A unique local experience in the Ria Formosa lagoon
Clam Picking and Oyster Bank Experience
Arranged by CONRAD Algarve, participants on the TASTE PORTUGAL 2014/15 Press Trip will experience a real life adventure on a traditional fisherman's wooden boat learning the ancient secrets and skills of clam picking
‘The Ria Formosa Natural Park was recently elected as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal’
ON THE FINAL DAY of the culinary and cultural adventure that makes up the TASTE PORTUGAL 2014/15 Press Trip, members of the British press will be taken to the heart of the natural park of Ria Formosa, a protected lagoon for different species of fauna and flora, and, guided by a local and experienced fisherman, will learn the traditional ways of clam and razor clam picking.
A unique coastal lagoon, constantly changing due to the continuous movement of winds, currents and tides, the Ria Formosa Natural Park was recently elected as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal. Classified as a Natural Park in 1987, it encompasses an area of about 18 000 hectares and is protected from the sea by five barrier-islands and two peninsulas: the Peninsula of Cacela and the Peninsula of Ancão – known locally as the island of Faro.
A paradise for birdwatchers, the Ria Formosa is considered an important bird area (IBA) and is part of the Natura 2000 Network. It is home to a number of endangered and rare species, including the Purple Swamphen, the chameleon, the seahorse and the Portuguese Water Dog.
Shellfish farming is the key economic activity in the tidal flats of the Ria Formosa, and the area is responsible for nearly 80% of Portuguese clam exports. The work is hard, but the reward worthwhile. After trying their hand at clam picking, our press trippers will also visit to an oyster bank, before enjoying an oyster dégustation accompanied by champagne.
Upon return to CONRAD Algarve, the day – and trip – will be topped off with a culinary master-class with Heinz Beck, focusing – of course – on seafood and shellfish.
