At the westernmost tip of the Peniche Peninsula lies Cabo Carvoeiro. Unusual geological formations, shaped by the sea over time, define this coastal headland. From there, you can look out over the sea and the Berlengas Islands; the cape is also an ideal place to observe seabirds. Coastal geology, sea views and birdlife reveal different aspects of the landscape here.
Nature between the cape and the island archipelago
The Berlengas Archipelago lies about 10 kilometres from Peniche and has been preserved as an almost untouched natural area. The protected area includes a 985-hectare marine reserve with diverse wildlife. The archipelago provides a refuge for numerous bird species to breed or stop over along their migration routes. The birdlife is as much a part of the islands’ character as their protected marine environment.
On Berlenga, footpaths lead to the caves and Forte de São João Baptista. From May to October, boats run daily from Peniche to the Berlengas; operators and weather conditions can affect services. So check the current timetable before you travel. Access to the land area of Berlenga Island requires prior online registration and a fee. Also check the current registration system before your trip.
Waves, dunes and coastal trails
At Praia de Medão beach, known as Supertubos, the perfectly shaped tube waves are regarded nationally and internationally as particularly good for surfing and bodyboarding. The Rota Natura do Oeste starts at Cabo Carvoeiro, runs south and passes the beaches of Supertubos, Consolação and S. Bernardino. A cycle path connects Peniche with Baleal and runs through a dune landscape. While the Rota Natura do Oeste runs south past three named beaches, the cycle path connects Peniche with Baleal and passes through dunes.
Baleal beach also has a distinctive geographical history: it stretches between two seas, making it look like an island; it was once, in fact, an island. Together with the dunes and coastal formations at Cabo Carvoeiro, it creates a varied picture of the landscape around Peniche.
Fortresses and remembrance
Construction of the Fortaleza de Peniche was completed in 1645; an inscription on the fortress gate confirms this date. In 1934, the Fortaleza became a prison for opponents of the Estado Novo dictatorship. Today it is home to the Museu Nacional Resistência e Liberdade, founded in 2017. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00; last admission is at 17:15. Check the opening hours before your visit.
On Berlenga, Forte de São João Baptista was built in 1656. It has been classified as a National Monument since 1938 and is maintained as accommodation for visitors. As overnight arrangements may change, check the latest information before making plans. The Farol do Duque de Bragança on Berlenga was built between 1839 and 1841 by Gaudêncio Fontana, who was then the chief director of the royal lighthouses.
Chapels and religious traditions
On the west coast of the Peniche Peninsula, the chapel of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios forms the basis of a Marian shrine. The nave and chancel are entirely clad in 18th-century blue-and-white tiles depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary. A side chapel is carved into the rock. The tile panels and rock architecture bring together two very different artistic details at this religious site.
On the north coast of Peniche, the Convento do Bom Jesus was a Franciscan monastery that was dissolved in 1834; only a few remains survive today. The Igreja de São Leonardo stands in the old town of Atouguia da Baleia. Dating from the 12th century, it is the oldest Christian church in the municipality of Peniche. Its chancel contains 16th-century paintings as well as the tomb of Dom Ãlvaro Gonçalves de AtaÃde, the first Count of Atouguia.
The devotion to Nossa Senhora dos Remédios is associated with annual pilgrimages. Another maritime religious tradition is the Festa de Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem, which includes annual celebrations connected with Peniche’s seafaring community. Dates and programmes may vary from year to year.
More destinations
Discover more destinations: Peniche, Serra D'el-Rei, Atouguia Da Baleia, Ferrel, Ansião, Figueiró Dos Vinhos, Bombarral, Pataias.
Go to the overview of the wider region: Leiria.
