Category: Nature > Beach
District: Faro > Tavira > Ilha de Tavira > Sítio do Forte da Barra
Praia do Forte da Barra is located on the stunning Tavira Island, one of the barrier islands that form the Ria Formosa Natural Park. It is situated in the westernmost part of the island, adjacent to the historical structure from which it takes its name.
The surroundings are characterized by a vast golden sandy beach, bathed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and offering privileged views over the Ria, providing a serene environment intrinsically linked to the estuarine and maritime dynamics of the eastern Algarve region.
The beach's name stems from its proximity to the Forte de São João da Barra, also known as Forte do Rato. Although the focus is the beach itself, the presence of this ancient fortification lends the place a sense of history and connection to the region's past of coastal defense, marking the landscape with its imposing presence.
This historical landmark, which once protected the bar entrance to the Ria and the city of Tavira, today lends the beach a unique identity, recalling the strategic importance this area held throughout the centuries and contributing to its cultural uniqueness within the Algarve context.
Praia do Forte da Barra is distinguished by its extensive sandy beach, characteristic of the Ria Formosa barrier islands. The fine golden sand stretches over a vast area, inviting long walks along the seashore, where the tidal range constantly shapes the coastal landscape.
The waters bathing this beach are generally calm and clear, making it appealing for those seeking a tranquil contact with the sea. Its inclusion in the Ria Formosa Natural Park ensures the preservation of its natural beauty, with typical dunes and coastal vegetation that complement the landscape and enrich the visitor's experience.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.1186777,-7.6153285
Coordinates DMS: 37°07'7.2"N 07°36'55.2"W