Psstt… Let’s Travel around the world, a day at a time.
On day four, we go from Peniche, take a boat, and go to Berlengas!
As a seasoned traveller, I can’t emphasize enough the allure of the Berlengas archipelago in Portugal. My visit to these enchanting islands left me utterly captivated by their stunning natural beauty, unspoiled landscapes, and fascinating history. From the moment I set foot on the pristine beaches, with crystal-clear waters teeming with diverse marine life, I knew I was in for an extraordinary experience.
Exploring the centuries-old São João Baptista Fort and discovering the unique flora and fauna of the Berlengas Nature Reserve made my visit even more memorable. The islanders’ vibrant, local culture and warm hospitality were simply the icing on the cake. I wholeheartedly recommend visiting the Berlengas for anyone seeking an unforgettable off-the-beaten-path adventure.
What to see in Berlengas
Berlengas, Portugal, offers a variety of attractions for visitors to explore and enjoy. Here are some must-see sights and activities:
Berlenga Grande
The largest island in the archipelago, Berlenga Grande, boasts pristine beaches, like Praia do Carreiro do Mosteiro, where you can bask in the sun, swim, or snorkel in crystal-clear waters.
Fort of São João Baptista
This 17th-century fortress on Berlenga Grande has a rich history as a strategic defence point. Today, you can visit the fort, admire its architecture, and even spend a night there for a unique experience.
Berlengas Nature Reserve
Established in 1981, this protected area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including some endangered species. Take a guided tour or hike along the island’s trails to discover the unique biodiversity and spectacular landscapes.
Farol Duque de Bragança
This picturesque lighthouse, built in 1841, is a great spot to take in panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea.
Boat tours
Embark on a boat tour to explore the archipelago’s intricate system of caves, caverns, and hidden coves. Some tours also offer snorkelling or diving opportunities to observe the vibrant marine life up close.
Birdwatching: Berlengas
It is a haven for birdwatchers, as it’s home to several species of seabirds, including the European storm petrel, the Atlantic puffin, and the rare roseate tern.
Fishing
With the rich marine life around the islands, fishing is a popular activity for locals and visitors. So join a fishing trip, rent equipment, and try your luck from the shore.
Stargazing
Far from the mainland’s light pollution, the Berlengas Islands offer incredible stargazing opportunities. Spend a night under the stars and marvel at the beauty of the cosmos.
Where to stay near Berlengas
While options for accommodation on the Berlenga Grande island are limited, you can find several places to stay in the nearby coastal town of Peniche on the Portuguese mainland. From there, you can easily arrange a boat trip to Berlengas. Here are some accommodation options near Berlengas:
Fort of São João Baptista
For a truly unique experience, you can stay at the 17th-century fortress on Berlenga Grande. The fort has been converted into basic accommodation, offering dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities.
Peniche hotels
Several hotels in Peniche cater to different budgets and preferences, such as the MH Peniche, Star Inn Peniche, and Hotel Soleil Peniche.
Guesthouses and B&Bs
For a more personal touch, consider staying in one of the many guesthouses or bed & breakfasts in Peniche, like the Casa does Castelo, KateKero, or D. Antonia.
Hostels
Budget travellers can find affordable accommodation in hostels like the Peniche Surf Lodge, Selina Peniche, and the Ferrel Surf House.
Holiday rentals and apartments
For more privacy and the comforts of home, you can rent holiday apartments or houses in Peniche through platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com.
Campgrounds and caravan parks
If you’re looking for an outdoor experience, consider staying at one of the campgrounds or caravan parks near Peniche, such as the Peniche Praia Camping or the Camping Forte de Cabo Carvoeiro.
Remember to book your accommodation well in advance, especially during the peak summer months, as the area can get quite busy with tourists.
Top 3 Hotels near Berlengas
Here are the top three hotels near Berlengas, Portugal, located in the coastal town of Peniche:
MH Peniche
Address: R. do Fojo 6, 2520-245 Peniche, Portugal
MH Peniche is a modern 4-star hotel offering stylish rooms, an outdoor pool, a spa, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.
The hotel also features an on-site restaurant and bar. It is located close to Peniche’s sandy beaches. It is just a short drive from the town centre, making it an ideal base for exploring the area and visiting the Berlengas Islands.
Star Inn Peniche
Address: Estr. Marginal Sul, 2520-227 Peniche, Portugal
This 3-star hotel near the beach offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. The hotel is within walking distance of Peniche’s town centre, where you can find shops, restaurants, and boat connections to the Berlengas Islands.
