"Beautiful historic fort, magnificent views over the sea especially at breakfast."
Richard from United Kingdom
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"This is the most incredible bed and breakfast."
Debbie from United Kingdom
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"The Fort itself is charming, the area is beautiful and whimsical, very well located in Cabanas."
Leticia from Portugal
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"The fort is a truly unique place to stay and accommodation is excellent."
Voyager790195 from Spain
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"It was peaceful and quiet and unique."
Anna from Canada
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17th-century star-shaped fort guest house with ocean views in Cabanas de Tavira
Accommodations
Forte De São João offers rooms fitted with paintings, sculptures, and furnishings. Some suites provide spacious seating areas with plush sofas and air conditioning. The Moon Room includes a marble bathroom with a glass roof allowing guests to see stars at night.
Dining
Breakfast can be enjoyed in the breakfast room, which once served as a vaulted ceiling chapel. Alternatively, guests can have breakfast on the terrace while looking out at the Atlantic Ocean and Ilha de Cabanas. The on-site bar offers a selection of cold drinks, and there is an honesty bar for self-service drinks.
Location and Activities
The fort is located just 500 metres from Cabanas village, with local restaurants and shops within walking distance. Guests can access nearby golf courses, horse riding, and cycling routes. A short boat ride from Cabanas leads to Ilha de Cabanas beach, known for its white sand.
History and Eco-Friendly
The guest house occupies a 17th-century star-shaped fort that has been converted into an environmentally friendly property. The building retains its original star-shaped design and thick stone walls that keep interiors cool during summer. The property is surrounded by olive trees and offers views of the Ria Formosa natural park.
Must-do experiences
Savor fresh grilled sardines at Restaurante O Rolo in Cabanas.
Stroll the scenic wooden boardwalk along Cabanas beach at sunset.
Visit the charming Cabanas market for local produce and crafts.
Explore the historical Cacela Velha for stunning sea views.
Try the traditional chicken piri-piri at local favorite, O Cangalho.
Choose the room type you prefer
Forte De Sao Joao Da Barra features a mix of doubles, family suites, and larger suites across the Algarve, often with breakfast, flexible cancellation, and seasonal deals included
Moon Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Sunrise Room
2 persons
325 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Wind Suite
2 persons
410 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
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Rates & Room Availability Calendar
See today’s rates and availability for your selected dates.
Amenities
Forte De Sao Joao Da Barra provides amenities designed to make your stay comfortable and memorable
Facilities: Perfect
9.1/10Review score
General
Non-smoking rooms
Wi-Fi
Parking
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Wind surfing
Canoeing
Hiking
Horseback riding
Cycling
Tennis court
Golf course
Fishing
Services
Paid airport shuttle
Housekeeping
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink
Dining
Bar/ Lounge area
Business
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Board games
Spa & Leisure
Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Solarium
Room features
Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Bathroom
Free toiletries
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Location of Forte De Sao Joao Da Barra
Sitio Da Fortaleza, Cabanas De Tavira, 8800-595,
Map view
City landmarks
Beach
Cabanas Beach
3200 ft
Beach
Praia de Cabanas
3200 ft
Landmark
Costaboattours Passeios na Ria Formosa
2900 ft
Landmark
Parque Mata Da Conceicao
1.5 mi
Landmark
Golden Beach Club
