Arrabida, Sesimbra Setubal, Palmela
Program
We leave Lisbon crossing “25 Abril”
bridge over Tagus river and have a superb view.
As we approach the countryside we will be pleasantly surprised
by a unique scenery of huge pine forests, eucalyptus and cork trees.
We go up the hill to visit the XII century castle of Sesimbra,
lying at the foothills of Serra da Arrábida.
Stop to enjoy the beautiful view over the ocean, Sesimbra
beach and scenery of this picturesque fishing town.
Sightseeing of Sesimbra, seaside resort with crystal clear
water and where we can have a glimpse of the fishing port, to see fishermen
unloading the catch.
Not far we have Espichel cape. Tourists are drawn there due to
breathtaking views on its cliffs facing the Atlantic Ocean. The location is
famous for a sanctuary complex built extremely close to the edge of the tall cliffs.
We proceed to Azeitão - famous for its wine cellar, where we can stop for a
guided visit to this antique muscatel wine producer and wine tasting.
Not far, we can visit a factory of glazed tiles, where we’ll
be shown the way glazed tiles are handmade.
We then go up to Arrabida mountain - a
unique nature reserve on the highest cliffs of the Portuguese coast, providing
splendid panoramic views over Lisbon, Setubal, Sado river estuary, Troia
peninsula and the ocean.
Arrábida Natural Park is a beautiful protected area covered
with pine trees and rich Mediterranean vegetation, including many rare species.
Down below, the crystal-clear waters of the sheltered snow-white sandy beaches.
This promenade will let us see from the road the old farms,
once the dwelling of noblemen from Lisbon.
Stop at Setubal, an important fishing harbour, where once
again we can watch the typical Portuguese fishing boats. On the Rio Sado
waterfront are the docks, the marina and the fishing harbor, where brisk
auctions take place every morning when the fishermen have unloaded the day's
catch.
This town could be a nice place to stop for lunch and your
guide will suggest you a good restaurant where you can try the delicious local cuisine
based on fish and shellfish dishes.
In the afternoon we can go up to São Filipe Castle (housing
today a state inn). Once a 17th Century Fortress, the Hotel Pousada de
Setubal is on a hilltop overlooking the city and the river.
Between Setubal and Lisbon we have another castle, Palmela.
Located on top of an imposing hill, it affords one of the most impressive panoramic
views in the area. Inside the castle there is also a pousada where you may wish
to try a glass of the local Palmela wine.
Travel back to Lisbon by Vasco da Gama bridge, 12 km long, for
another unforgettable view of the city and one of the widest estuaries in the
world.