Visit the Ria Formosa lagoon

Covering an area of around 20,000 hectares, the Ria Formosa Lagoon Natural Park is a paradise for local flora and fauna. The lagoon also boasts sumptuous landscapes and superb white sandy beaches. There are no fewer than 6 islands, each with its own personality. Some are trendier and more festive, others quieter and more authentic... There's bound to be one that will make you want to walk on its sands 😉 It would be a real shame to spend a few days in the Algarve without discovering this magnificent place!

Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or just passing through, a trip to the Ria Formosa lagoon to watch migratory birds is sure to please! Pink flamingos, white storks, egrets and many others: you'll be in for a real treat! But don't forget that the lagoon isn't just home to migratory birds, it also has its own year-round residents 🙂

The Ria Formosa lagoon is made up of 6 islands, each more beautiful than the last. To help you choose the island that's right for you, we've listed the characteristics of each of them below.

• The liveliest is theisland of Faro (also known as Praia de Faro). Stretching for around ten kilometres, you'll find long stretches of white sand, restaurants, hotels, shops, water sports...
• The most deserted...ilha Deserta (also known as ilha Barreta). There, you'll feel like you're on... a desert island! Sand as far as the eye can see and a turquoise blue sea. It's paradise!
• The most authentic is the island of Culatra, with its charming fishing villages. A well-deserved stopover at lunchtime for fresh fish and local seafood.
• The quietest is undoubtedly Ilha Cabanas. Sand, sand and more sand. Don't forget your sun cream! 😎
• The most poignant is undoubtedly ilha Tavira, with its anchor cemetery paying homage to the region's former tuna fishermen. It also has a beautiful white sand beach.
• And if you want a mix of all these islands and can't make up your mind:Armona island is a good compromise 😉

You can explore the Ria Formosa lagoon on a variety of boat trips. Nature lovers can opt for abird-watching tour. The more adventurous can go as far as the start of the Atlantic Ocean to spot dolphins. And finally, those looking for a lazy day can take a boat trip around the lagoon's most beautiful beaches.

Are you seasick? Don't worry, we've got the solution! 😉 The lagoon can also be explored on foot or by bike. There are plenty of well-maintained footpaths to help you discover the lagoon in a different way!

If visiting the Ria Formosa lagoon is just one stage in your Algarve road trip, we recommend staying in the town of Faro (rather than in the lagoon itself). That way, you can easily take advantage of the town's lively atmosphere, with its many restaurants, bars and shops. It will also make it easier to explore the surrounding villages: Tavira, Loulé, Carvoeiro...

However, if you want to sleep A-B-SO-LU-MENT in the lagoon, that's possible! Head for the island of Faro, where you'll find a range of facilities, including hotels, restaurants and departure points for excursions. The island of Armona also has campsites for those who like to spend the night in a tent or under the stars!

The Ria Formosa Lagoon Natural Park is located just outside the Algarve's capital, Faro. Most of the time, you'll arrive in Faro by plane. You can then take a taxi to the Faro marina. This is where the largest number of excursions depart from.