Boca do Inferno (“mouth of hell”) is a cliff / rock just outside of the city centre of Cascais. The name is partly due to the shape of the cliff (a small cave created by a natural collapse of the rock) and the droning sound that the Atlantic makes when the water enters the gorge.
Especially in the winter months the water bursts into the gap with full force, giving a thundering sound. In the summer the water splashes in the open cave and is a bit less overwhelming.
Formed by erosion
Boca do Inferno was formed by erosion in the rock wall, forming a cave in the cliff. You have to imagine that it looks like the roof of the cliff has collapsed, creating this space.
Are you in the area or are you staying in Cascais? Then a visit to Boca do Inferno is a nice trip. Each wave is processed by the Boca in a different way. Before you know it you’ll be watching at this fascinating wonder of nature for more than 30 minutes!
Eating there
Restaurant Mar do Inferno serves traditional cuisine. There are also cafes at the Boca where you can get a snack and have a sit outside.
Public toilets are available.
How to get to Boca do Inferno
From the train station of Cascais it is about a 20-30 minute walk (2 km). This spot is also where the bike path towards Praia do Guincho starts. From the centre you walk via Avenue Rei Humberto II de Italia along the Marina de Cascais, from where you follow the coastline.
Boca do Inferno can be viewed at any time of the day.