Category: Nature > Spring
District: Faro > Albufeira > Olhos de Água
In Olhos de Água, in the municipality of Albufeira, there are small springs that emerge directly from the sand, between Praia dos Olhos de Água and Praia do Barranco das Belharucas. They appear along the coast, in a stretch extending eastward.
During low tide, crystal-clear pools form near the fissures in the sand, where the contrast between the blue of the sea and the golden sand creates a serene and captivating landscape.
These water points arise thanks to an underground aquifer system (Albufeira–Ribeira de Quarteira aquifer) which allows rainwater to infiltrate into limestone rock. The phenomenon causes fresh water to surface on the sand, initially attracting shepherds who noticed the springs near the cliffs.
They were called Olheiro da Cabra (Goat's Spring) due to the habit of the cattle gathering in these locations to quench their thirst. Later, the abundance of springs led to the designation of the entire village as Olhos de Água (Eyes of Water), its official name since the beginning of the 20th century.
As the tide recedes, bubbles of pure water multiply, emerging from the subsoil and creating small lagoons that vary in size depending on the sea level. These pools host microfauna adapted to frequent changes in salinity.
The reflections of sunlight on the pools create unique patterns on the sand, making each visit different. Observing the slow dripping of water conveys a sense of tranquility, ideal for those who appreciate the transition between sea and land.
Coordinates DD: 37.08995539536397,-8.186202491405636
Coordinates DMS: 37°05'23.8"N 08°11'10.3"W
Weather Olhos de Água
On-duty Pharmacy Olhos de Água
