Cabo da Roca
After leaving the classy seaside resort of Cascais on Portugal’s Estoril coast, it’s time for something a little different. We need a place to stop for the night and a quick look on our Apps shows a possibility at Cabo da Roca, further along the coast.
It’s late afternoon by the time we reach this relatively remote location and it’s rather busy when we arrive. That’s because Cabo da Roco is a bit of a tourist spot and for good reason, as this seemingly exposed headland is the most westerly point in mainland Europe.
Lighthouse complex – Cabo da Roca
Driving into the tiered parking area brings a bit of a disappointment, it’s full and quite tight in places.
After a few attempts driving aimlessly around, looking out for a space to come free, we finally get a place tucked on the end of a row.
Above the parking areas is a lighthouse complex which takes pride of place on this isolated cliff.
We’re sure it’s ok to park overnight here, but we don’t want to take a chance without checking first.
Fortunately, there’s a tourist information office open, so a quick ask with the staff brings good news. Yes, we can park overnight on the tier where coaches don’t drive through. That’s good enough for us.
Atlantic views
After a while, the day visitors slowly disperse and we find ourselves in an empty parking area. As dusk arrives, so do a few other motorhomes, settling in for a night at this popular landmark.
When daylight arrives the following morning, we’re up and out of the campervan early. Thankfully, it’s before the coaches arrive, so we have the place to ourselves.
We follow short walking trails across the headland, which this time of year is coming into life with spring flowers.
Then again, we imagine how bleak the weather can be in times of storms and Atlantic swells. Thinking of ships passing out in the Atlantic, hoping for good weather.
The views from these cliffs across the Atlantic are far reaching, with the sea crashing onto the coast 140 meters or so below.
An Obelisk marks the spot
Of course, we’re here to see the westernmost point of mainland Europe and a stone obelisk marks the spot.
It’s a monument of photo opportunity and reminder of where we are in this remote corner of Portugal.
The co-ordinates are inscribed into the stone, this big attraction drawing in the crowds on our arrival yesterday now stands alone.
This early morning visit makes it easier to take in the scenery and of course the obelisk itself. Enjoying a moment to take in the significance of the location and absorb the surroundings.
Now, we’re ready to move on, leaving the westernmost point of Europe behind. Next it’s time to take a country route inland, over hills of greenery and forests of the Serra de Sintra to the tourist hot spot of Sintra itself.
More on that next time. For now, thanks for reading ‘Cabo da Roca’ and feel welcome to subscribe below!
Note: Our visit was in early May.
