Sunset at the Edge of Europe

The bay of Cascais, the dunes of Guincho and sunset at the westernmost point of Europe.

An afternoon along the coast, ending at the westernmost point of mainland Europe: first the bay of Cascais, then the dunes and wind of Guincho and, finally, sunset at Cabo da Roca. There is little driving, and time to stop wherever you like. Made for couples who want to end the day looking out to sea.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Cascais

   Cascais was a fishing village until 1870, when King Luís began spending his summers here and the court followed. Today it combines the fishermen's beach, the Citadel, the pedestrian streets of the old centre and museums such as the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego. It is worth walking along the bayside promenade and stopping at a terrace café. Your driver drops you in the centre and collects you wherever you agree. Try grilled fish at one of the restaurants by the harbour, paid separately.

2. 

   2

   Praia do Guincho

   Guincho is a wide beach open to the Atlantic between Cabo da Roca and Cascais, backed by dunes and the Sintra hills. The almost constant wind makes it a favourite spot for kitesurfing, windsurfing and surfing, and it is a pleasure to watch from the sand. Take care if you swim, as the currents are strong and the water is cold. There are fish restaurants along the coast road, paid separately. Late in the afternoon, with the sun dropping into the sea, the light is beautiful.

3. 

   3

   Cabo da Roca

   Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe, a high cliff above the Atlantic with a lighthouse and a monument bearing Camões's line about the place where the land ends and the sea begins. There is little to do but look, and that is exactly the point: ocean as far as the eye can see and short paths through the low scrub. Stay behind the fences, as the cliff drop is high. It is lovely at sunset, but bring a jacket, as the wind is strong.

The essentials

Duration

4 h · Late afternoon

Pick-up

At your hotel. The final price depends on where you are staying; we confirm it when you tell us.

Included

The car and the driver, only for your group, tolls and water.

Not included

Entrance tickets and meals.

Who it is for

Couples.

The route