Silver Seahorse

Menu
✆ +351262247207

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve: The Berlengas Islands

– A trip to Portugal’s fascinating island archipelago –

Just a few nautical miles off the coast of Peniche, and clearly visible from the shore, lie the Berlengas Islands. Rugged cliffs, crystal-clear water, small coves, sea caves and the spectacular Fort of São João Baptista make the archipelago a very special day trip during your holiday at Silver Seahorse.
Die Festung der Berlengas in Portugal mit türkiesblauem Wasser im Hintergrund.

The Berlengas Islands at a Glance

Key facts

Where: Off the coast of Peniche, Oeste region, Portugal
What: Nature reserve and impressive group of islands, turquoise water, rugged rocky coastline, hidden sea caves, small coves, snorkelling & diving, boat trips, hiking trails, the historic Fort of São João Baptista, a lighthouse, diverse birdlife and unspoilt nature.

The Berlengas Islands are a protected nature area with exceptional flora and fauna and have been part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2011. They are ideal for diving, snorkelling, hiking and birdwatching. A particular highlight is the historic fort, parts of which are open to visitors.
Book your room now

The Berlengas Islands

The hidden natural paradise off Peniche

The Berlengas Islands lie about ten kilometres off Peniche and, despite being so close to the mainland, feel like a small world of their own. The islands are shaped by granite and metamorphic rock, steep cliffs, sea caves and small coves. The archipelago is also surrounded by a large marine protected area.
Here, you can still immerse yourself in a largely untouched natural landscape.
Nature is deliberately the focus here. Countless seabirds use the islands as a breeding or resting place. One of the most characteristic species is the common guillemot, known locally as “airo”, a rare seabird that has become the symbol of the nature reserve. You can also spot yellow-legged gulls and European shags.

The History of the Berlengas

Of pirates and religious retreats

Although the Berlengas are known today above all for their beautiful, unspoilt nature and crystal-clear sea, the islands have a long history. For centuries, their location off the Portuguese coast made them a strategically important point and, at the same time, a difficult place for shipping.

The history of the Fort of São João Baptista is particularly impressive. The fort was built in the 17th century to defend the island and was meant, among other things, to fend off attacks by pirates and other hostile forces.

Religious communities also left their mark on the island. A former monastery is a reminder that the remote location of the Berlengas played a role not only militarily, but also as a religious retreat.

Berlengas Sights

What you shouldn't miss

The small island has a surprising amount to discover during your visit. Here are a few tips on what you really should do when you’re on the Berlengas Islands.

Fort of São João Baptista
Probably the most famous sight on the Berlengas is the Fort of São João Baptista. It was built in the 17th century under King João IV and later used and restored several times. It sits spectacularly on a rock above the sea and is connected to the island by a narrow bridge. The walk there alone is an experience. Its unusual location makes the fort one of the most photographed spots in Portugal.

The Berlenga lighthouse
High above the island stands the Duque de Bragança Lighthouse, the lighthouse of the Berlengas. It was built in the 19th century to help ships navigate this challenging coastline. From around the lighthouse, you have an impressive view over the island and the Atlantic. The contrast between the white lighthouse, the dark rocks and the deep blue sea makes this part of the island particularly worth seeing.

Bairro dos Pescadores
A rather unusual part of the island is the Bairro dos Pescadores, the fishermen’s quarter. The small settlement was built in the 1950s to house the fishermen who worked on the Berlengas. Today it’s still a reminder that the island wasn’t only a nature and excursion destination, but was closely linked to fishing for a long time.

Praia do Carreiro do Mosteiro
The best-known beach on the Berlengas is Praia do Carreiro do Mosteiro. The small cove lies between the rocks and stands out for its clear, turquoise water. As you walk from the landing pier towards the cove, a beautiful view of the sea and the surrounding rocks opens up. The beach is perfect for a break during your walk around the island.

Der Strand auf den Berlengas Inseln mit glasklarem Wasser.

Hiking on the Berlengas

Explore the island on foot

If you really want to experience the Berlengas, don’t just walk from the boat to the fort and back. The island can be explored on foot along several paths. One trail leads from the Bairro dos Pescadores area past the lighthouse towards the fort. Other paths cross the island and lead to various viewpoints. This gives you a much better impression of the landscape and the unique rock formations.
Some of the paths are uneven and cross rocky terrain, so sturdy shoes and a sure footing are recommended.

The Berlengas Sea Caves and the Fascinating Underwater World

The island’s coastline is shaped by countless caves, rock arches and crevices. That’s why the Berlengas sea caves are among the most popular attractions on boat trips. Many operators take smaller boats along the coast and through some of the impressive rock formations. The additional cave tour usually needs to be booked in advance with the operators.

There’s plenty to discover underwater, too. The clear Atlantic waters around the Berlengas are home to numerous species of fish and other marine life. Here you can go snorkelling or book a guided dive. You can usually rent snorkelling gear directly from the operators.

Die Grotten der Berlengas in Portugal mit einem Boot.

By Ferry to the Berlengas in Portugal

How do you get to the island?

One of the most important questions when planning your trip is, of course: how do you get to the Berlengas?

