Forte de São João da Barra

Forte de S. João da Barra, built in the shape of a star in the 2nd half of the century XVII.

Forte de S. João da Barra, built in the 2nd half of the 17th century in star-shaped, to defend the access bar to the port of Tavira, it was left without military functions with the diversion of the bar to the east and the siltation of the estuary.

Lost between the sky and the sea, with its walls and imposing coat of arms, it preserves a space of enormous quality in its interior, the parade ground with a well and stone tanks, with the Governor's House in the background, with chapel and terraces flagstones.

The Fort was classified as a building of public interest, recently adapted for Nature Tourism, has 10 rooms equipped with modern furniture.

In the northeast bulwark there is a round stone capped swimming pool and in the southeast bulwark, facing the sea, guests can have breakfast and observe the beautiful surrounding landscape.

In the governor's house the decor is sober and sophisticated, with period furniture, collectibles and contemporary paintings, there is a dining room and a living/music room, a breakfast room and an outdoor bar.

The Fort is part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park and focuses on simplicity, taking advantage of natural resources whenever possible, with a boat for access to the beach, information on walking routes, cycle paths, horse riding, bird watching, astronomical observation, cultural activities in the area, fishing and boat trips.

At breakfast, local and Mediterranean products are privileged: such as fig stars with roasted almonds, dates, dried apricots, jams and local seasonal fruit, bread, algarve orange juice, prince tea, mint tea, oil , tomatoes with oregano.

Located 10 km from Tavira, 40 km from Faro airport and 200 km from Seville.