For those who are tired of the cold water of the Portuguese beaches, there is a secret well kept in the Algarve: Barreta Beach, located on the deserta island, in Faro. This piece of paradise, as it is considered by the idealist, is accessible only by boat and is known to have the hottest seawater across the country, with temperatures that can reach 24 ° C during the summer.
Calm
Hidden in the heart of Ria Formosa Natural Park, Barreta Beach offers a calm and almost untouched atmosphere, away from the crowds and the usual algarve coast. It is a destination specially sought by those who value tranquility and the connection with nature.
The island extends over 11 kilometers and is one of the five barrier islands in the region. There are no buildings around the beach, which contributes to maintaining its natural beauty and the feeling of isolation. Water temperatures are surprisingly mild, oscillating between 20 ° C and 24 ° C in the summer months. According to the same source, this is “a true paradise hidden in the Algarve” and stands out for “the hottest water in the country.”
The sand is thin and gold, the waters are clear and crystal clear, and the native vegetation is present along the sand. The natural and preserved scenario transforms Barreta beach into a place that can be suitable for relaxing, sunbathing and diving comfortably.
Access to the island
Access to the island is made exclusively by sea, from Faro. In summer, there are several transport options: ferrys with tickets about 5 euros per trip, and shuttles slightly faster for about 10 euros. The boats depart from the new door from 09h30 and operate throughout the day.
During the route to the island, it is possible to observe the typical Ria Formosa biodiversity, with birds such as swimming, drunk and gavines accompanying the crossing. It is an experience that starts on the boat, even before setting your feet on the beach.
In addition to being a refuge for those looking for tranquility, Praia da Barreta is also an authorized zone for the practice of naturism, especially at its western end. This feature reinforces the free and reserved environment that defines the place.
A Wild Island
With a landscape almost intact and without the urban pressure of other algarve beaches, this barrier island maintains its wild character. It is a destination recommended by the same source for those who like hiking, observation of nature and long sea baths in warmer waters. Even during the months with the highest tourist affluence, Barreta beach remains surprisingly quiet, thanks to its isolated location. This can make it a luxury option for those who want to escape the region’s crowded areas.
Photography lovers also find plenty of reasons for a visit, with stunning natural light and clean horizons that are lost in sight. The sunset on the island is one of the high moments of the day.
Absence of infrastructure
The absence of traditional bathing infrastructures means that it is necessary to take the essential to spend the day, such as water, hat and sunscreen. Still, the existing restaurant on the island offers complete meals overlooking the sea. Barreta beach represents a different side of the Algarve: purer, quieter and, above all, with warmer waters. It is a destination that stands out not only by the climate, but also for the balance between natural beauty and controlled accessibility.
Located a few minutes by a boat from the city of Faro, the island is easily included in a one -day ride, but many visitors end up wanting time to stop there. The charm of the place does not go unnoticed to those who go there, according to the.
Among the local inhabitants, there are those who call Barreta beach “The Last Wild Beach of the Algarve”. And may not be wrong. What is certain is that for those looking for hot water, silence and nature, this can be the right place. With a protected landscape, more inviting waters and a permanent sensation of evasion, this Algarve beach remains one of the great hidden jewels of the Portuguese coast.
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