You travel by boat from Peniche to Berlenga Grande. The crossing takes around 30 minutes on average, a little longer on the larger vessels. People often talk about a “ferry”, but depending on the operator, the connections are actually different smaller boats and maritime transport services.

Numerous day trips depart from the port of Peniche. Most leave in the morning between 9:00 and 10:00 am and return to the harbour at around 1:00 pm. If you prefer the afternoon, you can start your trip at around 2:00 pm and be back between 5:00 and 6:00 pm. If you’re after a bit more adventure, the nimble speedboats are an exciting alternative. They cut the journey time to around 20 minutes!

The exact timetable and connections always depend on the weather and sea conditions. In rough seas, boats don’t sail for safety reasons.

Our tip: As visitor numbers are limited, you should plan your trip early, especially in high season. Before you go, check the current departure times, weather conditions and access regulations. Our team at the Silver Seahorse reception is happy to help.

The Best Time to Visit the Berlengas in Portugal

Spring, summer & autumn

The classic season for a trip to the Berlengas is during the warmer months. At this time of year, boat connections from Peniche are at their most frequent and conditions are ideal for long hikes and water activities. Boats also run to the Berlengas in winter, though less regularly, as demand is lower and sea conditions aren’t always suitable.

Well Planned Is Half Experienced

Our tips for your visit

We recommend booking a cave tour right away when you make your reservation. Seeing the rugged coastline from the sea is a real highlight. Ideally, ask to be dropped off at the historic fort. From there, you’ll not only have an excellent opportunity to go snorkelling, but can also walk back at a relaxed pace and enjoy the remarkable nature and views.

With most operators, you can reserve snorkelling gear in advance. If you’d rather explore the underwater world by diving, you’ll also find dive schools in Peniche offering taster dives including equipment and boat trip.

For a trip to the Berlengas, pack sturdy shoes, sun protection, plenty of water, some food for a small picnic (though there’s also a restaurant on the island!) and a light jacket. Even in summer, it can get windy out on the open Atlantic.

Important: The Berlengas are a protected nature area. Please stay on the marked paths, don’t leave any litter and keep your distance from the wildlife. This special landscape can only be preserved if visitors treat it with care.

Your Boutique Hotel for Your Holiday on the Silver Coast

After an eventful day, you can unwind at the Silver Seahorse Garden Retreat. The hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the sea in a wonderfully idyllic, authentic village. The large, peaceful garden, the pool, the hot tub and the sauna invite you to relax after your day out.

Überdachte Terrasse am beleuchteten Pool im Silver Seahorse Retreat bei Nacht

Thanks to its location in Consolação near Peniche, the hotel is the ideal base for exploring the Silver Coast. The beaches of Consolação, Peniche and Baleal, as well as many other destinations such as Nazaré and Óbidos, are right on your doorstep. At the same time, you stay away from the hustle and bustle, surrounded by authentic Portuguese restaurants, and can enjoy the peace and quiet after an eventful day.

If you’d like to learn more about the region, you’ll find more inspiration on our blog about Consolação, Peniche, Nazaré, Óbidos and the most beautiful beaches around Peniche. Discover our rooms and your holiday home on the Silver Coast.

Book your room now

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About the Berlengas Islands

Where are the Berlengas Islands?
The Berlengas lie off the coast of Peniche, about ten kilometres from the Portuguese mainland. The archipelago consists of Berlenga, the Estelas and the Farilhões.
You can reach the main island open to visitors, Berlenga Grande, by boat from Peniche. The crossing takes around 30 minutes on average, a little longer on larger vessels. With the speedboats, you can cut the journey to 20 minutes.
The “Berlengas ferry” usually refers to the seasonal boat connections from Peniche to Berlenga Grande. Trips generally depart in the morning between 9:00 and 10:00 am or in the afternoon at around 2:00 pm and last about three to four hours. Departure times depend on sea conditions, so you should check the current connections before your trip.
The main sights on the Berlengas include the Fort of São João Baptista, the Duque de Bragança Lighthouse, the Bairro dos Pescadores, Praia do Carreiro do Mosteiro and the impressive sea caves and rock formations.
Yes. There are marked trails, including one leading from the Bairro dos Pescadores area past the lighthouse to the fort.
Yes. The clear water and diverse marine life make the Berlengas a popular destination for snorkellers and divers. You can rent equipment from the operators, and in Peniche you can also book a diving course at the Berlengas.
Yes. The best-known cove is Praia do Carreiro do Mosteiro. It’s small and picturesquely nestled between the rocks.
For a classic visit, plan half a day. That leaves enough time for the crossing, the fort, a walk, a cave tour, snorkelling and a little break on the beach.
The warmer months are particularly suitable, although boat connections and sea conditions are decisive. Regular boat services mainly run between May and October. However, trips to the Berlengas are also offered in winter when conditions at sea are safe.
Generally yes, but bear in mind that some paths are rocky and uneven. The island can therefore be more challenging for young children or people with limited mobility.
The archipelago has a very special geological, plant and animal diversity. That’s why the Berlengas are protected as a nature reserve and are part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The surrounding marine area is also protected.