Discover Sintra

Visit Ursa Beach

Table of Contents

Praia da Ursa is a true gem of wild and natural beauty in Portugal. Its unique natural arch, folded by time and tides, creates a spectacular ocean view. The way to the beach through steep paths and narrow lanes is a real adventure that will leave an unforgettable experience. 

Ursa Beach is a relatively uncrowded and tranquil place to enjoy solitude and nature. This beach offers a unique experience unlike other popular resorts and is an unrivaled choice for those seeking true adventure and beauty in the wilderness.

Tourist Information

Ursa Beach Portugal is a true pearl of Portugal, located in the Natural Park of Sintra, near the highway N 247 towards Cabo da Roca. This beach is famous for its wild beauty, and its atmosphere can charm any traveler.

Ursa Beach is recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world according to the Michelin Guide. Its features include the huge bear-shaped rock that gives the beach its name, as well as a rock formation known as the Giant.

It must be remembered that due to its inaccessibility, the beach is visited mainly by nudists. The walk down to the beach can take 10 to 15 minutes, sometimes longer. Experienced tourists advise using the road south of the Cabo da Roca to reach the beach without any problems.

It is important to remember to be safe and bring the necessarities, including comfortable shoes, a waterproof jacket in case of rain, sunscreen and a first aid kit. Don’t forget food and water too, as this is a long walk.

Praia da Ursa is not only a place of beauty but also of adventure, so get ready for an unforgettable experience in the embrace of wildlife!

Interesting Facts

  1. Praia da Ursa Beach in Sintra, Portugal is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Its attraction is not only its unique landscape but also its relative isolation from crowds of tourists, which makes it especially attractive for lovers of secluded relaxation.
  2. Located next to Cabo da Roca, Ursa Beach is the westernmost beach in continental Europe. Its wild and unspoiled character makes it a place to enjoy nature in its pristine beauty.
  3. The water on these Sintra beaches is often with strong waves and dangerous currents, so swimming here is not recommended. However, many visitors come here not to swim, but to simply enjoy the beauty of the landscape and privacy.
  4. Despite the difficulties of access, Ursa beach Portugal is popular with nudists due to its remoteness and privacy. However, everyone who respects local rules and appreciates nature is welcome here.
  5. The legend associated with this place tells of a family of bears who were turned into stone formations for their disobedience to the gods. This Praia de Ursa adds even more mystery and mystical charm to the beach, attracting lovers of legends and history.

Open Hours

Sintra Lisbon beaches are accessible 24 hours a day. There is no time limit and you can enjoy its beauty at any time of the day.

Tickets

Visiting Praia da Ursa Portugal is absolutely free. There is no need to purchase tickets or pay an entrance fee. 

Address

Address: Rua de Sintra Sintra 2735-565. 

How to Get to Ursa beach

Getting to Praia da Ursa beach is possible in a few ways:

From Lisbon:

  1. Take the train towards Cascais to Cais do Sodre station. Trains leave home in 20 minutes.
  2. Upon arrival in Cascais (the journey takes about 40 minutes), walk from the station to the Cascais Villa shopping center, below which is the city bus station.
  3. Take bus 403, which goes to Sintra but stops in Cabo da Roca (less than 25 minutes).
  4. The bus stop is located next to the lighthouse. From there, follow the path to the top of the cliff above the beaches of Praia da Urça, which takes about 10-15 minutes on foot. You can also accidentally stop the driver at the stop just before Cabo da Roca to shorten the distance to the beach.

From Sintra:

  1. Take bus 403 to Cascais, departing half an hour from the train station.
  2. The bus stops at Cabo da Roca in about 35 minutes and you can get off there to get to Praia da Ursa beach.