The Rocha Negra — Black Rock — is a prominent dark headland rising above the cliffs east of the village. The rock's unusual colour comes from ancient basalt lava flows associated with the Monchique volcanic complex inland, formed between 135 and 190 million years ago. A coastal path runs from the village beach up to the top of the headland, where the views back over the bay and the village are excellent. The contrast between the black rock, the ochre sandstone cliffs, and the blue Atlantic below is striking.
Rocha Negra
Dramatic dark basalt headland with coastal path and views