A beautiful island range you’ve probably never heard of is known to be like paradise, and you really must consider visiting when you’re next in Portugal.
The small archipelago of granite islands has been designated as a nature reserve since 1465, meaning you can see beautiful local fauna and flora, including some stunning sea birds.
While there is not so much plant life due to its rocky nature, the Berlengas Islands, just off the southern west coast, have abundant reserves of marine life too, like mackerel, mullet and swordfish.
Tourists are often treated to fresh fish for lunch, while tour guides take them around the many spine-tingling caves on offer – one review on Tripadvisor admitted the travel from Lisbon was absolutely “worth it”, as she described the “crystal clear water” and “amazing sand”.
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The archipelago is made up of Berlenga Grande – the main island – and two sets of smaller islets. Because of its designation as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves by UNESCO, the Berlengas are usually only visited by scientists – but a lucky small number of tourists are allowed in each summer too.
Just a forty-five minute boat ride away from the mainland town of Peniche, the islands have gorgeous summer temperatures.
You can soak up the sun on various beaches, including Berlenga Grande Beach with its golden sands and turquoise waters, tucked into a cosy cove, or relax on the equally magnificent Gamboa Beach.
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Tourists are also recommended to visit the Fort of Sao Joao Baptista – a defensive military structure built from stone as early as 1502.
The approach to the fort is probably the most magical part – a raised stone pathway over the sea winds its way around rocks, leaving you gazing out at the scenery.
Described as having helped Portugal “fight off pirates for centuries”, one reviewer from California said you can stay inside the fort as it has a hostel inside.
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