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The Ria Formosa Natural Park
The Ria Formosa Natural Park stretches from the Cacela Peninsula to the Island of Ancão, making up a chain of sandy peninsulas that separate the sea from the land and allowing the former to make inroads in only a few spots. As a result countless islands, islets and channels were formed.
As its fauna and flora are very similar to those of the Nature Reserve of the Castro Marim and Vila Real de Santo António Salt Marsh, it is home to many species of fowl, reptiles, amphibians and plants. Noteworthy amongst the birds that can be found here are northern shovelers, common teals, curlews and grey plovers, among others.
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Indeed, the existence of this natural heritage is fundamental for certain species such as the purple swamphen which only breeds in this habitat.
The plant-life, which grows exclusively in this type of habitat, is also well worth observing when visiting the estuary.
Salt Production
Old salt tanks can be found scattered along the coastline, relating the centuries-long ancient history and characteristic tradition that was the production of salt. The basis of Mediterranean gastronomy, salt was seen as the “diamond from the sea”.
In Tavira, the huge expanse of saltpans is set in the heart of the Ria Formosa. Here, the most valuable salt of all, known as “flower salt” is produced.
Hundreds of men, known as salt-workers or sea-gardeners, toil under the harsh sun of the hot summer days. From July to September, the water in the saltpans evaporates, leaving behind layers of salt crystals. The finest film of salt, which the salt-workers use special tools to collect, is called “flower salt”. “Flower salt” is valued both in Portugal and abroad because it can be consumed in its purest form, exactly as it is extracted from the saltpans and without being treated in any way.
Serra do Caldeirão
In the winter months, little streams run tranquilly through the mountainous areas of the Algarve. This is the perfect choice for a day out, worthwhile at any time of year but especially so in the colder months when the beaches are not so inviting.
Head off towards the village of Cachopo and, on the way, breathe in the pure air with its aroma of rock-rose and eucalyptus. Stop whenever you can to enjoy the peacefulness emanating from the holm-oak, cork-oak and common oak trees, and which is so characteristic of this corner of the mountainous area of the Algarve. If you are lucky, you may spot, albeit at a distance, some of the shy animals that live there, such as the European rabbit and the wild boar. Look towards the horizon, broken up by the hillocks, and try to spot a black stork or an Iberian imperial eagle. When you reach the village of Cachopo, what could be better than stopping off at one of the village restaurants to sample the typical mountain fare.
The Barrocal
During your visit to Tavira municipality, take a trip to the Algarvean uplands which are so close at hand. Visit the Pego do Inferno or the Moinhos da Rocha, by way of the Assêca Stream.
Pego do Inferno is a series of waterfalls, the largest of which forms a pretty lagoon in the rocks. Some examples of the local fauna can be found on the banks of the lagoon, amongst them turtles, common toads and hedgehogs. Climb up to the viewing-point so you can observe the citrus plantations that brightly colour the landscape. |
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