Praia do Barril Beach is located in the middle of Tavira Island, a narrow tongue of fine white sand. When accessing the beach it is possible to make a signposted pedestrian route with six observation stations, allowing to contemplate the environmental richness of the Ria Formosa.

 

Along the way, which is very pleasant, it is worth noting the diverse fauna of the banks, especially the mouths cava-crab (typical crab of these areas) that hide in the holes of mud to the passage of holidaymakers, and more near the beach, the vegetation of the extensive dune fields from which a very characteristic curry smell comes from a small plant called perpetual sand.

 

The tourism equipment of the beach was adapted from an old tuna fishing tackle and you can still see the original houses and some objects of the work, as well as a set of large anchors that are arranged in the surrounding space of the beach, landscaped with dune plants. This beach has equipment to support users (restaurants, bars, wc), as well as surveillance during the bathing season.

 

Access: It is necessary to cross a narrow pedestrian bridge that rises over a canal in the estuary and then walk or take a small train that provides regular service (about 1 km) to the beach.

 

The Barril Beach Train

 

Connecting Barril Beach to the mainland is a small railroad that was formerly used by the fishing fleet to transport goods between the community and the main road. This railroad has now been converted into a popular tourist attraction that transports visitors to the beach. The trip is only 1km and the round trip ticket costs € 2.00.

 

 

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