Tourist Attractions & Monuments Portugal

From this Promotorium Sacrum where, according to the Romans, the setting sun made the waters of the ocean bubble, there remains only one red lighthouse that watches over the coast from the top of its cliff (80 m). Hot dog and souvenir stands are everywhere. Cabo São Vicente is a mental place, a way of being at the end of the world or, at least, at the end of the known world. In addition to the lighthouse museum, it is always interesting to observe local fishermen holding their fishing rods above 80 m of empty space. The place is simply wonderful.

This recent public lift allows you to reach the other public elevator of the Chão do Loureiro so as to easily access the castle.

From the church overlooking the town, you will find a small pathway built on a wooden footbridge that will lead you to the caves of Algar Seco. Here the rock seems to have turned into clay to form caves and secret passages in the cliff. Two staircases allow you to go down to continue your exploration and listen to the waves crashing against the edge. Feel free to continue outside the official steps to discover other caves. You will find a small snack bar and toilets on the spot.

Mount Santa Luzia dominates the city. On top of this mountain is the Basilica of Santa Lucia, a big grey neo-Byzantine cake from the beginning of the century which looks like the Sacred Heart of Montmartre, only smaller. Beautiful road to reach it, intimate and lined with pines and eucalyptus, a delight of smells and visions! The panorama is superb, with Viana do Castelo but especially in the distance and so close at the same time, the ocean and the sandy beaches. Access possible on foot, by car or by cable car.

Following the Ria from the city centre southwards, we arrive at the beginning of the road to Praia Barril. The beach is reached in 15-20 minutes by foot or by a small train. The destination is popular, especially on weekends, but its miles of sand will allow you to find a place to yourself. Barril was an old fishing village, and today it remains a tuna museum and an anchor cemetery that the boats left there when the fishing stopped. On site also a restaurant, a bar and two snacks.

Built on the site of the former Arab mosque, this cathedral (Sé) is an eclectic mix of different styles. One of the side naves was built in pure Gothic style, while the other two have many Baroque elements. You can also admire the tomb of King João II who died during a medical stay in Monchique (located about ten kilometres to the west) in 1495. However, his remains were transferred to the Batalha Monastery in 1499. Nice visit to an important building.