Category: Nature > Beach
District: Lisboa > Cascais > Praia das Avencas > Junqueiro
Located on the coast of Cascais, in the coastal area of Junqueiro, Praia das Avencas is embraced by a set of imposing cliffs. This natural setting gives it a unique atmosphere and a wide view of the Atlantic Ocean. Access to the sandy beach is via a staircase, which leads visitors down to the moderately sized stretch of sand.
The beauty of Praia das Avencas lies, in large part, in its geological features. The cliffs that define it are a striking visual element, with rock strata that unfold in a particular way, resembling a natural staircase. This formation offers a unique perspective on coastal dynamics and the geological history of the place, making it a point of interest for those who appreciate unique coastal landscapes.
In addition to its scenic beauty, Praia das Avencas has significant ecological value. The rocky platforms and the sandy area were classified, in 1998, as a Bio-physical Interest Zone of Avencas (ZIBA). This recognition was later expanded, and the site is now known as the Avencas Protected Marine Area. It stands out as the first marine protected area in the country to be managed at a local level, underscoring the importance of its biodiversity and the concern for the conservation of its ecosystem.
The name of the beach refers to a plant, the Avenca, found in the region. This botanical species, with a long tradition of medicinal use in Portugal, lends its name to the beach, establishing a link between the place and the flora that characterizes it. This detail adds a cultural and historical note to the visit, inviting discovery of the natural particularities of the area.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.6882603,-9.360624
Coordinates DMS: 38°41'17.7"N 09°21'38.2"W