Regufe Lighthouse

Regufe Lighthouse (Farol de Regufe) is a red cast-iron tower on the seafront of the Regufe quarter in Póvoa de Varzim, northern Portugal. Locals treat it as the emblem of the neighbourhood as much as a piece of maritime history.

What kind of lighthouse is it?

The tower rises about 22 metres. Its cylindrical iron shaft is painted red and stands on a tripod of three iron braces, which gives it an open, skeletal look quite unlike the stone towers found elsewhere on the Portuguese coast. The lamp sat roughly 30 metres above sea level and reached 15 nautical miles. You may also see it called Farol de São Brás.

What is its history?

Construction took place between 1885 and 1886, and the light was formally inaugurated on 24 March 1892. The designer is not known. The lighthouse worked together with the Farol da Lapa as a leading line: when fishermen saw both lights aligned, they knew they were in the safe channel across a dangerous sandbank in Póvoa Bay. It was restored in 1995, switched off around 2001, and local reports say it was lit again on the evening of 23 April 2015.

Why does it matter locally?

Regufe is one of the six quarters of Póvoa de Varzim that take part in the São Pedro festivities in June. The lighthouse features in the quarter's imagery and parades, so a visit during the festival gives it a very different atmosphere. It stands near the coordinates 41.374 N, 8.755 W.

How do I get there?

From the centre of Póvoa de Varzim it is a short walk or drive north along the coast. It pairs well with a stroll on the seafront promenade and the wide town beach.

When should I go?

The tower is visible from outside all year. Morning or the hour before sunset gives the best photos, when the red ironwork stands out against the sky. Summer brings crowds to the beach, and June is busy with the São Pedro celebrations.

Frequently asked questions

Is Regufe Lighthouse still working? It was deactivated in the early 2000s, and local sources report it was relit in April 2015.

Can I go inside? We found no information on regular interior visits, so plan on admiring it from outside.

How tall is it? The tower is about 22 metres tall, with the light at around 30 metres above sea level.

Why is it red and open-framed? It is a cast-iron tower on a three-brace tripod, a lighter type of structure than masonry, and the red paint keeps it visible from afar.