Parque Natural da Ria Formosa

The protected wetland extends over 60 kilometers along the Algarve coast, featuring a network of canals, islands, marshes, and barrier formations.

The Portuguese government established Ria Formosa as a natural reserve in 1978 and elevated its status to a nature park in 1987.

Local communities maintain traditional activities such as salt extraction, fishing practices, and shellfish harvesting, contributing to regional gastronomy and economic sustainability.

Visitors can start their exploration at the Environmental Education Center of Marim, which provides information about hiking trails and bird observation points.

The area serves as a crucial habitat for the Portuguese water dog, a breed that fishermen historically used to assist in catching fish.

Location: Faro

Inception: 1978

Operator: Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas

Part of: Sotavento Algarvio

Opening Hours: 24/7

Website: http://icnf.pt/portal/ap/p-nat/pnrf

GPS coordinates: 37.06318,-7.72360

Latest update: March 8, 2025 20:57