Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, Nature park in Faro, Portugal.
Parque Natural da Ria Formosa is a protected wetland spanning about 60 kilometers along the Algarve coast, consisting of shallow waters, sandy barriers, channels, and vegetated islands. The terrain shifts between open water, mudflats, dunes, and areas of reed and marsh growth.
Portugal designated this area as a nature reserve in 1978, then elevated it to national park status in 1987. The protection measures arose from the need to safeguard coastal habitats and resources.
Local communities practice salt harvesting, fishing, and shellfish collection as everyday work that shapes the region's food and livelihood. These traditional trades remain visible in how people use the waterways and islands.
The park is best explored from the coastal towns where visitor centers and trailheads are located. Wear comfortable shoes and bring binoculars for bird watching, and plan visits during spring and fall migration seasons for the most activity.
The park is home to the Portuguese water dog, a breed fishermen historically used to help catch fish by herding them toward nets. These dogs were trained to work alongside boats and remain part of the region's heritage.
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