Natural park

Taste Tavira > Annick shows you around

Tag: Natural park

Olhão and the Islands – Gateway to the Wild Side of Ria Formosa

Ria Formosa Natural ParkPosted on

Olhão is the perfect starting point to explore a very interesting side of the Ria Formosa Natural Park , a labyrinth of salt marshes, sandbanks, and islands that stretch along the Algarve coast. While the town itself has a strong fishing identity, it’s the connection to the lagoon and its islands that makes Olhão truly special.

From the marina, you can catch a ferry or water taxi or book a (half) daytrip to the islands of Armona, Culatra, and Farol . These islands have no cars, just sandy paths, modest cottages, and unspoiled beaches. Culatra, home to a small fishing community, offers a rare glimpse of traditional island life—complete with colourful boats and drying octopus racks. Armona is perfect for a relaxed day of swimming and walking, with wide sandy shores on both the lagoon and ocean sides.

The boat journey itself is a highlight. As you glide across the calm waters of the lagoon, you’ll pass oyster beds, fishing nets, and flocks of birds wading in the shallows. The views constantly shift with the tides, making each trip feel slightly different. For a quieter, more ecological experience, you can also book a solar-powered boat tour through the Ria Formosa’s winding channels.

Whether you’re birdwatching, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the salty air, Olhão offers a deeper, wilder connection to nature. The islands here aren’t about beach bars or crowds—they’re about space, silence, and the simple beauty of sand and sea.

Ria Formosa _ Farol | Image unknown public domain
Ria Formosa _ Farol | Image unknown public domain
Ria Formosa Boat tour | Image unknown Public domain
Ria Formosa Boat tour | Image unknown Public domain

Quinta de Cima – Championship Golf

GolfPosted on

Nestled beside its sister course, Quinta da Ria, Quinta de Cima is renowned as one of the Algarve’s premier championship layouts. Designed by Rocky Roquemore, this par-72 course stretches over 6,586 meters, featuring wide fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and a meandering creek that challenges players across several holes.

In 2025, Quinta de Cima underwent significant maintenance, including the replanting of its fairways with new grass varieties to enhance playability and aesthetics. The course was closed for maintenance from May 26 to September 14, 2025, during which the academy course and short game areas were also closed. The driving range and practice putting greens remained open during this period.

As the course reopened in mid-September 2025, golfers can look forward to improved playing conditions that preserve the course’s natural beauty. The landscape, adorned with centuries-old olive and carob trees, remains untouched by real estate development, offering a pure golfing experience amidst the serene backdrop of the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Quinta de Cima has previously hosted several prestigious tournaments, including the PGA EuroPro Tour and the European Seniors Tour Qualifying School. With its blend of challenging design and natural charm, the course is set to welcome golfers back for an exceptional playing experience autumn 2025

Image: Quinta da Cima
Image: Quinta da Cima
Image: Quinta da Cima
Image: Quinta da Cima

Quinta da Ria – Golf with a View over the Ria Formosa

GolfPosted on

If you’re looking for a round of golf with unforgettable views, Quinta da Ria Golf Course is hard to beat. Located just a short drive from Tavira, this 18-hole course lies within the Ria Formosa Natural Park and offers a scenic mix of coastal landscapes, freshwater lakes, and orange groves.

Designed by the well-known architect Rocky Roquemore, Quinta da Ria is a par-72 course that combines challenging holes with panoramic backdrops. Several fairways run right alongside the sea, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic and the barrier islands. The greens are fast and well-kept, and there’s a strong breeze on many days to keep even experienced players on their toes.

Facilities include a modern clubhouse, a driving range, putting greens, and a short game area. There’s also a restaurant with a terrace, where you can relax after your game and enjoy fresh Algarvian cuisine while watching the sun set over the course.

Whether you’re a regular golfer or a vacationer looking for a memorable experience, Quinta da Ria delivers both natural beauty and technical enjoyment in equal measure. It’s no wonder it’s consistently ranked among the top courses in the Algarve.

Image: Quinta da Ria
Image: Quinta da Ria
Image: Quinta da Ria
Image: Quinta da Ria

Praia da Ilha de Tavira – The Classic Island Getaway

BeachesPosted on

Ilha de Tavira is perhaps the best-known beach in the area, and for good reason. Accessible by ferry from Tavira town, this long barrier island is a natural paradise with extensive facilities and golden sands stretching for kilometers. The beach is part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park and is well-kept with clean waters and gentle waves. Lifeguards are present during the summer, and there are plenty of sunbeds, restaurants, and kiosks for snacks and drinks.

Despite its popularity, there’s always room to find a quiet patch of sand. A short walk away from the main area takes you to wilder stretches with few people and untouched dunes. Whether you’re coming with family, friends, or solo, Praia da Ilha de Tavira has everything you need for a full day of fun and sun. It’s an essential part of any Tavira visit.

Ferries to Ilha de Tavira are operated by Silnido and depart from two locations: the town center and Quatro Águas. The ferry from Quatro Águas operates year-round, with departures approximately every hour in winter and more frequently in summer. The ferry from Tavira town center runs also on scheduled times. For detailed schedules and pricing, it’s recommended to consult the kiosk at the Gilão River quay or visit Silnido’s official website: https://en.silnido.com/copia-tavira.

The journey from Quatro Águas takes less than 10 minutes, while the trip from the town center is about 20 minutes. Both routes offer scenic views of the Ria Formosa lagoon. Tickets can be purchased at the respective departure points.

ilha-De-Tavira-Beach | Image unknown – Public domain
ferry tavira island
Image Tavira Tourism Office