This dive site, Pedra da Milu, is renowned for its vibrant underwater landscape, primarily characterized by extensive fields of gorgonians that create a stunning, colorful carpet on the seabed. Divers typically navigate along this gorgonian-rich bottom, exploring its diverse topography and searching for the iconic pelagic visitors. While there's no specific historical account provided, the site's natural beauty and unique marine life interactions make it a cherished spot for local divers seeking memorable encounters.
The highlight of Pedra da Milu is the frequent presence of Sunfish (Mola mola) or Moon-fish, which visit the site to be cleaned by smaller fish, offering a rare and spectacular viewing opportunity. Beyond these impressive pelagics, divers can also observe various species of Seabreams and Red breams, common to the Atlantic waters of Portugal. The most prominent flora consists of a large variety of gorgonians, which are soft corals, almost entirely covering the bottom and providing a rich habitat for smaller marine life.
The best time to visit Pedra da Milu for a chance to witness the spectacular Sunfish cleaning events is generally during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early autumn, when these pelagic giants are more prevalent in the area. Divers should be prepared for varying depths, with an average of 12 meters but a maximum of 25 meters, making it suitable for intermediate open water divers. Freedivers will also find the average depth appealing for exploration, offering good opportunities for encounters with both the gorgonians and larger fish.
