Cabo Raso, Protected coastal area in Cascais, Portugal.
Cabo Raso is a protected cape near Cascais on Portugal's Atlantic coast, part of the Natura 2000 network and a Special Protection Area for birds. Rocky cliffs drop directly to the sea here, and a lighthouse stands on the headland.
The lighthouse at Cabo Raso was built in the 19th century to warn ships away from the rocks along this stretch of coast. For centuries before that, the headland served as a reference point for sailors approaching or leaving Lisbon.
The cape is a well-known spot for birdwatching, especially during spring and autumn migration when rare species stop along the cliffs. Its open position on the Atlantic makes it easy to observe seabirds without needing to go far from the path.
The cape is best explored on foot along the coastal paths, which follow the cliff edge and offer open views of the sea. Wind can be strong here, so bring a layer and wear shoes with a good grip.
The cape is one of the few places in Europe where butterfly migration is visible on a large scale, with thousands passing over the cliffs each spring and autumn. This makes it a rare spot for those interested in insect movement, not just birds.
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