Berlengas Archipelago is one of the wonders of Portugal
Description:
The archipelago consists of a group of islands and coastal reefs located near the city of Peniche. The journey from Lisbon to the islands takes about an hour. It will take another 40 minutes to get from Peniche to Berlengas by boat. Wildlife lovers come here, because on the island you can swim in the crystal clear and transparent ocean water, sunbathe on the sandy beach, as well as visit an ancient lighthouse and a medieval fortress.
The island resembles a corner of paradise on earth. There is a huge number of seagulls here. They are, in fact, the masters of the fields. The flora of the island is unique. There are many plants that are not typical of this part of the world. Blue lagoons, rocks and the power of the ocean. Unreal beauty of water, unreal beauty of cliffs. An incredible amount of fish off the coast. There is an opportunity to kayak through the grottoes, and if you go there, do not forget the mask and snorkel pipe, there is something to see. There is an old fortress, now there is a hostel. And they book seats in a year. Berlengash is a truly paradise with an ancient fort, countless gulls, blue lagoons and fresh sea breeze. And the perfect place for relaxation and inspiration.
In 2011, the archipelago was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
From the pier we will climb to the lighthouse, which offers just stunning views of the island. Further, along the narrow path that is laid across the island, we will go to the ancient fort. This fortress, built in the XVIII century, perfectly preserved to our days. It once protected these shores from pirate raids.
Going down to the shore, we will be able to admire the transparent water, through which flocks of scurrying fish are visible. Beach lovers will be able to swim and sunbathe on the cleanest sandy beach. In summer, the ocean is calm and the water is warm enough for swimming. It's a terrible storm here in winter. The height of the waves reaches a height of 25 meters. That is why a visit to the island is only possible between May 22 and September 15.
We will visit the main attraction of Berleng Grande-fort St. John the Baptist. The monastery has existed on the island since 1513, when a group of hieronymite monks settled on the island. They built a monastery in memory of the dead sailors. But constant pirate raids forced the monks to leave the place. It was not until the mid-18th century that a fortress was founded on the island to protect the archipelago and coastal areas. In recent years, the fort has fallen into decline, but today the authorities have restored it. Now it is one of the main attractions of the island.
On the road leading to the mountain, we will climb the lighthouse, from there you can see magical views of the island and the ocean. After exploring the exotic sights, you can take a boat trip around the island. Excursion to the cave costs only 6.5 euros. Boats here are special, with a transparent bottom, so through it you can watch the inhabitants of the sea. The boat swims into a high vaulted entrance to the cave, glowing with pink granite. Great sight and unforgettable impressions! Fans of diving will be able to enjoy the underwater world of the archipelago. The ocean here is crystal clear, and therefore the dive will bring you unforgettable sensations.
It is time to return to the continent. The boat leaves at 16:30.