Cabo Espichel is a promontory located on the west coast of Portugal, near the city of Sesimbra, in the Setúbal region. It is a place of great natural and historical beauty, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and an imposing lighthouse that guides ships sailing along the Portuguese coast.
The history of Cabo Espichel dates back to the 15th century, when a small chapel was built there to honor Nossa Senhora da Pedra Mua, the patron saint of fishermen. Over the years, the chapel has been expanded and renovated several times, becoming an important pilgrimage site for the faithful.
In addition to the chapel, Cape Espichel is also known for its huge fossilized dinosaur footprints, which date back around 150 million years. The footprints are a testimony to the prehistoric life that existed in the region and attract many tourists and paleontology scholars.
The Cabo Espichel lighthouse, which sits at the top of the promontory, was built in 1790 and is one of the oldest and most emblematic lighthouses in Portugal. At 32 meters high, the lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the coast and the ocean, making it a popular spot for visitors who want to enjoy the landscape and take photos.
Another point of interest in Cabo Espichel is the Ermida da Memória, a small chapel built in the 17th century in honor of the fishermen who died at sea.
The chapel is very beautiful and is located in a secluded and peaceful location, offering an atmosphere of peace and reflection.
In addition to the tourist attractions, Cabo Espichel is also a great place for hiking and trails, with several route options that offer incredible views of the coast and nature. There is also a beach that is difficult to access, called Praia do Cavalo, which is below Cabo Espichel and is one of the most beautiful and wild beaches in the region.
Access to Cabo Espichel is easy and can be done by car or public transport. There are also several accommodation and restaurant options in the region, offering visitors a complete and comfortable experience.
In short, Cabo Espichel is an unmissable destination for anyone visiting the Setúbal region, in Portugal. With its history, nature and incredible landscapes, the promontory offers a unique and unforgettable experience for all visitors.
How to get
To get to Cabo Espichel using public transport, you can follow these steps:
1. Take the metro to “Cais do Sodré” station (green line or blue line).
2. Exit the station and walk to the Boat Terminal (about a 2-minute walk from the station).
3. Take bus 207 from TST to “Sesimbra” or “Aldeia do Meco” (check the sign to see if the bus passes through Cabo Espichel).
4. Get off the bus at the “Cabo Espichel” stop (make sure to ask the driver to let you know).
5. Walk for about 15-20 minutes until you reach Cabo Espichel.
Be sure to check the bus timetables before your trip as they can vary depending on the day of the week and time of day.
Where to eat
Cabo Espichel is an isolated area in the far west of Portugal, so restaurant options are limited. However, there are a few places you can find food in the area:
Bar do Peixe Restaurant – Located in Aldeia do Meco, close to Cabo Espichel, this restaurant specializes in seafood and fresh fish. It has a pleasant atmosphere and a terrace with sea views.
I Love Espichel Restaurant – With a privileged view and well located, it has a relaxed indoor and outdoor space with an incredible view. It offers incredible options for meals, whatever they may be.
Espichel Roulotte Restaurant – Located in the Cabo Espichel Sanctuary, with views over the surrounding reliefs, the sea and the Lighthouse, Espichel Roulotte's main focus is Food & Drinks through a food truck.
However, it is important to note that restaurant options may vary depending on the time of year, and many establishments may be closed outside of the summer season. Additionally, it's always a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
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