When heading to one of the most popular attractions in Portugal - Cabo da Roca - most tourists limit themselves to just exploring it. And in vain! Not far from it, there is an incredibly picturesque and interesting place - the wild Ursa beach, which is considered one of the best in the country.
Unlike most similar beaches, it is not difficult to get there at all, and you can get there without a car: just a short walk from Cabo da Roca. Let's find out how to do it.
Why Visit Praia da Ursa?
This beach is not overcrowded with tourists but rather known to locals and nature lovers. If you are tired of the crowded beaches you see on social media and are looking for a more peaceful, nature-related experience, Praia da Ursa is precisely what you need. However, there are a few things to pay attention to:
- The path can be narrow.
- The weather can change quickly.
- The bears may not be real, but nature can surprise you!
How to Get to Ursa Beach
First, you need to get to Cabo da Roca. Ursa Beach is hidden from the eyes of tourists among high cliffs. If you stand facing the ocean, it is located to the right of Cape Roca. A narrow winding path leads to it from the main road near the bus stop.
The journey is about 1 kilometer long and takes around 30 minutes. Most of the path is easy to walk, and along the way, you will see breathtaking ocean views and some secret beaches. However, the last 200 meters involve a descent along the rocks.
About Ursa Beach
- The beach has soft sand and a convenient descent into the water.
- It is about 250 meters long and never too crowded.
Minor Inconveniences:
- Strong waves are common.
- The water temperature rarely exceeds 17-18°C, even in summer.
The Famous Rock Formation
The most picturesque rock on the beach should remind you of a bear. In fact, "Ursa" means "she-bear" in Portuguese. As this is a wild beach, you may encounter nude sunbathers, but they usually stay hidden behind rocks.
Final Thoughts
Most travelers spend just 1-2 hours at Cabo da Roca while exploring Sintra and Cascais in one trip. We recommend dedicating an entire day to Cabo da Roca and Ursa Beach to enjoy the ocean and nature in a relaxed manner.
Alternative Ways to Visit
If you're not planning to visit Ursa Beach, reaching Cabo da Roca by e-bike is easy. Renting bikes in Cascais through bikerist.com allows you to enjoy a scenic two-hour ride to the westernmost point in Europe.
Welcome to Praia da Ursa, one of Portugal's hidden paradises! This breathtaking beach, hidden in the magical nature of Sintra, is a true paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.
