Lagosteiros Beach

Category: Nature > Beach

District: Setúbal > Sesimbra > Sesimbra

Location

Praia dos Lagosteiros is located in Sesimbra, nestled at the base of imposing cliffs that define this section of the coast. This natural setting offers a scene of great beauty, where the ruggedness of the coastal landscape stands out.

Its geographical position on the Atlantic coastline gives it unique characteristics, marked by isolation and the strong presence of natural elements.

A Window into the Geological Past

Praia dos Lagosteiros is notable for its geological remains, which reveal a part of the history of life on Earth. On the surfaces of inclined rock layers, fossilized marks are visible, corresponding to the footprints and tail tracks of dinosaurs, creatures that inhabited this region about 150 million years ago.

Among these ichnofossils, it is possible to identify tracks from different types of dinosaurs, such as sauropods, large quadrupedal herbivores, and theropods, which were generally bipedal dinosaurs. The presence of these marks offers a unique perspective on the environment and prehistoric life on the Iberian Peninsula.

For a clearer observation of the footprints, the late afternoon light is often the most favourable. The shadows cast by the sun on the rock tend to accentuate the outline of the ancient impressions, making them more evident.

Characteristics and Natural Environment

Praia dos Lagosteiros is characterized by a coastline that, although featuring some fine sand near the water, is predominantly covered by pebbles. The scenic beauty of the place is undeniable, defined by the imposing presence of the cliffs that embrace it, creating a natural environment of great visual impact.

Due to its configuration and the nature of the surrounding terrain, this beach has a more remote and preserved character. Its access is known to be challenging, contributing to its atmosphere of isolation.

The beach's natural setting is part of marked hiking trails, allowing for an immersion in the surrounding landscape. The dinosaur footprint site found here is protected, recognized for its paleontological importance.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt