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Village · Tavira, Faro
Cacela Velha
Small white village atop a cliff overlooking the Ria Formosa, with a church, a fortress and views of the lagoon and the islands. It is about 13 km from Tavira.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cacela Velha
Cacela Velha is a small village in the municipality of Vila Real de Santo António, about 13 km from Tavira. It sits atop a cliff overlooking the eastern part of the Ria Formosa.
The core has a few streets of white houses with blue skirting, the Igreja Matriz with a Renaissance portal, and an 18th-century fortress on the cliff.
From the church square you can see the ria, the sandbanks and the island in front, with Cacela Velha beach. At low tide it's possible to walk across to the beach; at high tide there are fishermen's boats.
The village is known for its oysters and shellfish from the Ria Formosa, served in small restaurants.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From one hour to half a day, including the beach.
Best time
In the late afternoon, for the view over the ria. Check the tide table if you want to walk across to the beach.
How to get there
It is about 13 km from Tavira by car or taxi, with parking at the entrance to the village.
Tip
Do not cross the ria on foot when the tide is coming in. Try the ria's oysters at the village restaurants.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cacela Velha
Where is Cacela Velha?
On top of a cliff above the Ria Formosa, about 13 km from Tavira.
Can you walk to Cacela Velha beach?
At low tide, yes, by crossing the ria. At high tide, there are boats.
What to eat in Cacela Velha?
Oysters and shellfish from the Ria Formosa.