Along its 60km length, there are several points where you can stop to observe the Ria Formosa from different perspectives. If you buy a flight to Faro, you will have privileged access to an aerial view over the canals, islands, marshes and sandbanks that form the Ria Formosa Natural Park, one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal.
However, if you are visiting the Algarve and don't have a flight scheduled from Faro, know that there are other viewpoints from which you can observe the Ria Formosa, not from an aerial view. One of these viewpoints stands in what is one of the smallest and best-preserved villages in the Algarve. It is Cacela Velha, a historic village that is located at the top of a hill and from which you can observe the estuary, the sea, and the eastern end of the island of Cabanas.
While Cacela Velha is a natural viewpoint accessible every day and at any time, there is another, which allows you to see the estuary from an even higher point, which is only open on Wednesdays. Access to this is by boat and you will also need to pay attention to their schedules, as they change depending on the time of year.
We are talking about the Cabo de Santa Maria Lighthouse, located on Ilha do Farol, in Faro. To reach the top of this 46-meter-high monument you will have to climb a total of 220 steps. The route to the top is challenging for many, but those who get there can enjoy a view of the Ria Formosa, the sea, Faro, Olhão, Cerro de São Miguel, and even São Brás de Alportel.