’s the only beach of its kind among the best beaches around Faro.
Stopover on Ilha da Culatra: an authentic fishing village
We really likedIlha da Culatra. It offers a unique insight into traditional life in the Ria Formosa. You’re sure to be charmed by the authenticity of this village, where ancestral traditions are still alive and well, as the inhabitants still live mainly from fishing. We recommend exploring the island’s interior, where the charm of traditional houses and flower-filled gardens completes this exotic experience.
The island also offers some beautiful unspoilt beaches: Praia do Farol and Praia da Ilha Culatra. As well as protected dunes, accessible via wooden walkways that preserve this fragile environment. During your visit, you can’t fail to notice the lighthouse, which dominates the landscape. We learned that this building, which is the island’s landmark, was built in 1851! For more information on the beaches ofIlha da Culatra, see our article dedicated to Faro’s most beautiful nearby beaches.
Swimming in crystal-clear Atlantic waters
During your excursion, you’ll discover the wild beauty of the Ria Fomosa Nature Reserve. So when the time came for us to take a dip in this idyllic setting, we relished the moment. The absence of crowds makes swimming all the more enjoyable, allowing you to take full advantage of this unspoilt natural setting.
It was a relaxing moment, perfect for reconnecting with nature while discovering the marine biodiversity that surrounds these islands. Don’t forget to bring along a mask and snorkel for a chance to observe the marine biodiversity!
Frequently asked questions
Which islands are in the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve?
Although its name evokes a ria– a river valley invaded by the sea – the Ria Formosa is actually a series of lagoons protected by a barrier of islands. To the south, a dune line running almost parallel to the coast separates it from the Atlantic Ocean. This natural barrier is made up of 2 peninsulas – Faro peninsula to the west, including Ancão and Faro Beaches, and Cacela peninsula to the east, with Manta Rota Beach – and includes 5 dune islands, from west to east:
- Barreta,
- Culatra,
- Armona,
- Tavira
- and Cabanas
Where can you swim near Faro?
The nearest beach to Faro is the Praia de Faroeasily accessible from the city. Also known as Praia da Ilha de Faro, lies on a spit of sand that separates the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve from the Atlantic Ocean. It stretches for several kilometers, offering both peace and excitement. In fact, because of its length, it’s not impossible to find a secluded place to put your towel. However, fans of lively, friendly beaches will find plenty to do here, thanks to the many facilities, bars and restaurants lining the lagoon. We found it to be a friendly place, ideal for lazing around and strolling with family and friends. Finally, if you’re curious, don’t hesitate to explore the trails that run alongside the Nature Reserve, a popular area for birdwatchers.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE algarve
- Best of
Things to do in the Algarve
Most beautiful landscapes (coming soon)
Most beautiful towns and villages (coming soon)
Algarve’s most beautiful beaches
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in the Algarve (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Ponta da Piedade (coming soon)
Benagil cave (coming soon)
Praia da Marinha
Dolphin watching (coming soon)
What to do in Lagos
What to do in Portimao
What to do in Albufeira
What to do in Faro
