Solo Adventure Through Ria Formosa's Natural Wonders

Ria Formosa's Symphony of Nature and Flavors

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Ria Formosa Natural Park, a day filled with the calls of birds, the scent of pine, and the taste of the Algarve. It's amazing how much this place offers and how it manages to be so serene even close to urban areas. It reminded me why I started this solo journey, to reconnect with nature and find peace in simplicity.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Julias. I savored a traditional Portuguese roll with cheese and a strong coffee, fueling up for the day's adventures. It's these small, local spots that give a real taste of the region, far from the tourist traps.


Experience culinary delights at Restaurante Julias in Almancil – where exquisite continental cuisine meets breathtaking beach views.

São Lourenço Bird Hide: A Morning with the Feathered Residents

After breakfast, I headed to the São Lourenço Bird Hide. The hide is situated near a golf course, which creates an interesting juxtaposition of manicured greens and wild nature. I spent a couple of hours there, binoculars in hand, trying to identify the various species flitting about.


Experience the serene beauty of São Lourenço Bird Hide in Quinta do Lago, a must-visit for bird watchers and nature lovers in the Algarve.

The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a haven for birdwatchers, and São Lourenço is arguably one of the best spots in the Algarve. The proximity to different habitats like pine forests, marshes, salt pans and bush areas creates ideal conditions for biodiversity.

I spotted a Purple Swamphen, the park's symbol, and several ducks, herons and gulls. According to other birdwatchers, the hide offers views of the evasive Little Bittern, the Northern Pintail and the Tufted Duck. It was peaceful to sit and observe the wildlife, a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of Berlin.

Trilho de São Lourenço: Immersed in Nature's Trail

Next on the agenda was the Trilho de São Lourenço, a trail that winds through the diverse ecosystems of the area. The trail is about 3.3 km long and took me around 90 minutes to complete. It's an easy walk, perfect for a relaxed exploration of the Ria Formosa.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Trilho São Lourenço in Faro, Portugal, a must-visit hiking area for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

As I walked, I was surrounded by the sounds of nature – birds chirping, the wind rustling through the trees, and the distant sound of the ocean. The trail took me past salt marshes, where I could see fiddler crabs scurrying about and various species of waders. The landscape was varied, with sandy paths, boardwalks over the marshes, and groves of stone pines.

The trail is generally accessible, but some sections can be a bit boggy, especially after rain, so I was glad I had my hiking boots with me. I also noticed that some of the signage wasn't great, so it's worth paying attention to the path and being prepared for potential detours.

Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is relax and observe.

Ludo Trail: A Flamingo's Paradise

In the afternoon, I ventured onto the Ludo Trail, another popular spot for birdwatching and enjoying the Ria Formosa landscape. The Ludo Trail offers scenic walks and cycling paths through the salt pans and lagoons, and it's particularly known for its flamingos.


Explore the Ludo Trail in Almancil, a scenic hiking area featuring diverse landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and breathtaking views for nature lovers.

The trail can be walked or cycled, and the length varies depending on the route you choose. Some say it's a 7km walk, others mention a 10km route, and there's even a 34km cycling path that encompasses a larger area. I opted for a shorter walk, as I wanted to take my time and soak in the surroundings.

I was hoping to spot some flamingos, and I wasn't disappointed. I saw a few of them in the distance, their pink plumage standing out against the blue water. The Ludo Trail is also home to various other bird species, crabs and fish. Some parts of the trail are marked as private property, but it seems locals tend to ignore these signs.

MAR Shopping Algarve: A Touch of Christmas Spirit

As the afternoon waned, I decided to visit MAR Shopping Algarve, located in Loulé. It's the largest shopping mall in the Algarve, and I was curious to see what it was like. Plus, I needed to pick up a few things I'd forgotten, like sunscreen and a waterproof jacket.


Discover the ultimate shopping destination in Almancil with a mix of international brands, delicious dining, and fun entertainment at MAR Shopping Algarve.

The mall was decked out for Christmas, with a large Christmas tree and a Christmas village. It definitely put me in the festive spirit, even though it's still early December. They even have a Christmas Village, Santa Claus meet-and-greets, and a Ferris wheel. Considering I may not make it back to Berlin for the holidays, it was a welcome reminder of the season. I was able to find sunscreen, but I forgot about the jacket.

I noticed there was a Movie Night event happening, but I decided to skip it. I was more in the mood for a quiet dinner by the sea.

Bel'mare Gastrobar: Sunset Dinner by the Sea

For dinner, I chose Bel'mare Gastrobar on Praia de Faro. The restaurant has a great location with views of the sea, and I was hoping to catch the sunset.


Discover exquisite dining at Bel'mare Gastrobar near Praia de Faro - where local flavors meet stunning seaside views.

I ordered some tapas and a glass of wine, and sat back to enjoy the view. The food was good, and the service was friendly. The sunset was beautiful, painting the sky with oranges and pinks. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring the Ria Formosa.

Restaurante Olhão: A Culinary Culmination

To cap off the day, I decided to venture to Olhão for a late dinner at Restaurante Olhão - Restaurante Ria Formosa. I wanted to try some authentic seafood, and this place came highly recommended.


Experience authentic Portuguese seafood at Restaurante Ria Formosa in Olhão – where every meal is a taste of tradition and coastal charm.

The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and I ordered a seafood cataplana, a traditional Algarve dish cooked in a copper pot. The flavors were incredible, a mix of fresh seafood, vegetables, and herbs. It was a truly memorable meal, and a perfect way to end my second day in the Ria Formosa.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful part of Portugal. The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a true gem, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and delicious cuisine. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which will include a visit to Parque Ribeirinho de Faro, the Stork and Cormorant Rookery, and a walk along the Boardwalk. I'm also planning to have breakfast at Gigi's Beach restaurant, lunch at Maria's Restaurant and Beach, and dinner at 2 Passos. And who knows, maybe I'll even stop by The Shack for a drink.

Before I turn in for the night, I thought I would share a random fact I recently learned: An ostrich's eye is bigger than its brain. I'm not sure why that's relevant, but it's certainly a conversation starter! Good night from the Algarve.

I'm looking forward to what tomorrow brings. Perhaps I'll see you on the trails!