Posto de Observação

A short detour to a lost place at the Cape.

Let’s start with the lighthouse, where you can either park or take a few steps from the memorial: in the 15th century, the Blue Coast was still called the ”Black Coast” — so the monks set up a beacon. The tower itself dates back to the Pombaline era. Details about the lighting are for enthusiasts, who will get a competent explanation: the history of the technology, which began with 100 barrels of olive oil for illumination. Today, a system of mirror lenses serves as auxiliary navigation for flights to Lisbon. There are 150 steps to the top. You can enter if you visit on Wednesdays after lunch, except when it’s closed. Helpful, we know.

Behind the tower, there’s a short walk through the prairie to a coast guard station from Salazar’s era. Grandma and Grandpa still remember the signal horns for the fishermen, which always sounded when the seas got too rough or bad weather approached. Very few people, great photos, and the big question: why hasn’t anyone turned this into a restaurant?