Portugal Views Arrabida The Hidden Paradise Private Day Tour

Portugal Views Arrabida The Hidden Paradise Private Day Tour

South-westernmost Portugal denoting the meeting point of the European continent with the Atlantic has a plethora of places to divert your mind. Historical towns, the post-earthquake reconstructions, and the bona fide Portuguese traditions promise unmatched adventures. Nonetheless, if the best is yet to be discovered get ready to tick off the awe-inspiring Arrabida Natural Park on your itinerary. The protected area founded in 1976 and covering 108 km² is a far cry from fussy urban spaces giving its visitors the possibility to indulge in a fusion of lush mountains and turquoise waters. And then it's all about wonderful beaches making the entire trip all the more worthwhile.

Upon booking the tour with us, a personal driver-guide will provide you with a luxury car service from your accommodation to Arrabida and all the way your trip.

Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product

Stop At: Castelo de Palmela, Palmela 2950-997 Portugal

Standing high above the town of Palmela the namesake castle is one of the first points marking the outset of the Arrabida Natural Park. The complex comprises several constructions dating back to the 12-17th centuries among which are the Santiago Church, the Espacos Museum and the Castle itself. In view of a hotel presence on the site today, the complex boasts special custody and tourist flows year-round. Don't miss out on the spectacular views from over there.

Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Mercado do Livramento, Avenida Luisa Todi 157, Setubal 2900-462 Portugal

The tour continues to Setubal, a city that has long assumed the key role in Portugal's fishing industry. The bay area promises some amiable vibes. However, in order to delve into the local life rhythm a visit to the famous Livramento Market is almost a must. Enjoying the status of food and wine region, this market in Setubal has everything one can wish for. Fish and shellfish varieties come on top. Meat assortment and the local sweets follow. The joyful ambiance with multiple vendors is perfect for those interested in the Portuguese gastronomic delights.

Duration: 30 minutes

Pass By: Parque Natural da Arrabida, Setubal 2900-324 Portugal

Going deeper into the lush hills and mountains promises an unforgettable journey. The main goal here is to climb the Serra da Arrabida and the Serra do Risco comprising the highest peak in the area. The latter rises 380m high above the mainland coast and provides magnificent views over the Atlantic. Enjoy this marvelous escape!

Stop At: Forte de Santa Maria da Arrabida, En 379 - 1, Portinho da Arrabida Portugal

And then comes the Arrabida Monastery, the only religious construction in the Arrabida hills. The Virgin Mary Convent was established in the 16th century by Joao de Lancastre, the Duke of Aveiro, for the devoted Franciscan monks seeking some isolation. The complex containing residence, watchtowers, and two chapels adds up to the whole image of beauty and beatitude of the Arrabida area.

Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Cabo Espichel, Oeste de Sesimbra, Sesimbra 2970-738 Portugal

For even more desolation head to Cape Espichel being the westernmost tip of the Arrabida Natural Park. Here the raging waters of the ocean hug the rocky cliffs and display the nature at its best. Photographers and amateurs alike are going to take pleasure in the wonderful scenery. The only tangible legacy on the cape is presented by the hexagonal lighthouse dating to 1790 and standing proud still today while warning the approaching ships about the tantrums of nature. The latter has been one of the most pilgrim-loved spots since the 13th century.

Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Castelo de Sesimbra, Rua Nossa Senhora do Castelo, Sesimbra Portugal

The cultural heritage of the Arrabida area is equally enriched by the Sesimbra Castle. Overlooking the waterfront zone of the town, the castle offers the final Moorish construction prior to confessing the victory of the Christians in the 12th century. Upon climbing the height of 230 meters you are granted access to this extensive medieval complex. It comprises several towers serving as museums today and the Santa Maria Church. The latter stuns visitors with its azulejo decorations. Yet, the main challenge is the marvelous panoramic view making the entire complex part of the national treasures.

Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Portinho da Arrabida, Portinho da Arrabida, Setubal District, Alentejo

Although Portugal abounds with wonderful beaches, Portinho da Arrabida still ranks among the most beautiful beaches throughout the country. Located close to Setubal, the preserved beach area of the tiny fishing village displays some very impressive landscapes with lush green mountains and sky blue waters. Those who are fond of diving and swimming might well find their paradise here. The local Museum of Oceanography instead will make you examine various marine species in exchange for prohibited fishing in the area.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Jose Maria de Fonseca, Rua Jose Augusto Coelho 11 13 Vila Nogueira, Azeitao 2925 Portugal

The extensive tour of the Arrabida reserved area is supposed to make you experience the mouthwatering wines of the region. Lucky you! The first stop is Bacalhoa winery in a small town of Azeitao. The winery is housed in the 15th-century castle once owned by the royal family and is ready to welcome you for getting in touch with the local wine-making traditions. They are based on grape varieties obtained in different regions since the 1920s. The wine storeroom, its adjacent museum and beautiful gardens are a true delight. Plus, cabernet sauvignon, rose and port wine tasting on the site is going to add up to unforgettable experience.
A bit further is located another remarkable winery that is Jose Maria da Fonseca house-museum famous for its bottled wine – Periquita. Counting over 160 years, savoring Periquita made from Castelao grape is a must when visiting Arrabida.


Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Azeitao, Azeitao, Setubal District, Alentejo

f you have a sweet tooth, Portugal will never quit satisfying your tastes. Indeed, you can hardly find a similar number of sweet stuff in any other place than in this blessed country. The local pastry with its many varieties is available in various towns including Azeitao that makes part of our Arrabida tour. Tortas de Azeitao are made of eggs, lemon and cinnamon flavors and promise a delicious treat just like the crunchy yet light almond tarts. After savoring them you can tick off on your list one of the main parts of the Portuguese cuisine.

Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Azulejos de Azeitao, Rua dos Trabalhadores da Empresa Setubalense 15 Sitio da Bacalhôa, Azeitao 2925-495 Portugal

Portugal is rich in history, culture, and tiles. Azulejos are found almost everywhere forming, perhaps, the main image of the local architecture and decorative arts. The Azeitao-based tile factory will enable you to immerse in this typical Portuguese handicraft encompassing the influences of the Moors, the Chinese and other European countries. The local craftsmen will introduce you the old tile making methods dating back to the 16th century. You might well become the participant of the color application process. Azulejos de Azeitao are a pledge of a truly memorable experience.

Overwhelmed solely with catching up the tour segments? The best part still awaits you while wandering through the Arrabida protected area. After soaking up all this and much more, our driver will drop you off at your location.

Duration: 30 minutes