DominguesUrsa Beach is a natural wonder located near Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Continental Europe, in Sintra. It is undoubtedly one of the most stunning beaches in Lisbon region and throughout Portugal. With its remote and almost untouched setting, Ursa Beach maintains its wild charm, devoid of any supporting infrastructure along its sandy shores.
In order to reach Ursa Beach, one must park their car several hundred meters away and embark on a trail that is not easily accessible to all. 😉 While the viewpoint overlooking the beach is relatively easy to reach, the descent to the shoreline becomes more challenging, navigating narrow paths on the cliffs.
The striking feature of the landscape is the imposing seaside cliffs, which undeniably captivate visitors. Interestingly, the beach derived its name from the most pointed rock formation, said to resemble a giant bear, until rockfalls altered its shape some years ago.
Legend of Ursa Beach: Long ago, during a time when the Earth was covered in ice, a bear and her cubs resided in the area where the beach now rests. As the ice began to melt, the gods commanded all animals to leave the area. However, the bear, who had called this place home for as long as she could remember, defiantly refused to abandon her beloved territory. In response to her refusal, the gods decided to punish her. Instantly, the bear and her cubs were transformed into stone. While the majestic rock formation known as the Great Bear stands prominently in the sea, you will also discover many smaller rocks around it, representing her precious offspring.
Map with location of Ursa Beach
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When to visit Ursa Beach?
Visiting Ursa Beach can be a pleasurable experience on any day with decent weather. 😉 However, I strongly advise against visiting after recent rainfall, as the steep cliff descent to reach the sandy shore poses a serious risk of slipping or falling if the path is wet.
Note that I do not consider Ursa Beach suitable for typical beach activities or sunbathing during the summer. If that’s what you’re looking for, I recommend exploring other fabulous beaches along Sintra or Cascais coastline, such as the remarkable Adraga Beach slightly to the north, which also offers incredible sea caves to explore by the seaside.
Trail to visit Ursa Beach
I only know one way to visit Ursa Beach, and it is on a trail that follows the cliffs near Roca Cape. However, there are different route options depending on your available time and physical preparedness.
1. Easier trail to visit Ursa Beach
The simplest trail to reach Ursa Beach starts from Roca Cape road and offers two possible starting points:
- Starting Point 1 – the one I recommend.
- Starting Point 2.
The initial part of the trail is relatively easy, with almost no incline, leading to the viewpoint overlooking Ursa Beach at the top of the cliffs. Descending to the sandy shore becomes more challenging, with a section that other people equipped with a rope for your assistance. 😉 The return path follows the same route back to the starting point.
2. Trail from Roca Cape to Ursa Beach
For an alternative trail to visit Ursa Beach, you can start at Roca Cape, as shown on the map from Wikiloc below. The return path will pass through Starting Point 1, mentioned in the previous option.
In terms of difficulty, the main challenge still lies in reaching Ursa Beach itself, but consider also the slightly longer distance you’ll need to walk.
3. Trail from Roca Cape to Adraga Beach, passing through Ursa Beach
This is the most captivating trail to undertake, although it is also the longest and most challenging. It offers visitors the opportunity to explore not only Ursa Beach from Roca Cape but also the breathtaking rocky cliffs that separate this cape from Adraga Beach, including its stunning ocean viewpoints.
This was the trail I personally chose!
- Starting at Roca Cape, you can admire its lighthouse, incredible viewpoints, and unique rock formations. Remember, this is the westernmost point of Continental Europe.
- Following narrow paths along the cliff tops, you’ll eventually reach Ursa Beach. The descent to the sandy shore remains the most demanding section of the trail.
- Along the way, you’ll encounter two other remarkable beaches in the region. Aroeira Beach, located before Ursa Beach, may not be worth the effort as it is not as beautiful. Caneiro Beach, in turn, is visually captivating from a drone’s perspective, but accessing it by land may not be possible. Nonetheless, you can still enjoy spectacular viewpoints overlooking it. Caneiro Beach is situated at these coordinates.
- As you make your way towards Adraga Beach, be sure to take in the remarkable viewpoints of the beach, and check out Fojo dos Morcegos (Bats Natural Well), and Alvidrar Rock. When approaching Fojo dos Morcegos, please respect the wooden safety barrier. This natural well reaches the height of the surrounding cliffs (approximately 90 meters) and connects to the sea at its base. Interestingly, legend has it that the Romans believed the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks was a Triton playing a conch shell at the bottom of the well.
- Finally, you’ll arrive at Adraga Beach, easily accessible by car. If desired, you can arrange for a taxi to take you back to Roca Cape, shortening the trail from approximately 12 km to about 7 km.
- Adjacent to Adraga Beach lies the mesmerizing Cavalo Beach (Horse Beach), only accessible as the tide begins to recede. 😉 This beach features extraordinary caves and a surreal landscape that is truly captivating.
4. Ursa Beach Trail Photos
Next you will find more photographs of this trail and its main points of interest. 😉 I hope they pique your curiosity even further to explore that stretch of coastline. 😉
Roca Cape
Aroeira Beach
Ursa Beach Viewpoint (and descent!)
Ursa Beach (and its rock formations)
Ursa Beach (drone pics)
Caneiro Beach
Viewpoints on the trail to Adraga Beach
Adraga Beach
Arcos e Grutas da Praia da Adraga
Cavalo Beach
Accommodation tips to visit Ursa Beach?
If you haven’t already booked your stay in Roca Cape region, I recommend doing so now. You can either follow my suggestions below or click the blue button to search for available accommodations on your travel dates. This area is in high demand during the summer, so it’s best to make your reservations in advance. Consider staying along the coastal area between Guincho and Azenhas do Mar. 😉
| Accommodation | Score | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Charm Nature | 8.9 | Azóia |
| Quinta de Santo António | 8.6 | Almoçageme |
| Quinta Pedra Firme | 8.8 | Colares |
| O Meu Canto | 9.0 | Colares |
| Chalet Vitorino | 9.6 | Colares |
| Dream Guincho | 9.2 | Guincho |
| Hotel Fortaleza do Guincho | 9.0 | Guincho |
Tips and Precautions for Visiting Ursa Beach
- Consider the difficulty of the trail and wear comfortable hiking shoes. Keep beach sandals or water shoes in your backpack for when you reach the beach.
- Inform someone about your visit to Ursa Beach and the trail you’ll be taking. It’s best to hike with a companion.
- Carry enough water and food for your chosen trail.
- Don’t forget to apply sunscreen, especially during the summer when temperatures are high.
- Bring a bag for your trash and leave Ursa Beach as pristine as you found it, leaving only footprints in the sand. 😉
- If you plan to spend a full day at the beach, consider Adraga Beach, which offers easier access and more infrastructure. Why not follow my suggested trail from Roca Cape to Adraga Beach?
Don’t forget Travel Insurance
Always make sure to have travel insurance when engaging in sports activities and hiking in mountainous or coastal areas like this, where the risk of falls and accidents is higher. Opt for prevention against any potential mishaps!
More about Central Portugal
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