Vilamoura Environmental Park

Category: Nature > Park

District: Faro > Loulé > Quarteira > Vilamoura

Location

The Vilamoura Environmental Park is located in the urbanisation of Vilamoura, in the locality of Quarteira, which belongs to the municipality of Loulé. This natural space is harmoniously integrated into the urbanised area, offering a tranquil contrast to the surrounding dynamism. It is situated close to the banks of the Quarteira Stream, a natural element that contributes to its biodiversity.

A Natural Refuge

Spanning approximately 200 hectares, the Vilamoura Environmental Park's primary purpose is the protection and enhancement of local biodiversity, encompassing both its fauna and flora. It serves as a green lung that invites direct and serene contact with nature, featuring an extensive network of paths stretching for several kilometres, ideal for exploratory walks and contemplation.

Discovering the Avifauna

The park is particularly notable for its rich avifauna, being a privileged location for birdwatching. It features strategically located observatories, one integrated into the agricultural areas and another next to the reed bed, an important wetland. These points allow visitors to observe various species, including some rarer ones such as the Caimão, the Garça Vermelha, and the Águia Sapeira, which find a suitable habitat in this ecosystem throughout the year.

The Flora's Richness

Along the paths, the park reveals a wide variety of flora, representative of the Algarve landscape and its traditional uses. It is possible to observe trees typical of the region's non-irrigated orchards, such as carob trees, almond trees, fig trees, and olive trees. Extensive agricultural areas host cereals like wheat and barley, while the wetlands stand out for the dense presence of reeds and cattails, vital elements for the balance of the local ecosystem.

A Hub of Knowledge

The Vilamoura Environmental Park also houses the Centre for Nature and Environment Studies. This centre features a permanent exhibition room dedicated to showcasing the region's natural riches, as well as a library. It is a space that complements the outdoor visit, allowing visitors to deepen their knowledge of the Algarve's natural heritage and the importance of its conservation.

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