The Berlengas Islands, located off the coast of Peniche, are among the most fascinating natural destinations in Central Portugal. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this protected archipelago offers breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and an unspoiled environment that is perfect for nature lovers, hikers, snorkelers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
If you’re planning a day trip from Lisbon or exploring Portugal’s Silver Coast, visiting the Berlengas Islands should be high on your bucket list. In this guide, you’ll discover how to get to the Berlengas Islands, what to see, and the best things to do during your visit.
Berlengas Islands Quick Guide
| Information | Isole Berlengas |
|---|---|
| Location | Peniche, Portogallo |
| Distance | from Lisbon (1 h 20 min.) from Porto (2 h 30 min.) from Obidos (20 min.) |
| How to Get There | Ferry from Peniche |
| Average Cost | 40€ |
| Recommended Visit Duration | Half-day or Full-day Trip |
| Best Time to Visit | May to September |
| Best for | Nature Lovers, Hiking, Sea Activities, Wildlife Watching |
Where Are the Berlengas Islands?
o visit the Berlengas Islands, your journey begins in Peniche, a charming Portuguese coastal town famous for its spectacular cliffs, world-class surf beaches, and rich maritime heritage.
Peniche is easily accessible by car from Portugal’s major cities, including Lisbon (approximately 90 km away) and Porto (around 250 km away), making it one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon for nature lovers.
Once you arrive in Peniche, you’ll find several parking options near the harbor, including both free and paid parking areas. We chose the spacious free parking lot at Parque Central (2520-619 Peniche, Portugal), located within walking distance of the ferry terminal.
If you’re visiting during the summer months, we strongly recommend arriving early in the morning, as parking spaces can fill up quickly.
Visiting Peniche During the Festival of Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem
Between late July and early August, Peniche transforms into a festive seaside town celebrating Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem (Our Lady of Safe Voyage), the patron saint of fishermen and sailors.
During the Peniche Festival, visitors can enjoy live music performances, amusement rides, local food stalls, artisan markets, and cultural events throughout the town.
The festival is particularly famous for hosting Portugal’s only nighttime maritime procession, which has taken place every August 3rd for more than seventy years. On this special evening, dozens of decorated and illuminated boats from across the Leiria District sail out into the Atlantic before the celebration culminates with a spectacular fireworks display over the marina.
We had the chance to admire the beautiful nautical-themed decorations that local residents displayed on their homes throughout town, although unfortunately we missed the famous nighttime procession.
How to Get to the Berlengas Islands
But let’s get back to the real reason we came here: the Berlengas Islands.
All ferries to the islands depart from Peniche Harbor, connecting the mainland to Berlenga Grande, the largest island in the archipelago.
Round-trip ferry tickets cost approximately €30 per person (2024 prices), and tickets can be purchased online in advance or directly at the harbor, subject to availability.
The ferry crossing takes around 45 minutes and operates on fixed schedules throughout the day.
We opted for the noon departure because the weather forecast looked uncertain, and since we were staying only twenty minutes from Peniche, we took a relaxed approach to the morning.
However, we highly recommend taking the 10:00 AM ferry whenever possible. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the island before the hottest hours of the day and gives you more time to explore. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, as shade is limited across much of the island.
Return ferries usually depart at either 4:00 PM or 6:00 PM unless you’re planning to stay overnight on the island.
Official Ferry to the Berlengas Islands
The official ferry service to the Berlengas Islands is operated by Viamar.
The company mainly operates during the tourist season, from May through September, with several daily departures from Peniche Harbor. Thanks to its reliability and frequent schedules, Viamar is often the preferred option for visitors.
Alternative Boat Tours and Ferry Companies
In addition to the official ferry, several private operators provide transportation and excursion packages to the Berlengas Islands, including:
- Berlengatur
- Feeling Berlenga
- Berlengas Passion
These companies often offer combined experiences that include ferry transportation, guided boat tours around the island, cave visits, and free time to explore Berlenga Grande independently.
The crossing itself is much more than a simple transfer.
As the ferry leaves the mainland behind, passengers are treated to spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, Peniche’s rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and countless seagulls soaring effortlessly in the wind. It’s the perfect introduction to the wild beauty that awaits on the island.
What to See on the Berlengas Islands
Berlenga Grande is the largest island in the archipelago and the only one accessible to visitors.
The Berlengas Nature Reserve is often regarded as one of the oldest protected natural areas in the world. As early as 1465, King Afonso V prohibited hunting throughout Berlenga Grande, helping preserve its unique ecosystem centuries before modern conservation practices emerged.
