Lagoon Stories

The Roman bridge, the little train to the anchor graveyard and the white village above the lagoon.

A full day in the eastern Algarve, where the lagoon sets a slower pace. First Tavira and its old bridge, then the little train out to the anchors on Praia do Barril and, finally, the white village of Cacela Velha leaning over the water. It is a longer drive, but it pays off. For those who already know the west.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Tavira

   Tavira is split by the Gilão river and joined by the old bridge, known as the Roman bridge, which you cross on foot. Up the hill, the castle has a small garden looking over the distinctive hipped rooftops, with a church on almost every corner. Down below, the riverside has cafés and the old market hall. It is a town to wander without hurry, ideally in the late afternoon. Try an almond or fig sweet from a local pastry shop before heading back to the car.

2. 

   2

   Praia do Barril (cemitério das âncoras)

   From Pedras d'El Rei you cross the lagoon on a footbridge and take a little train, or walk, to Barril Beach. There, on a dune, the old anchors from the tuna-fishing boats stand in rows, an unusual memorial to the life this coast once lived. The former fishing station buildings are now cafés and restaurants. The train fare is paid separately. Bring a hat and water, and for more peace simply walk a little way along the sand in either direction.

3. 

   3

   Cacela Velha

   Cacela Velha is a handful of white houses, a church and a small fort on a low cliff, with the Ria Formosa and the sea spread out in front. It does not take long to walk around, but the view from the churchyard stays with you. At low tide you can watch shellfish gatherers on the sand, and at high tide the water comes almost to the foot of the village. Try local oysters at one of the village eateries, paid separately, and come for sunset.

The essentials

Duration

8 h · Full day

Pick-up

At your hotel. The final price depends on where you are staying; we confirm it when you tell us.

Included

The car and the driver, only for your group, tolls and water.

Not included

Entrance tickets and meals.

Who it is for

Anyone who already knows the west.

The route