At Garrão, the line of cliffs gives way to huge dune fields that stretch all the way to the sandy barrier islands of the Ria Formosa, not very far from here. The beach runs along two valleys separated by a low cliff: the Dunas Douradas Lagoon lies in the valley to the west, while the smaller, ephemeral Garrão Lagoon is to be found in the valley to the east. Both these wetland areas are fresh water, a rarity on this coast and greatly appreciated by many species of aquatic birds. A walk along the banks of the Dunas Douradas Lagoon will give visitors an excellent opportunity to observe the various birds that feed, rest or nest here, such as the Eurasian coot, mallard and the emblematic purple swamphen. The line of pine trees and its natural undergrowth that stretches all the way from Quarteira flanks the water mirrors, providing protection and shelter for the aquatic flora and fauna. A network of walkways crosses the dune, allowing visitors to observe the rich and aromatic flora on the sands, including endemic species such as Portuguese thyme.

Additional Information

Address: Vale do Lobo

Postal Code: 8100

County: Loulé

VisitAlgarve URL: https://visitalgarve.pt/en/2263/praia-de-garrao-poente-e-garrao-nascente.aspx