Pedra do Elefante
As your ferry approaches the island, look to the left and you’ll spot Pedra do Elefante (Elephant Rock), a striking sea stack that can only be admired from the water.
Sculpted by centuries of Atlantic winds and waves, this remarkable rock formation bears an uncanny resemblance to an elephant’s head, with its trunk seemingly dipping into the sea.
Even before stepping ashore, the dramatic landscape, the vivid turquoise waters, and the rugged, wind-swept terrain hit you with an overwhelming sense of wonder.
Although visitor numbers are regulated, the island can feel lively during peak season. Several local businesses operate here, offering cave tours, kayak rentals, canoe excursions, and boat trips around the island.
Yet despite these activities, nature remains the true protagonist of the Berlengas experience.
Where to Eat on Berlenga Grande
Shortly after landing, we stopped at the small snack bar located just above the harbor.
The menu includes sandwiches, fresh salads, fruit cups, ice cream, and cold drinks—ideal after the ferry crossing.
A little further uphill, near the simple accommodations available for overnight visitors, there is also a restaurant serving more substantial meals.
Hiking to the Duke of Bragança Lighthouse
Several hiking trails cross the island, ranging from short scenic walks to longer routes that connect the main attractions.
We chose the trail leading to São João Baptista Fort.
To reach the fort, you’ll first need to climb up to the Duke of Bragança Lighthouse.
Located at the highest point of the island, the lighthouse was built in 1841 and continues to guide ships through the often treacherous waters surrounding the Berlengas.
The climb is moderately steep, but the effort is rewarded with stunning panoramic views over the island and the seemingly endless Atlantic horizon.
From the lighthouse, the trail becomes mostly flat before descending along the Caminho do Forte São João Baptista. The final section features a picturesque stone staircase winding between giant agave plants and watchful seagulls perched above the cliffs.
São João Baptista Fort
The São João Baptista Fort is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Berlengas Archipelago.
Built during the 17th century to protect Portugal’s coast from pirate attacks and foreign invasions, the fortress stands on a small rocky islet connected to Berlenga Grande by a beautiful stone bridge.
Today, the fort remains remarkably well preserved. Its weathered stone walls blend seamlessly into the surrounding cliffs, creating an atmosphere that feels both dramatic and surreal.
Just below the fort, we watched a group of teenagers repeatedly diving into the ocean, laughing and enjoying themselves so much that they almost convinced us to join them.
But don’t be fooled.
The Atlantic water here is extremely cold, even during summer, and only the bravest visitors will actually venture in for a swim.
Things to Do on the Berlengas Islands
The Berlengas Islands offer plenty of activities for every type of traveler, whether you’re seeking adventure or simply looking to relax in one of Portugal’s most beautiful natural settings.
Can You Swim in the Berlengas Islands?
One of the most common questions visitors ask is:
Can you swim at the Berlengas Islands?
The answer is yes.
However, be prepared for very cold Atlantic waters, even in the warmest months of the year.
Explore the Island by Kayak or Canoe
For adventurous travelers, renting a kayak or canoe is one of the best ways to experience the Berlengas.
Paddling through the crystal-clear waters allows you to explore hidden coves, sea caves, and dramatic rock formations that are inaccessible on foot.
The waters surrounding the island are home to a rich marine ecosystem. Depending on conditions and luck, you may spot colorful fish and even dolphins.
Visit the Famous Blue Cave
If you prefer a more relaxed activity, consider joining one of the boat tours that circle the island.
These excursions visit some of the archipelago’s most spectacular sea caves, including the famous Blue Cave (Gruta Azul), known for its luminous turquoise waters and mesmerizing light reflections.
Local guides often share stories, legends, and historical anecdotes that add another layer of fascination to the experience.
Stay Overnight on Berlenga Grande
Visitors who wish to extend their adventure can spend the night on the island.
Accommodation options are limited but highly memorable. You can choose to camp in the designated camping area or book a room in one of the island’s simple lodging facilities.
One of the most unique places to stay is São João Baptista Fort itself, offering basic yet unforgettable accommodation in a truly extraordinary setting surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean.
Is Visiting the Berlengas Islands Worth It?
Absolutely.
Few places in Portugal combine such dramatic scenery, rich history, protected wildlife, crystal-clear waters, and outdoor adventure in such a compact area.
Whether you’re hiking to a historic fort, kayaking through sea caves, watching seabirds soar above the cliffs, or simply admiring the incredible shades of blue surrounding the island, the Berlengas offer one of the most memorable day trips from Lisbon and one of Portugal’s most rewarding natural experiences.
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