The lighthouse
Since 1881.
Niamfrifruli — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Niamfrifruli — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Niamfrifruli — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Jorgestenopeico — CC BY-SA 3.0
A unique little village on a rocky headland between vast sand dunes and the Atlantic, with no paved roads and no grid electricity, its colourful wooden houses scattered among the dunes and ringed by wild beaches. It has been a national park since 2009. Private cars cannot enter: visitors leave them at the gate on Route 10 and ride open 4x4 trucks across the sand dunes in about half an hour, a journey that is part of the fun. On the headland stands a white lighthouse from 1881 that visitors climb for views over the village, dunes and rocky islets, while on the rocks below a big colony of sea lions and fur seals basks and calls. At night, with no city lights, the sky fills with stars. Many stay in simple guesthouses to enjoy the calm. Bring cash and a torch, as services are limited. The Rocha coast is wild and quiet most of the year and busy in January; the ocean is cold with strong waves, so swim only at guarded spots.
Since 1881.
On the rocks.
No lights.
Rocha coast; access at km 264.5 of Route 10
By bus or car to the gate on Route 10, then by 4x4 truck across the dunes in about half an hour; private cars are not allowed.