In short: the Duque de Bragança Lighthouse was built in 1841 and stands at the highest point of Berlenga Grande, around 85 metres above the sea. It is the island’s most visible landmark and its best viewpoint over the Atlantic. You reach it on foot along the trails, in roughly 20 to 30 minutes from the landing point.

The most isolated lighthouse on the Portuguese coast

The Duque de Bragança Lighthouse is the structure you can see from anywhere on Berlenga Grande and, on clear days, from the coast at Peniche too. It came into service in 1841 and was named in honour of the Duke of Bragança.

It sits on the plateau at the top of the island, around 85 metres above sea level — the highest point of Berlenga. For almost two centuries it has been the reference for navigation in this stretch of the Atlantic, a coastline historically dangerous and responsible for a number of shipwrecks over the centuries.

Getting to the lighthouse

Access is on foot, along the marked trails that climb from the landing point. The walk up typically takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on your pace, over dirt path and uneven steps. It is not a difficult route, but it climbs steadily and offers almost no shade.

Bring water, a hat and shoes with decent grip. The wind at the top is nearly always stronger than down by the water, even on warm days.

What you can see from up there

The lighthouse plateau is the best viewpoint on the island. From there you can take in the whole of Berlenga Grande, the Fort of São João Baptista below on its islet, the Peniche coastline in the distance and, on clear days, the Estelas and Farilhões groups.

It is also one of the best spots to watch seabirds soaring over the cliffs, especially early in the morning and late in the afternoon.

Read our guide to the wildlife and birds of Berlenga

Note: the lighthouse is a working installation and the interior is not open to tourist visits. What you visit is the surrounding area and the viewpoint — which is where the best of the experience is anyway.

Frequently asked questions

When was the Duque de Bragança Lighthouse built?

It came into service in 1841.

Can you climb the Berlenga lighthouse?

You can walk up to the lighthouse and its surrounding area, which serves as a viewpoint. The interior is not open to tourist visits, as it is a working installation.

How long does it take to reach the lighthouse?

Between 20 and 30 minutes on foot from the landing point, uphill.

Is the climb difficult?

It is not technically hard, but it is a steady climb on uneven ground with almost no shade. In hot weather you will want water and proper footwear.

Want to see the lighthouse up close?

Our packages give you time on the island to walk the trails.

See our boat trips to the Berlengas

Duque de Bragança Lighthouse: the Berlenga Island Lighthouse