Geology Route - West
The west coast of the municipality of Cascais is of particular geological importance because the rocky outcrops of the Mesozoic age have excellent conditions of continuity and visibility. It is possible to visit several geological sites in this area.
In the extreme NW, granites of the Sintra Igneous Complex are in contact with Upper Jurassic limestone. The Mesozoic sedimentary sequence is interspersed with several eruptive seams and can be studied practically layer by layer. The succession is interrupted by a fault, which brings the Upper Jurassic limestone into contact with the Early Cretaceous limestone.
In this area of the coast, we see geological formations of the Early Cretaceous outcropping from Boca do Inferno to Guincho beach.
Between Ponta de Santa Marta and Cresmina Beach is one of the most important examples of coastal limestone pavement in Portugal.
On this route, you can also see the Oitavos fossil dune, dating from the Quaternary.
Warnings:
The suggested coastal route is of great scenic beauty and very rich in scientific content, but as on any other geological route, certain precautions must be taken:
1. Visits to certain sections can only be made at low tide.
2. Avoid approaching the base of the cliffs, as there is always the possibility of rock falls.
3. Do not collect fossils as this may damage the outcrops.
4. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
5. The route is not suitable for toddlers or people with reduced mobility.
