2024-09-28
Here’s everything you need to know if you’re thinking of visiting the Berlengas Islands. This is because I believe that a trip to the Berlengas Islands and the Berlengas Nature Reserve is one of those activities that should be included on your wish list.
The Berlengas archipelago is located just 10 km off the coast of Peniche and the beauty of the place is undeniable!
This group of islands is made up of seven islands and several islets and rocks, but the main islands are Berlenga Grande, Estelas and Farilhões, the latter of which is also known as Forcados.
So, we visited Berlenga Grande on a weekend when we also visited the Dino Park in Lourinhã and Cabo Carvoeiro in Peniche and it was a perfect itinerary!
So, will you join us on this journey through the not always calm waters of the Atlantic Ocean?
Trip to the Berlengas Islands
Since we wanted to spend as many hours as possible in the Berlengas, we chose a boat that left Peniche at 11:00 and returned at 16:00.
In other words, including the boat trip, we spent around five hours in the Berlengas.
We also took a tour of the caves on a boat with a transparent bottom that left from the pier, which I really enjoyed, but of course it took up some time.
👉By the way, did you know that the sea in Berlengas is considered one of the best places on the Portuguese coast for underwater activities, such as scuba diving?
During the tour, we decided to get off the boat near the Fort of São João Baptista, because we wanted to take the route through the interior of the island.
However, we could have extended the trip to the pier.
We visited the Fort and then got up the courage to climb the steps up the hill.
From the São João Baptista Fort we went to the Duque de Bragança Lighthouse and then straight on to the Fishermen’s Quarter, next to the campsite.
We spent about an hour on the beach by the pier until it was time to return to Peniche.
How to get to the Berlengas Islands?
We booked our place by phone with Berlengoeste.
However, you can find other companies that make the crossing near the pier in Peniche.
What kind of visit can we make on a trip to Berlengas?
We opted for the round trip and boat trip to visit the caves, but there are other activities available depending on the company you hire.
From what we saw, you can also go snorkeling and there are trekking groups that tour the interior of the island.
What tourist attractions can we find on the Berlengas Islands?
There is a hostel operating in Forte S. J. Baptista, and next to the pier there is a campsite, a café/restaurant and an aid station.
Berlengas Islands with children
Main difficulties we experienced on our trip to Berlengas with children
Seasickness on the boat trip
We’re used to going by boat and I didn’t mind when I was told to watch out for seasickness. I did it wrong because the boat trip didn’t go very well, so get advice from your child’s pediatrician about seasickness medication.
Suitable footwear
We did a lot of walking on the island’s trails, crossing unprotected bridges and climbing steps in ravines. There is no protection in many places, so it is essential that children bring suitable footwear to avoid accidents.
Pay attention to hydration
We were in the Berlengas in August, when it was very hot. We took water with us and realized that because of the heat and the long distance we walked, we perspired a lot, so it’s important to pay attention to hydration. Of course, children are more sensitive and require extra care.
Protect yourself from the sun
The archipelago only has undergrowth that doesn’t protect against the sun, so a hat and sunscreen are recommended for everyone, especially children.
Take some snacks with you
If you’re going to spend a few hours on the archipelago, it’s advisable to take snacks with you when you get hungry, as there is only one café/restaurant near the pier.
We hope that these tips will help you on your trip with children, but if you have any questions that you would like clarified, please leave a comment.
You May Also Like:
- Mafra, Portugal: 5 unforgettable places to visit in Mafra (UPDATED);
- The UNESCO Creative Cities in Central Portugal: Caldas da Rainha, Covilhã, Idanha-a-Nova, Leiria, and Óbidos;
- Dino Parque (Dino Park): The Dinosaur Theme Park in Portugal.
We are a Portuguese Family traveling around the world and sharing our journey and experiences at passaportenobolso.com. Here you can find plenty of family budget travel tips as well as practical information about numerous destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia and America. We have visited 30+ countries and we don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Follow our adventures on YouTube / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter / Facebook.
