RIA FORMOSA NATURAL PARK, ALGARVE
The Ria Formosa Natural Park was
established in 1987 and encompasses 60km of coast between Anção
and
Manta Rota in the Eastern Algarve. The surface area of the Park is around
18000 hectares through the Districts of Loulé, Faro, Olhão, Tavira and Vila Real
de San Antonio.
A major part of this area is associated with the barrier island system consisting of a coastal dune barrier, running parallel with the coast, and defending a shallow, warm water lagoon with salt marshes, channels, tidal flats and islets.
The Environmental Education Centre of Marim (EECM) is a 60 hectare area of the Park, situated at Quinta da Marim.
Within the Centre there is a Nature Trail, about 3km long, taking 2-3 hours to walk round. It is well marked and includes stopping points equipped with Information Panels.
The Ria Formosa Natural Park is of particular importance to bird life: as a breeding ground for many species, as a wintering ground for many birds from northern Europe, as a resting and feeding station for birds migrating between Africa and Europe, and as a habitat for several species threatened elsewhere in Europe. The park is also important for its rich salt-resistant flora and as a breeding ground and nursery for many marine species.
To the visitor, the park presents
a massive open area filled with sea air, sparkling water and sunlight. The
best view you will probably get of it is as your plane banks over the coast to
land at Faro airport (sit on the right-hand side of the plane). From the air, it
is a stunning patchwork of green islets, blue lagoons and white beaches. The
beaches are
fantastic both for
bathers in
the summer and for walkers in the winter. The salt marshes and tidal flats will
thrill bird watchers with the many species of waders, waterfowl and sea birds.
For nature lovers, artists, photographers and those curious about local life, the park has much to offer.
Among
the buildings that have been restored is a tidal mill, a traditional farmhouse.
a villa built at the beginning of the century and Roman ruins.
There is also a restored, ancient boat (used for the transport of tuna fish) moored at the jetty; trips around the lagoon are available on this boat.
There is a kennel specialising in the famous Portuguese Waterdog, a working dog (used extensively in the fishing industry in years gone by) with webbed feet.
