Natural luxury

Attracting visitors from around the world, the luxury lifestyle of Quinta do Lago is inspired by the surrounding natural beauty of the Ria Formosa, a richly biodiverse wetland of huge ecological importance. Made up of an intricate network of inlets and sandbanks, it is a maze of canals, islands and marshes, and home to a wealth of flora and fauna.

Often called the Algarve’s best kept secrets, here you can explore the islands of Farol, Armona, Culatra, and Ilha Deserta. Expect white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and some of the freshest seafood on any of these islands of the Algarve coast. The deserted dunes and sparkling waters make island-hopping a dream, so for anyone keen to visit some of our favourite spots in the Algarve - let’s take a tour of the region’s very own secret islands!

Ilha do Farol is well-known by locals for its tall lighthouse and stunning beaches on 3 Km of deserted golden sands, connecting with Culatra island at east. It's little wonder then, that so many of them take the ferry here to enjoy their summer weekends. In fact, this is the perfect destination for a day trip, either by ferry or by private boat. On the southwest side of the beach, there is a pier with a boardwalk that stretches along over 1,5 km into the ocean.

Probably the most lively place of the islands, landing at the dock on Armona, you are lead directly onto narrow, car-free streets lined with bars, cafés, and shops. The boardwalk then takes you over the dunes and on to the beach. The island stretches for around 3 km, and from the east for another 6 kilometres along the sandbanks into island of Fuseta (only if you dare the adventure!), where another ferry dock connects the picturesque village of Fuseta to the island.

Ilha da Culatra is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve. Facing out towards the ocean, the fine, white sands are surrounded by wind-swept dunes making it quite different from the cliff-side beaches along the mainland coastline. The waters are particularly clear here making them perfect for diving and snorkeling - and are filled with a wide variety of sea life to discover, including the largest community of seahorses in the world. 

Also known as Barreta Island, Ilha Deserta Island is unique for several reasons. Firstly, it is completely uninhabited, hence its name - the deserted island. Secondly, it is an important sanctuary for important seabird populations due to it marking the southernmost point of mainland Portugal. A true natural paradise, it is one of the most remote, unspoiled parts of the Algarve - a peaceful and idyllic location, perfect for getting back to nature!

Vila Vita Parc and Vila Vita Collection can arrange tours to the islands of the Ria Formosa and the beyond.  Explore the coast from a different perspective and spend a glorious day at sea with Vila Vita’s exclusive fleet of yachts.