12 lighthouses in Spain and Portugal you cannot miss

Satellite navigation systems have eclipsed lighthouses as tools for night navigation. However, the light from a lighthouse at night at sea keeps you company and is very evocative. Moreover, getting close to these stone giants from the ground is a worthwhile experience.

The Iberian Peninsula, with its history of Spanish and Portuguese sailors, has plenty of lighthouses that we encourage you to discover. Here’s a list of 12 lighthouses that you cannot miss:

1. Finisterre Lighthouse

Located at Cape Finisterre, which was considered by the Romans the end of the known world (finis terrae), the Finisterre or Fisterra lighthouse was built in 1853. It rises above the Costa da Morte, overlooking the Corcubión estuary and Mount Pindo. Its flash reaches 31 nautical miles (57 kilometers).

The building right next to the lighthouse was built to house the siren, known as the “Fisterra cow” for its strident sound, which served as a warning on foggy days when the light from the lighthouse could not be seen. The siren is no longer in use. Next is a building called “Semáforo”, which was built to signal the navy and is now a small hotel.

2. Tower of Hercules

The Tower of Hercules is the oldest Roman lighthouse that continues to function as such. It was built in the second half of the 1st century, although the current cladding corresponds to a restoration carried out in the 18th century. It is a World Heritage monument.

The interior of the tower, including the archaeological excavations, can be visited nowadays. It’s also possible to climb the 234 steps that lead to a viewpoint with fantastic views of A Coruña and the bay of Orzán, and even the estuaries of Betanzos and Ferrol. Next to the lighthouse, there’s an outdoor sculpture exhibition.

3. Lighthouse of Cabo de São Vicente

Located on the cliffs of Cabo de San Vicente, in the extreme southwest of the Algarve, the lighthouse was built in the first half of the 19th century, although since the 16th century there have been different defensive constructions and with the function of a lighthouse. Its flash reaches 32 nautical miles (59 kilometers). The views of the cliffs, which are like vertical rock walls, are spectacular.

4. Lighthouse of Cabo de Gata

At the southeastern end of the peninsula we find Cabo de Gata, whose lighthouse was built in the 19th century on the ruins of a defensive castle. The cape is part of the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Maritime-Terrestrial Natural Park. Next to the lighthouse, there’s a viewpoint where you can enjoy the views of this stretch of coastline bathed by the Mediterranean, and of the Arrecife de las Sirenas.

5. Lighthouse of Cabo de Santa María

Located to the west of Ilha da Culatra, at the southernmost point of continental Portugal, the Cabo de Santa María lighthouse dates from 1851, and has undergone works to consolidate its structure on several occasions, the last of which was in 1995. Its silhouette stands out on the island and contributes to the great appeal of the area.

6. Lighthouse of Cabo da Roca

Cabo da Roca is the westernmost cape in continental Europe, and is part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. The lighthouse, located 165 meters above sea level, has been in operation since 1772. It’s the third oldest lighthouse in Portugal. Its flash reaches 26 nautical miles (48 kilometers). The cliffs surrounding the lighthouse are spectacular.

7. Formentor Lighthouse

Cape Formentor is located in the extreme north of the island of Majorca. The lighthouse, which is situated 210 meters above sea level, has a 22 meter high tower. It came into operation in 1863, after an extremely expensive process due to the steepness of the terrain. The narrow and winding road that leads to the lighthouse is truly spectacular, with unbeatable views of the coastline.

8. Lighthouse of Punta de Teno

The lighthouse is located on the cliffs of Punta de Teno, in the northwest of the island of Tenerife. It came into operation in 1897, although the current tower is from 1978, and stands out on the cliffs with its red and white stripes. It is located in a rugged and highly attractive area. Next to the lighthouse, there is a viewpoint from which you can appreciate the cliffs and views of the island of La Gomera.

9. Trafalgar Lighthouse

Located at Cape Trafalgar, declared a Natural Monument, the Trafalgar Lighthouse was built in 1860 with materials from an old watchtower, and has been in operation since 1862. Today it has a range of 22 nautical miles (40 kilometers). The path to the lighthouse has to be walked on foot, on the sand-covered road and between the dunes, which allows you to enjoy the landscape and the tranquility of the place. The views are spectacular especially at sunset.

10. Favàritx Lighthouse

Located in a rocky setting of black slate that contrasts with the landscape of the rest of the island, the Favàritx lighthouse is one of those views of Menorca that you cannot miss. The tower, whose construction was completed in 1922, is 28 meters high and has a characteristic black band that runs through it in a spiral. On the road that leads to the lighthouse, you will discover small coves, and a natural raft known as Cós des Síndic that forms in case of storms or heavy rains and that is of great ecological importance.

11. Lighthouse of Punta del Caballo (Horse Lighthouse)

Hidden on the coast of Santoña, on the cliffs of Mount Buciero, this lighthouse was in operation from 1863 to 1993. To get there, you have walk for about 4 kilometers and descend the 685 steps that lead to the lighthouse, but the walk is totally worth the effort because the views are truly spectacular.

12. Lighthouse of Cape Carvoeiro

This lighthouse, located at the western end of the Peniche peninsula, came into operation in 1790, which makes it one of the oldest lighthouses in Portugal. It’s located in an area of cliffs with very striking rock formations. Next to the lighthouse there’s a viewpoint from which you can see the Berlengas Islands on clear days.

Did you know these lighthouses? If you visit them, don’t forget to search for nearby beaches in the app! You will surely be able to discover wonderful beaches. We hope this list will inspire you for your next getaways.