Mouth of the River Beach

Category: Nature > Beach

District: Faro > Vila do Bispo > Salema > Boca do Rio

Location:

Boca do Rio Beach is located on the coast of the municipality of Vila do Bispo, near the village of Salema. It is situated where the waters of several streams flow into the sea, giving the place its name. The beach is set in a wide valley and is naturally delimited by cliffs on both sides. Access to this sandy area is considered easy.

Natural Setting:

This beach is the meeting point between the fresh water of the streams and the Atlantic Ocean. The valley formed by the confluence of these watercourses is a natural area of great interest. Sometimes, the stream water does not directly reach the sea, creating a small lagoon known as Paúl da Lontreira, a wetland of ecological value. In the surrounding landscape, marked by limestone cliffs and typical Mediterranean vegetation, it is possible to observe wildlife, including otters and cattle grazing on the banks of the streams. The area is part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park. Near the sandy area, there is also a eucalyptus grove that offers some natural shade.

Historical and Archaeological Richness:

The Boca do Rio area is a place with a long history of human occupation. It was particularly relevant during the Roman period, having been an important "villa" linked to fishing activity, possibly with its own port. Traces from that era can still be found today, such as ruins of bathhouses, warehouses, and structures of a fish salting and preservation factory, in addition to signs of frescoes and mosaics, and areas that served as necropolises. To the east of the beach, at the top of the cliff, one can spot the ruins of the Fort of São Luís de Almádena. This fortification was built in the 17th century for defensive purposes, but was severely damaged by the 1755 earthquake.

The Sandy Area and the Sea:

Boca do Rio Beach features a considerably extensive sandy area, characterized by its tranquility and low attendance. Its waters are generally calm, especially during the bathing season, making it a suitable place for swimming. Although there are some rock formations scattered across the sand and along the waterline, these do not represent significant submerged obstacles for bathers. It is a place with a more preserved natural environment, without the support infrastructures found in more urbanized beaches.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt