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Description
Berlengas archipelago has an ecological heritage with high conservation value, both in terms of its insular ecosystem that encompasses endemic plants, protected habitats and the breeding grounds of endangered seabirds, as well as the surrounding vulnerable marine ecosystem, one of the richest across the Portuguese coastal waters (quotation from link #1).
Berlengas archipelago is one of only two places in continental Europe where Atlantik boz yelkovani breeds. Berlenga Island is the largest island of the archipelago and can be visited year round. During the boat trip, which takes around 30-45 min depending on the type of boat, you can already spot several seabirds such as shearwaters, gulls and terns. Most species diversity is encountered during autumn migration (see also separate entry, birdingplace “Peniche”) and some of the birds also rest on the island during that time.
The dominant seabirds breeding on the main island are Gümüş martı and Karasırtlı Martı as well as Tepeli Karabatak. Further, yaygın alk, Atlantik boz yelkovani and Madeira fırtına kırlangıcı breed on the archipelago, mainly on Farilhoes islets further north, and can sometimes be spotted on the waters surrounding Berlenga.
Among terrestrial birds breeding on the island are Kara kızılkuyruk, Kerkenez and Gök doðan.
Next to the boat landing there is a tiny settlement with some amenities and an info point. The main path ascends to the lighthouse, passes the Old Cisterns and ends at the Cova do Sono viewpoint. After the lighthouse you can take a small detour to Fort Sao Joao Baptista. This itinerary is less than 4 km in total. On your way back you can leave the main path near the campsite to explore the northern part of the island on the smaller footpath (another 1.4 km). There are several places with great views for spotting seabirds. However, if you intend to bring your spotting scope and tripod, do consider that the terrain is difficult, and it is often windy. Once you are here, also look for the endemic Berlenga Wall Lizard (Podarcis bocagei berlengensis)! You can also book a boat trip around the island to get a better view of the cliffs and any nesting seabirds . Otherwise, bring your swim wear and enjoy the cosy beach near the landing.
Details
Access
Only accessible by boat from Peniche. Most ferry companies offer daytrips to the island, but you can also spend the night at the local campsite or at the local B&B, which has only 6 rooms so make sure to book in advance. Only some operators offer trips year round so check the connections at the local tourist office.
Terrain and Habitat
Grassland , SeaConditions
Rocky , Open landscapeCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
Summer , Spring , AutumnBest time to visit
Spring , Summer , Autumn migrationRoute
Narrow trailDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
Boat , FootBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Keep on the marked trails and respect the rules of the Nature Reserve! The weather on Berlenga is often better than in Peniche but be prepared for a bumpy trip as the sea can be quite rough even on sunny days.