Category: Nature > Beach
District: Leiria > Peniche > Consolação
Consolação Beach is located in the town of Consolação, which belongs to the civil parish of Atouguia da Baleia, in the municipality of Peniche. Its coastline is distinctly marked by the presence of the Fort of Praia da Consolação, a historic fortress that divides the sandy beach into two distinct areas, each with its own characteristics and environment, facing north and south.
This unique beach offers two distinct coastal experiences, separated by the imposing structure of the fort. The portion south of the fort is defined by its rock formations, while the area to the north extends into a vast sandy expanse. This natural division provides varied landscapes and activities, suitable for different preferences of visitors.
On the south side of Consolação Beach, the presence of a sheltered cove, with rocks and strong sun exposure, creates natural conditions said to be beneficial for health. This area is particularly known for its richness in iodine, concentrated in the waters and marine atmosphere, which attracts people seeking relief from bone and rheumatic ailments. This combination of natural elements is considered to offer unique therapeutic properties in Europe, providing a wellness experience in contact with the sea.
In contrast to the south zone, the north side of the fort reveals a different panorama. Here, the beach stretches into a wide and extensive sandy area that follows the coastline towards Peniche. This section of the beach is bathed by an ocean with stronger waves, making it a prime spot for water sports such as surfing and windsurfing. The sand, on this side, is notably coarser than usual in the region.
Beyond its natural peculiarities, Consolação Beach holds traces of both remote and recent history. The rocks upon which the Fort of Consolação was built are about 155 million years old, dating back to the Upper Jurassic period. On the northern sandy area, inclined limestone layers with fossils of shells, corals, and sea urchins can be observed, testimonies to an ancient tropical sea. In this same area, grayish clays reveal small aligned, almost circular depressions, which are interpreted as dinosaur footprints. The fort itself, classified as a National Monument, evokes periods of coastal defense, having been built between 1641 and 1645 in the context of the Portuguese Restoration War for Independence.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.3266897,-9.3592691
Coordinates DMS: 39°19'36.1"N 09°21'33.4"W
Weather Consolação
On-duty Pharmacy Consolação
