Imagine a place where crystal clear turquoise waters meet the dense green rolling hills, creating the perfect paradise for nature lovers and culture seekers! Whether you’re in Lisbon and want a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle or traveling south to the Algarve, Setúbal and the Arrábida region is the ideal stop to relax and explore these true gems. Both offer a blend of charming seaside towns, rich historical heritage, and stunning natural landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Delve into scenic trails with their diverse wildlife and secret coves, and savor the freshly grilled fish that defines the local gastronomy.
Discover what makes Setúbal and Arrábida a must-visit coastal paradise!
From being an old fishing village, where it came to be an important trading port in Portugal, Setúbal has transformed into a picturesque town that warmly welcomes visitors with colorful buildings, well preserved cobblestone streets and lively squares.
Walking along the main pedestrian street, you will find the Mercado do Livramento, a renowned market with the best fresh fish, local produce and handcraft goods. For curious eyes, the interior features traditional Portuguese tile panels that depict stories of past economic activities. Beyond the market, there are other sites that are well worth your passage, such as the São Filipe Fortress, giving you a wonderful scenic view to the town below touching the sea, perfect to soak in the moment. To dive into the relaxed coastal vibe, you can stroll around the waterfront promenade, admiring the fishing boats and calm waters.
The Arrábida Nature park is a sanctuary of breathtaking natural beauty with a mix of relaxation and adventure! In this region, you will be greeted with jaw-dropping views upon its dramatic cliffs, beautiful crystal waters and pristine beaches, such as Praia da Figueirinha and Portinho da Arrábida. Both these spots are perfect for swimming in the clear waters, snorkeling or simply sunbathing.
If you’re a biking and hiking enthusiast, the park offers a variety of trails with its panoramic views and the opportunity to gain insight into the rich flora and fauna on exciting guided tours. Nestled in the hills is the Convent of Arrábida, a serene 16th-century historic site, secluded within the heart of the mountain.
This natural park is a true gem that captivates all visitors with its charm and scenic beauty.
Classified as a National Monument, Palmela Castle is a magnificent fortified complex, featuring some of the most impressive medieval fortifications. Situated on top of a hill, this complex was strategically built to provide a privileged view over the region, offering panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards, the town of Setúbal and the Peninsula of Troia. On clear sunny days, you can even catch a glimpse of the city of Lisbon along the Tagus River from across the castle.
The history dates back to the 12th-century, when the first king of Portugal conquered the fortress in 1147. Over the years, it gained its importance when it was handed over to one of the most important military orders in the history of Portugal, the Order of Santiago.
Today, the Palmela Castle stands as one of the region’s most important historical landmarks, offering visitors unforgettable memories of the breathtaking views.
If you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path, tranquil beauty and capturing great photos, Cabo Espichel promises a blend of serenity and wonder. It features dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean with its majestic Lighthouse, which has become a symbol of the cape. Once a place of intense religious devotion, the Santuário de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel is a historical pilgrimage site, which adds a spiritual atmosphere to the natural beauty, with stunning ocean views. This 17th-century church has splendid baroque paintings, gilt wood carvings and a fine frescoed ceiling for you to admire.
For those interested in geology and history, nearby you can marvel at some of the best-preserved dinosaur footprints in the rocks. There are two different sites of prints with both sets of tracks located just 500 meters apart but separated in time by 50 million years, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region’s pre-historic past.
An important aspect of Portuguese culture is enjoying a great meal with a view, and Setubal is well known for its fantastic cuisine, local flavors and dazzling vistas. Its reputation focuses on fresh seafood, particularly choco frito, a crispy and tasty fried cuttlefish dish that is a must-try for visitors. You can also pair this with a glass of Moscatel de Setúbal, the region’s sweet and aromatic wine, for an authentic taste of Setúbal’s gastronomy. From the nearby town of Azeitão, you can start with the creamy Azeitão cheese, and for dessert, the sweet tortas will leave you completely satisfied.
The region’s wine also shines, and at the Azeitão cellars, you can savor some of the finest vintages, with the chance to explore the art of winemaking. Waterfront restaurants provide the perfect setting to provide the perfect setting to savor these specialties while soaking in the sea breeze.
From the quaint and historic streets of Setúbal to the surprising natural beauty of Arrábida Nature park, this region proves to be the perfect retreat for adventurous enthusiasts as well as culture and relaxation lovers, offering diverse and unforgettable experiences. Taste the local flavors of the region with the activities we have to offer, and relax at the beautiful beaches of Troia and Comporta. Let us show you the marvels of Portugal’s beautiful coastline making this captivating region a highlight of your travel plans!