*ST* Ria Formosa Blue Lagoon
The Natural Park of Ria Formosa is a maritime lagoon protected to safeguard migratory birds and seahorses. A wonderful ecosystem consisting of sandy islands, sea canals, salines and clam fields. The two-hour boat trip will show you around in the widest part of the lagoon, with a stop on one of the islands for a short walkaround. Afterwards you have free time to visit the traditional market of the town Olhão, the biggest fishing port of the Algarve, and to grab some lunch. Strolling through the cobbled streets you will find typical 'pastelarias' for a quick bite and traditional restaurants for a warm dish of the day, or you can purchase fresh and dried fruits in the market hall for a light meal. In the afternoon, you will visit an olive oil producer with a tasting of this 'liquid gold' before heading to the city of Loulé. Located in the hinterland, away from the busy touristic coastline, Loulé has a lot of small cultural gems to discover. As you walk from artisan to chapel to city walls and old ruins, you get to learn the roots of the people in this lesser known part of the Algarve.
Route
A Ria FormosaB OlhãoC Loulé