Hotel Soleil Peniche
Address: Estr. Marginal Norte, 2520-605 Peniche, Portugal
A well-appointed 3-star hotel, Hotel Soleil Peniche offers comfortable rooms, an indoor and outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. The hotel is located a short walk from the beach. In addition, it is within easy reach of the town centre, making visiting the Berlengas Islands convenient.
Where to Eat in Berlengas
Dining options on Berlenga Grande, the main island of the Berlengas archipelago, are limited due to its remote and protected nature. However, there is one primary spot for visitors to enjoy a meal:
Restaurante Mar e Sol
The only restaurant on Berlenga Grande, Restaurante Mar e Sol, offers a simple menu focusing on fresh seafood, including grilled fish, seafood rice, and other traditional Portuguese dishes. The restaurant has a terrace with beautiful views of the island and the sea. Remember that the restaurant operates seasonally, so checking its availability before planning your visit is advisable.
For a broader range of dining options, you can head back to the coastal town of Peniche on the Portuguese mainland, where you’ll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars offering a variety of cuisines, including traditional Portuguese fare, seafood and international dishes. Some popular places to eat in Peniche include:
Tasca do Joel
A well-known restaurant in Peniche, Tasca do Joel offers a selection of delicious Portuguese dishes, focusing on seafood and regional specialties.
Nau dos Corvos
Located near the Cabo Carvoeiro Lighthouse, this restaurant offers stunning views and serves fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese cuisine.
Restaurante Prainha
A beachfront restaurant offers various seafood dishes, grilled meats, and traditional Portuguese cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
O Pedro
A cozy, family-run restaurant known for its seafood, including the popular dish “caldeirada” (a fish stew) and other Portuguese favourites.
Remember that due to the remote nature of Berlengas, it’s a good idea to bring snacks, water, and any other essentials with you during your visit, especially if you plan to spend a whole day on the island.
How to Get to Berlengas
To get to Berlengas, Portugal, you will first need to travel to the coastal town of Peniche, which serves as the primary departure point for boat trips to the Berlenga Grande island. Here are the steps to reach Berlengas:
Travel to Peniche
Peniche is located about 100 km (62 miles) north of Lisbon. You can reach Peniche by car, bus, or train and bus. Driving from Lisbon takes around 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Lisbon’s Sete Rios Bus Terminal, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. If you prefer to travel by train, you can take a train from Lisbon to Caldas da Rainha or Óbidos and catch a bus to Peniche.
Boat trip to Berlenga Grande
Once in Peniche, you can take a boat to Berlenga Grande, the main island in the Berlengas archipelago. The boat trip takes 30-45 minutes, depending on the weather and sea conditions.
During the summer (usually from May to September), several companies operate daily boat trips to Berlenga Grande, such as Viamar and Berlenga Turpesca. However, boat services may be limited or suspended in the low season due to weather conditions. It’s important to note that the number of visitors to the island is restricted to protect its natural environment, so it is advisable to book your boat trip in advance, especially during the peak summer months.
Remember that the boat trip to Berlenga Grande can be rough, depending on the sea conditions. Therefore, if you are prone to seasickness, take the necessary precautions. Additionally, always check the weather forecast and verify the boat schedule before planning your trip, as weather conditions can affect boat services to the island.
Berlengas in 4k
FAQ
Is it possible to visit the Berlengas all year round?
While the Berlengas Islands can be visited throughout the year, boat services are more frequent and reliable during summer, typically from May to September. During the low season, boat services may be limited or suspended due to weather conditions. Always check the weather forecast and boat schedules before planning your trip.
Are there any restrictions on visiting the Berlengas Islands?
Yes, due to the protected nature of the Berlengas Nature Reserve, the number of daily visitors to the island is restricted to preserve its unique environment. Therefore, booking your boat trip in advance, especially during the peak summer months, is advisable to secure your spot.
Can I swim and snorkel in the waters around Berlengas?
Absolutely! The crystal-clear waters surrounding the Berlengas Islands are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The marine life is diverse, and the islands’ rocky coastline offers numerous caves and coves to explore. However, always exercise caution and be aware of the sea conditions before venturing into the water.
Are there guided tours available on the island?
Yes, guided tours are available on Berlenga Grande, allowing visitors to learn more about the island’s history, flora, and fauna. In addition to walking tours, boat tours take you around the archipelago to explore its caves, caverns, and hidden coves. Some boat tours also offer snorkelling or diving opportunities.
Is it possible to camp on the Berlengas Islands?
Camping on the Berlengas Islands is not allowed due to environmental protection regulations. However, you can find campgrounds and caravan parks in the nearby coastal town of Peniche on the Portuguese mainland. Alternatively, you can stay at the Fort of São João Baptista on Berlenga Grande for a unique accommodation experience or choose from various hotels, guesthouses, and hostels in Peniche.