Psstt… Let’s Travel around the world, a day at a time.
This Journey starts in the Western point of continental Europe, in a tiny, charming Country called Portugal.
If you’re looking for a travel experience that will take your breath away, head straight to Cabo da Roca in Portugal. As Europe’s westernmost point, this beautiful destination offers unrivalled views of the deep blue Atlantic Ocean and the sky beyond. This place has everything from windswept cliffs to secluded beaches like Ursa Beach.
As an avid traveller, I’ve explored many stunning locations, but Cabo da Roca is extraordinary. As you trek along the picturesque hiking trails or gaze out from the lighthouse, you’ll be transported into a world of peace and tranquillity. I can’t recommend this place enough to anyone seeking adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a genuine connection with nature. So pack your bags and go to Cabo da Roca – an experience you’ll never forget!
What to see in Cabo da Roca?
Cabo da Roca is a picturesque cape in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, about 40 kilometres west of Lisbon, Portugal. It is the westernmost point of mainland Europe, and its stunning cliffs and ocean views make it a popular destination for tourists.
Here are some things to see and do while visiting Cabo da Roca:
Lighthouse of Cabo da Roca
The lighthouse was built in 1772 and is still operational today. Although the lighthouse is not open to the public, you can admire its architecture and enjoy the views from the surrounding area.
Monument to the westernmost point of mainland Europe
Close to the lighthouse is a stone monument with a cross and an inscription by Portuguese poet Luís de Camões, marking Cabo da Roca as the westernmost point of mainland Europe.
Breathtaking views
The main attraction of Cabo da Roca is the stunning ocean views from the rugged cliffs. Take your time to explore the area and enjoy the scenery, but be cautious, as the cliffs can be steep and dangerous.
Hiking trails
Several hiking trails around Cabo da Roca offer a chance to explore the beautiful coastal landscapes. Some popular trails include the Rota Vicentina, a network of coastal paths, and the Ursa Beach Trail, which leads to a secluded beach surrounded by cliffs.
Ursa Beach
Although the trek to Ursa Beach is challenging, the secluded cove offers a tranquil escape from the crowds. The beach is named after the nearby Rocha da Ursa (Bear Rock), a rock formation resembling a bear with its cub.
Birdwatching
Cabo da Roca is an excellent spot for birdwatching, as its cliffs serve as a nesting site for various seabirds, including European shags, peregrine falcons, and common kestrels.
While visiting Cabo da Roca, you can also explore the nearby town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its romantic palaces, castles, and lush gardens.
Where to stay near Cabo da Roca?
Several accommodation options are available near Cabo da Roca, Portugal, from hotels and guesthouses to vacation rentals and hostels. Some nearby towns and villages that you can consider staying in include:
Colares
Located about 9 km (5.6 miles) east of Cabo da Roca, Colares is a charming village known for its wine production. You can find various hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals.
Sintra
Located about 18 km (11 miles) east of Cabo da Roca, Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. It offers many accommodations, including boutique hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and many attractions such as palaces, castles, and gardens.
Cascais
Located about 20 km (12 miles) southeast of Cabo da Roca, Cascais is a lively coastal town with many accommodation options, including luxury hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals. It also offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and beaches.
Estoril
About 23 km (14 miles) southeast of Cabo da Roca, Estoril is another coastal town with various accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. It is known for its casino, golf courses, and beaches.
Azenhas do Mar
This picturesque village is about 12 km (7.5 miles) northeast of Cabo da Roca. It features white-washed houses perched on a cliff overlooking the sea and offers a few guesthouses and vacation rentals.
When choosing a place to stay near Cabo da Roca, consider your preferences regarding budget, accessibility, and proximity to other regional attractions. It’s also a good idea to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, which runs from May to September.
Top 3 Hotels near Cabo da Roca
Here are three highly-rated hotels near Cabo da Roca, Portugal, offering various amenities and levels of luxury:
The Oitavos
Address: Rua de Oitavos, Quinta da Marinha, 2750-374 Cascais, Portugal
Website: https://www.theoitavos.com/
Located about 20 km southeast of Cabo da Roca, The Oitavos is a 5-star luxury hotel in Cascais, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. The hotel features modern, spacious rooms with balconies, an outdoor infinity pool, a spa, an 18-hole golf course, and multiple dining options.
Penha Longa Resort
Address: Estrada da Lagoa Azul, Linhó, 2714-511 Sintra, Portugal
Website: https://www.penhalonga.com/
Situated about 15 km east of Cabo da Roca, Penha Longa Resort is a historic luxury hotel in Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. The 5-star resort offers elegant rooms and suites, a 27-hole golf course, a spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and various dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Hotel Fortaleza do Guincho
Address: Estrada do Guincho, 2750-642 Cascais, Portugal
Website: https://www.fortalezadoguincho.com/
Located about 13 km southeast of Cabo da Roca, Hotel Fortaleza do Guincho is a 5-star boutique hotel housed in a 17th-century fortress overlooking Guincho Beach. The hotel offers stylish rooms with sea views, a Michelin-starred restaurant, a bar, and a terrace with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Cabo da Roca cliffs.
