Cabo Carvoeiro Lighthouse

Cabo Carvoeiro Lighthouse in Peniche guards the rocky western tip of the peninsula that juts out into the Atlantic. It is one of the oldest lights on the Portuguese coast and doubles as one of the best clifftop viewpoints in the region, at roughly 39.36° N, 9.41° W.

What is this place?

Construction was ordered in 1758, during the Pombal era, when the crown wanted the dangerous stretches of coast better marked. The lamp was first lit in 1790. The original tower stood taller than today's, and the structure was later rebuilt to a design by engineer Polycarpo Lima. The tower now rises about 27 metres, with the light sitting around 57 metres above sea level. These days its main job is guiding vessels toward Peniche's fishing harbour.

Before the tower existed, a warning fire burned beside the chapel of Nossa Senhora da Vitória, which has since been demolished.

What can you see at the cape?

• Cliffs and open ocean. From the area around the lighthouse you look down sheer rock faces and out across the Atlantic.
• Nau dos Corvos. A lone sea stack just offshore, visible to the north. Seabirds gather on it, so bring binoculars.
• Chapel of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. It stands close to the cape. Eighteenth-century tiles show scenes from the life of Mary, and a well-attended pilgrimage is held here.
• Gruta da Furninha. A cave reachable nearby, along the paths that follow the cliff edge.

How do you get there?

The cape lies at the end of the Peniche peninsula, a few kilometres from the town centre. You can drive or cycle, or walk along the coast from town. There is space to park near the lighthouse. The tower is a working navigation aid, so treat it as something to admire from outside; the surroundings are the real attraction.

When should you go?

Sunset is the favourite time, when the cliffs turn warm in colour and many visitors arrive to watch the light go down. In strong wind skip the edge walk: the headland is exposed and the drops are steep. With small children, keep well back from the edge.

What else is nearby?

The cape pairs well with a longer clifftop walk. In town, see the fortress and the harbour, where boats leave for the Berlenga island. Berlenga has its own, separate lighthouse out at sea, so do not confuse it with this mainland one.

Frequently asked questions

When did the lighthouse start operating? It was ordered in 1758 and first lit in 1790.

How tall is it? The tower is about 27 metres, and the light shines from around 57 metres above sea level.

Can you climb the tower? It is an active navigation aid and is usually admired from outside. Check local information before your visit if going inside matters to you.

Is it safe for families? The viewpoint is spectacular, but the cliffs are steep and windy. With children or in strong wind, keep your distance from the edge.