Officially Cabo da Roca is the most westerly point in mainland Europe and is easily reached by the #403 bus from both Sintra and Cascais. The cliffs here rise a staggering 140m (460ft) above the crashing waves below and offer those walking along the cliff-top path spectacular views out to sea. The sunsets here are amazing. Standing on the foundations of a 16th-century fort is the Cabo da Roca lighthouse and an elevated cross bearing the inscription "land ends and the sea begins", written by Luís de Camões. The tourist office here provides visitors with a certificate to prove they have visited the most westerly point of mainland Europe.
Westernmost tip of Europe monument
Romans called Cabo da Roca "Promontorium Magnum". Right up to the Age of Discovery it was considered the edge of the world. Atlantic winds create a habitat for only the hardiest and low-laying fauna adding to the rugged beauty of the area. For visitors, the amazing panoramic views over the Serra de Sintra and the coastline are the allure. Precarious hiking trails of various lengths follow the topography of the headland. The cliffs below are constantly pounded by mighty Atlantic waves. This is an ideal breeding ground for the prized Goose Barnacles (Percebes), a delicacy in many local restaurants.
Located at latitude 38º 47´north and longitude 9º 30´west is a monument indicating the most westerly spot of mainland Europe. On it, an inscription says "land ends and the sea begins" written by Luís de Camões and a crucifix crowns the stone structure.
Visit the atmospheric town of Sintra on a full-day, small-group tour from Lisbon, then spend the day exploring the Portuguese coast, Quinta da Regaleira, and Sintra’s historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a mix of guided and un-guided time, discover romantic grottoes and colourful architecture, then get spectacular views to the Atlantic coast from the Serra de Sintra. Including pickup from centrally-located Lisbon as well as entrance fees at the Quinta da Regaleira.
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Walking within the Cabo da Roca area is an unforgettable experience for those who want to explore this impressive and rugged coastline. It’s here the westerly point of Europe and also the most westerly walk in Europe. With remote and tough access “Praia da Ursa” is the most beautiful beach in the area. Is just an unforgettable experience.
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According to your preferences, explore the Sintra mountain in a comfortable automatic climate-controlled van, free wifi and an audio guide in Portuguese/English. Choose from passing through the picturesque village of Sintra, Moorish Castle, Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira and Monserrate Palace until noon. Travel and visit the picturesque Azenhas do Mar village, on one of the Atlantic cliffs and get to know the westernmost point of Europe, Cabo da Roca. The perfect day ends in Cascais for a quiet stroll along the bay.
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Historical records date the fort ruins at Cabo da Roca from the 17th century. It was once one of many fortified structures forming a defensive line guarding the mouth of the Tejo and Lisbon beyond. The first lighthouse to stand here utilised the fort's foundations and came into service in 1772. It was the first new purpose-built lighthouse constructed in Portugal. However, the current 22-metre-tall structure originates from 1842. Standing 150m obove the waves, the lighthouse can shine its 1,000-watt 28 miles (46km) out to see.
Cabo da Roca has no buildings other than the lighthouse, the coffee shop and gift shop/tourist office. The car park here is free. Most visitors stay for 30-40 minutes, depending on how bracing the wind is. There's half an hour's wait between buses which route joins Cascais with Sintra. Try to time your visit for sunset to admire a true feast for the eyes.
Cabo da Rocha - Lighthouse
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From Sintra follow the N247 17km (10.5 mi) West via Colares to Cabo da Roca. | |
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• Carris Metropolitana bus #1253 leaves from Sintra Train station to Cabo da Rocha.
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