These hotels offer a range of amenities and luxury experiences. Still, booking well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, is essential to secure your preferred accommodation.
Where to eat in Cabo da Roca
There are no restaurants directly at Cabo da Roca. Still, you can find a small café near the lighthouse, offering snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. However, for a proper meal, you can visit nearby towns and villages, which offer various dining options. Some of the places to consider are:
Azenhas do Mar
Azenhas do Mar is a picturesque village about 12 km (7.5 miles) northeast of Cabo da Roca. Here, a few restaurants offer traditional Portuguese cuisine and seafood dishes with stunning ocean views. The Restaurante Azenhas do Mar is a popular choice, which serves fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes in a cliffside setting overlooking the Atlantic.
Colares
Colares, located about 9 km (5.6 miles) east of Cabo da Roca, offers a variety of dining options, including traditional Portuguese restaurants and cafes. Adega Viúva Gomes is famous for those interested in trying local wines and traditional dishes in a historical setting.
Cascais
Cascais, about 20 km (12 miles) southeast of Cabo da Roca, offers a wide range of dining options, including seafood restaurants, pizzerias, and international cuisine. Some popular choices include Mar do Inferno, known for its seafood dishes and ocean views, and Restaurante Dom Pedro I, which offers traditional Portuguese cuisine.
Sintra
Sintra, located about 18 km (11 miles) east of Cabo da Roca, is a popular tourist destination with numerous dining options. You can find traditional Portuguese cuisine, pastries, and international dishes in this historic town. Some recommendations include Tascantiga, a cozy restaurant serving local dishes, and Incomum by Luís Santos, which offers a modern take on traditional Portuguese cuisine.
When looking for places to eat near Cabo da Roca, consider exploring nearby towns and villages to find dining options that suit your taste and budget.
How to Get to Cabo da Roca
Cabo da Roca is approximately 40 kilometres (25 miles) west of Lisbon, Portugal. There are several ways to reach Cabo da Roca, depending on your preferences and budget:
By car
Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach Cabo da Roca, as it provides flexibility in exploring the region at your own pace. The drive from Lisbon to Cabo da Roca takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. You can follow the A5 highway to Cascais and then take the N247 road towards Sintra. There is a parking lot at Cabo da Roca, but it can get busy during peak season, so arrive early to secure a spot.
By public transport
You can take a train from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré station to Cascais, which takes about 40 minutes. From Cascais, take the Scotturb bus number 403 towards Sintra, which stops at Cabo da Roca. The bus ride takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Remember that public transport schedules vary, and checking the latest timetables before planning your trip is essential.
By guided tour
Several companies offer guided tours to Cabo da Roca from Lisbon, often including stops at other regional attractions, such as Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril. A guided tour can be a hassle-free way to explore the area, as transportation and sightseeing are organized for you.
By taxi or rideshare
You can also take a taxi or use a rideshare service like Uber to reach Cabo da Roca. However, this option can be more expensive than the other alternatives, particularly if you travel from Lisbon.
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, it’s essential to plan your trip to Cabo da Roca accordingly, considering factors like travel time, budget, and personal preferences.
Cabo da Roca in 4k
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What is Cabo da Roca famous for?
Answer: Cabo da Roca is famous for being the westernmost point of mainland Europe. It offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from its dramatic cliffs, a historic lighthouse, and beautiful hiking trails along the coastline within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
Question: How far is Cabo da Roca from Lisbon?
Answer: Cabo da Roca is approximately 40 kilometres (25 miles) west of Lisbon. The drive from Lisbon to Cabo da Roca takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Question: Is there an entrance fee for visiting Cabo da Roca?
Answer: There is no entrance fee to visit Cabo da Roca. However, you may need to pay for parking if you drive there. In addition, there might be additional costs for guided tours or other activities in the area.
Question: What is the best time to visit Cabo da Roca?
Answer: The best time to visit Cabo da Roca is spring and summer (April through September), when the weather is generally warm and sunny. However, it can get windy and foggy at the cape, so bringing a jacket and checking the weather forecast before your visit is a good idea. Also, remember that the peak tourist season is from May to September, so you may encounter larger crowds during this time.
Question: Are there any safety concerns when visiting Cabo da Roca?
Answer: While Cabo da Roca is generally safe, you should take a few precautions due to the natural landscape. Be cautious near the cliffs, as they can be steep and dangerous, and stay on designated hiking trails. Also, be prepared for sudden weather changes, as it can get windy and foggy sometimes.