1.2 mi
Landmark
Forte do Rato
2.0 mi
Landmark
Lacem Mar beach
1.4 mi
Landmark
Salinas- Ciclovia de Tavira
1.4 mi
Golf Course
Quinta de Cima Golf Course
2.0 mi
Island
Tavira Island
2.5 mi
Landmark
Praia da Ilha de Tavira
2.5 mi
Landmark
Sitio da Fabrica beach
2.4 mi
Landmark
Fabrica
2.3 mi
Historic Site
Tavira Castle
3.4 mi
Landmark
Historic town walk
2.8 mi
Landmark
Ponte antiga sobre o Rio Gilao
3.3 mi
Church
Nossa Senhora da Assuncao Church
2.8 mi
Beach
Cacela Velha Beach
2.9 mi
Landmark
Fortaleza de Cacela
2.9 mi
Museum
Tavira Science Centre
3.0 mi
Church
Ermida de Sao Sebastiao
3.2 mi
Landmark
Cacela Velha's Small Church
2.8 mi
Church
Igreja de Sao Bras
3.0 mi
Landmark
Praca da Republica
3.3 mi
Landmark
Forte de Cacela
2.9 mi
Church
Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo
3.1 mi
Bridge
Roman Bridge of Tavira
3.3 mi
Gallery
Tavira d'Artes
3.2 mi
Landmark
Statue Dom Marcelino Franco
3.2 mi
Nearby
Sítio da Fortaleza
Forte de Sao Joao da Barra
1100 ft
Restaurants
Restaurante Noelia & Jeronimo
2000 ft
Rua da Fortaleza Edifício Cabanas-Mar
Restaurante Pedro
2700 ft
Largo da Armacao da Abobora No 3
Sabores da Ria
2800 ft
Avenida Ria Formosa 12 Cabanas de Tavira
Cabanas Brasserie
3600 ft
Rua Ilha da Abobora no 01 Behind the new church of Cabanas
Pizzeria Atlantis
3300 ft
Avenida Ria Formosa 25
Restaurante Europa
3600 ft
Rua Mouzinho de Albuquerque 27-29
A Fonte
3800 ft
Rua Dr. Jorge Correia no. 7
Restaurante Dona Ines
4000 ft
Rua Capitao Jorge Ribeiro 30
Explore Cabanas De Tavira
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Forte de Sao Joao da Barra
4 minutes' walk
Historical fort offering stunning views of the coastline and a glimpse into local heritage.
Cabanas Beach
15 minutes' walk
A picturesque beach known for its calm waters and scenic setting, ideal for sunbathing.
Costaboattours Passeios na Ria Formosa
13 minutes' walk
Boat tours exploring the Ria Formosa Natural Park, featuring diverse wildlife and scenic views.
Golden Beach Club
25 minutes' walk
Access to a vibrant beach club with water sports and loungers for a lively day under the sun.
Kayaking in Ria Formosa
13 minutes' walk
Kayak rentals available for paddling through picturesque waterways and observing local marine life.
Yoga Sessions on the Beach
15 minutes' walk
Relaxing beach yoga classes offered regularly to refresh your mind and body by the ocean.
Biking along Salinas- Ciclovia de Tavira
25 minutes' walk
Scenic cycling paths perfect for biking enthusiasts to enjoy tranquil landscapes and wildlife.
Restaurante Noelia & Jeronimo
10 minutes' walk
Casual dining with a focus on fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Cabanas Brasserie
16 minutes' walk
Modern brasserie offering a blend of local and international cuisine, known for their creative cocktails.
Pizzeria Atlantis
15 minutes' walk
Family-friendly pizzeria known for its authentic Italian pizzas and a relaxed atmosphere.
Live Music at Cabanas
15 minutes' walk
Local bars featuring live music performances, perfect for enjoying a vibrant night out.
Cultural Festivals in Tavira
10 minutes' drive
Seasonal festivals celebrating local heritage with food, music, and dance events; family-friendly activities included.
Local transportation options
City Centre
Cabanas De Tavira 10 min · 2700 ft
Airports
Faro (FAO) 71 min · 29.0 mi
Portimao (PRM) 155 min · 63.8 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-20:00
Check-out
from 10:00-12:00
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese
Number of rooms:
10
Guest Reviews & Ratings
See what past guests have shared about their stay at Forte De Sao Joao Da Barra
Cleanliness
9.5/10
Comfort
9.3/10
Facilities
9.1/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.4/10
Location
9.6/10
Staff
9.7/10
Value for money
8.8/10
Pros
Fort location
Charming decor
Helpful staff
Unique atmosphere
Cons
Buffet breakfast insufficient
Restricted garden access
Guest reviews
based on 144 reviews
9.1/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.