The Ilha da Culatra belongs to the county of Faro. It is located in the Natural Park (Parque Natural) of Ria Formosa and has about 1,100 inhabitants. The island is 7 km long and over 1 km wide. The western part is often referred to as Ilha do Farol. It is believed that there were formerly 2 islands that have become connected by residues.
Coordinates:: 36° 59′ 17″ N, 7° 50′ 17″ W
The island can be reached by ferries from Faro and Olhão. The timetables are seasonal. Water taxis operate on request as well, also to the neighbouring islands. Despite the short distance, the journey takes some time (30 to 45 minutes), since one has to go relatively slowly within the nature reserve,and the routes lead far enough from the breeding sites of the birds.
The island of Culatra has 2 ferry docks: in the west, near the widely visible lighthouse in Farol, and quite in the middle of the island, on the north side, in Culatra. The settlement Hangares is located between these two places within walking distance.
Private vehicles are not allowed on the island! Pets are only transported in suitable boxes.
Hotel or resort facilities do not exist. However, it is possible to book overnight stays in small guesthouses or holiday homes. The offer is very limited.
From Culatra there are wooden gangplanks above the dunes to the south coast of the island.
The nature reserve is home to several, sometimes rare, bird species, which must not be disturbed during parental care.
Even in high season there is plenty of space and privacy on the beaches. The beach sections near the settlements are of course more crowded.
Culatra Village
A large part of the visitors are day trippers who arrive by regular ferries.
Small villas or townhouses characterise the urban images.
Motorised vehicles are reserved for supply and waste disposal only.
Igreja Capela Ilha da Culatra
The Igreja Capela Ilha da Culatra is the only church on the island. A visit is only possible during mass hours.
Farol Village
The place is located at the westernmost tip of the island. There are various shops, restaurants, cafés and some beach bars.
Fortified paths are rather an exception. But enjoying tranquillity is nice as well as not having to worry about the traffic.
The most striking building of the island is the Farol (lighthouse) do Cabo de Santa Maria, built in 1851 and 47 m high, situated in the same named village (Farol), in the very west of the island. Its light is visible for about 25 nautical miles (46 km).
In the summer months, the vegetation is rather sparse. However, despite the dry sandy soil plants grow almost everywhere.
Hangares Village
Hangares is located on the north side of the island. The place is easy to reach on foot via sandy paths from both ferry berths.
There are several restaurants and shopping facilities in the village.