Monte de S. Brás - St. Blaise Hill

It is a remarkable magmatic hill rising out vigorously in the middle of a landscape of dunes covered by pine trees, standing out and being considered for that a Mediterranean floral wood “island”.

All covered by dark-green vegetation the hill is visible up to 35 km being a seamark for sailors.

Its historical and natural interest is undeniable. Its connection to the Legend of Our Lady of Nazaré is recognized in the double nomenclature (St. Blaise and St. Bartholomew), derived from the relics of these saints that were brought here by King Rodrigo and Friar Romano.

At the summit, 156 meters above the sea level, accessible by stairs, the greatness of the panorama surprises and enchants the visitors; here stand the forest watching post and a small chapel with a single nave, a main-altar and a small sacristy.

The Hill deserves a closer look. The variety of the vegetation is proof of ancient floral associations, rich in Mediterranean elements. Among the vegetal species are the kermes oak, the strawberry tree and the heberdenia excelsa. In avifauna is possible to admire the Common Kestrel and the Common Buzzard.

It is also the place of a century-old pilgrimage to St. Blaise, each February 3rd, in a religious and profane festivity that sets the beginning of the Carnival celebrations. It is also a privileged place for the practice of Bird watching.