Top 2 Lakes around Ferreiras

The most notable natural water body near Ferreiras is Salgados Lagoon (Lagoa dos Salgados). This 50-hectare coastal wetland is recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) and is a prime spot for nature enthusiasts.

Salgados Lagoon is a birdwatching paradise, home to over 200 bird species. You might spot flamingos, purple herons, spoonbills, and the globally endangered Ferruginous Duck. Other species like Greater Short-toed Lark and Caspian Tern are also common. Binoculars are recommended for optimal viewing.

Yes, the lagoon features a network of raised wooden boardwalks, such as the Salgados Lagoon Boardwalk, which are wide enough to be wheelchair accessible in parts. These trails are suitable for leisurely walks, making it a great outing for families and those with strollers or wheelchairs.

Swimming is strictly forbidden in Salgados Lagoon itself to protect its delicate ecosystem and wildlife. However, the lagoon backs onto the beautiful Praia dos Salgados beach, where you can enjoy swimming, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding in the ocean. You can find more information about the beach here: Praia dos Salgados.

Besides birdwatching and walking along the boardwalks, the area around Salgados Lagoon offers opportunities for jogging and cycling. The proximity to Praia dos Salgados beach also allows for beach activities. For more structured cycling, you can explore various routes in the region, including road cycling routes, gravel biking routes, and general cycling tours around Ferreiras.

While Salgados Lagoon is the primary lake attraction, you might also consider visiting Barrocal Waterfall. This spot can be a nice place to relax and even swim after sufficient rain, though it may dry out during the hotter, drier months like July, August, and September.

The best times for birdwatching at Salgados Lagoon are during early mornings or late afternoons when birds are most active, and especially during the spring and autumn migration seasons. These periods offer the highest chance of spotting a wide variety of species.

Salgados Lagoon is accessible by car, with free parking available near the boardwalk entrance. Access to the lagoon and its boardwalks is also free.

The area around Salgados Lagoon is close to various amenities, including restaurants and accommodation options in the wider Albufeira region. There are also beach bars near Praia dos Salgados where you can relax.

Visitors frequently highlight the tranquil nature escape, the exceptional birdwatching opportunities from the Birdwatching Observatory at Lagoa dos Salgados, and the convenience of combining a nature walk with relaxation on the nearby sandy beach. The easy accessibility of the boardwalks is also a much-appreciated feature.