Ilha Deserta: Faro's Desert Island

Ilha Deserta (officially Ilha da Barreta) is the southernmost point of mainland Portugal: a long, car-free barrier island in the Ria Formosa, with empty beaches, dunes and a boardwalk. It’s a short boat ride from Faro and feels like a castaway escape.

Quick answer: take a ferry from Faro (about 45 minutes, around €10 to €12). Walk the boardwalk across the island, swim from the long ocean beach, and have lunch at the island’s restaurant (book in summer). Bring water and sun protection, as there’s little shade.

Things to do

• The beach: miles of quiet sand facing the Atlantic.
• The boardwalk: a nature trail through the dunes, with information about plants and birds.
• Cabo de Santa Maria: the southernmost point of mainland Portugal.
• Seafood lunch at the island restaurant.
• Birdwatching on the lagoon side.

Getting there

Ferries and boat tours leave from Faro’s waterfront near the old town. Check return times carefully, as services are limited outside summer. See ferries in Portugal and Ria Formosa tours.

Tips

• Bring: water, snacks, sunscreen and an umbrella.
• Protected area: stay on the boardwalk in the dunes.
• Combine with Faro’s old town. See Faro.

More: the Ria Formosa Natural Park and Portugal’s hidden gems.

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