Cabo São Vicente

Called O Fim do Mundo, or the End of the World by early settlers, Cabo São Vicente, or the Cape of St. Vincent, is a place that exudes an air of mystery and legend. It is named for the saint, whose relics were buried here after he was martyred.

The landscape here is isolated and rough, in contrast to much of the developed coast of the Algarve. There are no historical buildings left, just crashing seas and towering cliffs, and beaches where huge flocks of migratory birds pause on their journey.

The mystery of Cabo São Vicente is locked in its past. Henry the Navigator founded his school for explorers here. Christopher Columbus arrived after his fleet was plundered by pirates. He went on to study at Henry’s school 1476, before sailing off to discover America.