Observation deck · Sintra, Lisboa
Cabo da Roca
The westernmost point of continental Europe, with cliffs about 140 meters above the Atlantic, an 18th-century lighthouse and a monument with a verse by Camões.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cabo da Roca
Cabo da Roca lies at the western end of the Serra de Sintra, in Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais. It is the westernmost point of continental Europe, on a cliff about 140 meters above the ocean.
At the top there is a stone monument with a cross and the verse by Luís de Camões: where the land ends and the sea begins. The cape's lighthouse began operating in 1772 and is one of Portugal's oldest.
Trails through low vegetation run along the cliff edge, with views toward Praia da Ursa to the north and the coast as far as Guincho to the south.
The wind is strong for much of the year, and the weather changes quickly, with fog coming in from the sea. The tourist office at the cape usually issues a certificate of visit to the westernmost point of Europe.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to an hour.
Best time
On clear days, for the view. Late afternoon usually draws many people to watch the sun set over the Atlantic, when there is no fog.
How to get there
It is about 18 km from the center of Sintra and about 15 km from Cascais. There are buses linking Sintra and Cascais to the cape. By car, there is parking on site.
Tip
Bring a windbreaker in any season. Respect the fences: the cliff edge is unstable.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cabo da Roca
Is Cabo da Roca the westernmost point of Europe?
It is the westernmost point of continental Europe.
How to get to Cabo da Roca?
By bus from Sintra or from Cascais, or by car.
Is it very windy at Cabo da Roca?
Yes, the wind is usually strong. Bring a jacket even in summer.
