Portugal is widely recognized for its natural wonders, ranging from extensive Atlantic beaches and imposing cliffs to natural parks, mountains and archipelagos of great biodiversity. In this article we will talk about Berlengas Island, located about 10 kilometers off the coast of Peniche, in Portugal, it is an archipelago formed by Berlenga Grande and several smaller islets, such as Estelas and Farírios. This island group is classified as a Natural Reserve, due to its sensitive ecosystem and the diversity of species it houses. Find out more about the paradisiacal island of Berlengas in this article.
Berlenga Grande is the largest and only inhabited island in the archipelago. It stands out for its rocky cliffs, crystal clear waters and natural caves, making it a place of interest both for its geology and wildlife. One of its most striking buildings is the São João Batista Fort, built in the 17th century during the reign of D. João IV. The fortification was built with the aim of defending the Portuguese coast against attacks by privateers and pirates. Currently, the fort has been restored and it is possible to visit it, and there is also the possibility of staying the night inside, although in a simple and rustic way.
The biodiversity of this paradisiacal island is remarkable, being an important habitat for several species of seabirds, such as the yellow-legged gull and the murre, a species at risk of extinction. The local flora includes several endemic plants, such as armeria das berlengas and herniaria, which are not found in other parts of the world. The preservation of these species led to the creation of the Berlengas Natural Reserve, which seeks to protect this fragile ecosystem.
Access to the island is by boat from the port of Peniche, with regular trips, especially during the summer. To avoid excessive environmental impact, the number of daily visitors is controlled, as the island has a delicate ecosystem. This limitation aims to preserve local fauna and flora, as well as the conservation of historical and geological heritage.
The most popular activities on the island include diving and snorkeling, due to the transparency of its waters and diverse marine life, as well as boat trips to explore caves, such as the Blue Grotto and the Flandres Grotto. There are also ecological trails that allow visitors to explore the interior of the island and its rocky landscapes.
All these qualities make it a paradise worth visiting, as can be seen from the comments of various visitors on websites such as TripAdvisor.
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