Vast coastal lagoon park with barrier island beaches, rich birdlife, and unspoiled natural beauty near Faro.

Stretching 60 km along the eastern Algarve coast, the Ria Formosa is one of Portugal's most important natural treasures and a UNESCO-recognized wetland. This intricate lagoon system of barrier islands, channels, mudflats, and salt pans shelters extraordinary biodiversity — including rare flamingos, purple gallinules, and seahorses in its waters. The barrier islands of Culatra, Armona, and Ilha Deserta offer pristine, car-free beaches accessible only by ferry, making them a serene escape from busier resorts. Faro is the gateway to the park, and boat tours weave through channels passing traditional fishing villages. The park is also a critical nursery for marine species and a vital stopover for migratory birds.