Ria & River

The Alvor lagoon and, across the river, the fishing village of Ferragudo.

A short outing for your first days, either side of Portimão. First the Alvor lagoon, flat and full of birds; then Ferragudo, the fishing village facing the town across the river. There is very little driving, and your driver collects you at the hotel and waits. Made for families and anyone who has just arrived.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Passadiços da Ria de Alvor

   Wooden boardwalks run across the dunes between Alvor village and the sea, with the lagoon on one side and the beach on the other. It is a flat, unhurried walk that suits all ages, and at low tide you can watch herons, stilts and other birds feeding on the mudflats. Finish with a stroll down to the sand. Late afternoon brings the softest light; bring water and a hat, as there is almost no shade along the way.

2. 

   2

   Ferragudo e Castelo de São João

   Across the Arade river from Portimão, Ferragudo still feels like a fishing village: white houses climbing the slope, boats pulled up on the bank and a waterside square lined with café tables. The São João do Arade fort, set right by the beach, is privately owned, so enjoy it from outside, ideally from the sand. Walk up to the church for a view over the whole estuary. Order grilled fish, or sardines when they are in season.

The essentials

Duration

3–4 h · Morning or late afternoon

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

First day of the holiday; families.

The route