Kayaking
At Villa Lage, kayaks and paddleboards are always on hand, ready for guests to explore the calm waters of the Ria Formosa directly from the property.
The captain is available to assist whenever the lagoon calls, ensuring a smooth and effortless experience. Early mornings are especially magical — when the water lies still as glass and the birdlife awakens, offering a quiet connection with nature that feels both serene and unforgettable.
Explore:
Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddle – Silence, Nature & Pure Freedom
At Villa Lage, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are among the most effortless and rewarding ways to connect with the Ria Formosa. With equipment always available at the villa — and our captain ready to assist — everything is designed so you can glide into the water with complete ease and enjoy the lagoon at your own rhythm.
Laser Pico Sailing
In addition to kayaks and paddleboards, Villa Lage also offers a Laser Pico, a light and agile sailing boat perfect for exploring the calm waters of the Ria Formosa. On high tide, the lagoon becomes an ideal sailing playground, with steady breezes and wide open channels. For more experienced sailors, there is the option to venture closer to the sea entrance and feel the exhilaration of sailing near the Atlantic, always guided by the rhythm of the tides and the natural conditions of the day.
Effortless Starts
Guided by Our Captain
Our captain is always on hand to help prepare the kayaks and SUP boards, carry them to the water, and ensure you begin your outing comfortably, safely and without any effort
Routes Directly From the Villa — Quiet, Safe & Immersive
1. Heading East – Silence & Protected Waters
Paddling east from the villa leads you into one of the quietest parts of the lagoon — an area forbidden to motorboats, ensuring deep silence and total nature immersion.
This tranquil passage takes you to Santa Luzia, following calm channels where herons, flamingos, spoonbills and other birds feed peacefully. It is ideal for meditative paddling, photography, or simply drifting in silence.
2. Heading West – Turquoise Waters & Local Life
Turning west, you reach the small fishing village of Arroteia.
Here the waters turn shallow and turquoise, creating a Caribbean-like effect — but this route is only accessible at high tide. It is perfect for leisurely exploration, stopping for a swim or enjoying a drink carried in your backpack.
3. Towards the Desert Island & Barra Entrance
Heading toward the Desert Island and the Inlet entrance offers striking views and a feeling of open-sea adventure.
However, one must be mindful of boat crossings in the main channel — best attempted during quieter hours, with our captain’s guidance on timing and conditions.
An Elevated Way to Experience the Lagoon
Kayaking and SUP at Villa Lage allow you to stop wherever you feel called — for a swim in warm shallow water, a moment of quiet on a sandbank, or simply to float and admire the shifting colours of the lagoon.
It is also a wonderful activity for bird watching, either solo or shared with friends and family. Early mornings often offer the most sightings.
Best Tides & Ideal Time of Day
Early mornings are magical: no wind, mirror-flat water, and the softest light.
High tide opens more routes, especially westward toward Arroteia.
Around sunrise or sunset provides gentle colours, cooler temperatures and fewer boats.
If unsure, our captain will advise the best tide and timing for your chosen direction.
What to Wear & Simple Precautions
Light sportswear or a swimsuit
A hat and sunscreen (even early in the day)
Sunglasses with a strap
Footwear that can get wet (optional)
A small backpack with water, a towel, and anything you’d enjoy during a pause
Precautions:
Avoid paddling against strong wind;.
Keep distance from the main boat channel unless experienced.
Always carry water.
Inform the captain of your route so he can monitor conditions.