Tavira Island (Ilha de Tavira) lies south of the town of Tavira. The island is 11 kilometres long and varies between 150 m to 1 km in width. The Barril Beach (Praia do Barril), situated on the island, is one of the finest beaches of the eastern Algarve. It’s famous for pristine white sands and crystal clear waters. It is part of the Natural reserve of Ria Formosa. There is a narrow-gauge train to Praia do Barril.
Tourist train to Barril Beach is a narrow-gauge railway built to 600 mm gauge. Train operates during summer season from 8.30 am to 9 pm. The narrow-gauge railway connects the pier in front of Pedras d’el Rei to Praia do Barril (on the Island of Tavira). The line was built in 1920s to provide railway connection to the old tuna fishing trap located at Praia do Barril. Total length of the route is about 1,1 km. Journey time is 8 minutes. Tickets are cheap.
The Algarve line and narrow-gauge railway line are not connected. Closest railway station on the Algarve line is Luz – located 3,5 km from the station of the touris train to Praia Barril. Railway station in Tavira is located 5 km away.
Train to Praia Barril is operated by the administration of the Pedras d’el Rei resort.
It is an interesting attraction not only for railway enthusiasts. If the train is not running, you can walk along the train tracks.
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