A mere 25 miles south from the center of Lisbon is a piece of paradise called Serra da Arrábida or Arrábida Natural Park. The park encompasses nearly 70 square miles and is home to some of the country's most spectacular beaches, complete with hidden caves. The equally stunning undisturbed landscape serves as a safe place for several rare and endangered animal species.

Arrábida’s gorgeous white sand beaches and calm turquoise waters look like something out of a movie set (in fact, the setting served as a backdrop in the James Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service). Beaches are bordered by pine-topped peaks. The limestone cliffs rising up from the ocean’s depths are awe-inspiring. Everywhere you look there’s a treat for the eye.

The park's illustrious beaches are a much-loved destination for residents from Lisbon and surrounding areas. The mountain range has a highest point of nearly 1,700 feet and the vegetation is a wonderful example of pure mediterranean flora.

But for all the natural beauty within the park, Arrábida is far from a passive experience. There’s plenty to do and see in Portugal’s exquisite wilderness site. Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to enjoy this natural treasure.

Take a Walk, Take a Hike

For those who enjoy a stroll through nature, or a more purposeful hike to take in amazing vistas, Arrábida offers endless options. In fact one of the best ways to see and get to know Arrábida Natural Park is by walking, hiking the marked trails. If you wish to take a bike tour there are rental shops located within the park.

The main attraction in this bountiful nature preserve is the Mediterranean vegetation. You see wild growing lavender, chamomile and thyme, olive trees growing throughout and some rare and highly prized examples of plant life specific to the Mediterranean climate.

The park spans from pretty, historical Sétubal to the beach town of Sesimbra along the coast of the Sétubal Peninsula. Each path takes you to a new and glorious view of the surrounding area and the fabulous, unspoiled coastline.

Tour a 16th Century Monastery

High above the beaches, concealed by lush vegetation and overlooking the sea is the Convent of Our Lady of Arrábida. This lovely and unassuming monastery was founded in 1547. The old monastery sits at the highest peak of the monastery’s 62 acres. The new monastery, the beautiful gardens and the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus are close by. The most interesting architectural and spiritual portion of the monastery are the five round cells perched on the cliffside, overlooking the sea. These chambers were used for meditation purposes.

Although no longer a religious enclave the monastery is open for scheduled tours. It passed through many hands over the centuries but the integrity of the original convent is fairly well-preserved.

Dive In, Visit a Fort and Maritime Museum

The beautiful beachside town of Praia do Portinho is considered one of the prettiest towns in all of Portugal. Many flock to these calm and clear waters to dive and check out the marine life.

Not too far from Portugal’s prettiest town you’ll find the Forte de Nossa Senhora da Arrábida. Originally erected in the 17th century, the fort was built to protect the Convent of Our Lady of Arrábida and the town of Portinho. In addition to the architecture you will most certainly want to tour the museum to learn more about the flora and fauna within the park’s borders.

The Beaches

Of course you’ll want to spend some time soaking up the local sun and lazing on the beach beside the calm and tranquil waters. And there are quite a few from which to choose. Here are some that are considered among the best beaches:

• Portion da Arrábida-As mentioned above this is one of the prettiest beach towns in Portugal but it’s also one of the favorite beaches. The stunning bay also features a small island. There are opportunities to snorkel or take an underwater look around.

• Galapos, and Galapinhos-With their clear, cool water, sandy beaches and bordered by the rocky cliffs above, Galapos and twin Galapinhos, are a must see. These beaches also boast a few beachy restaurants and bars too.

• Praia dos Coelhos-This beach is a little more private and secluded than the others. A wonderful picnic spot.

• Figueirinha-A very popular beach with the locals and easy to access the serene sea to cool off on a hot day.

Enjoy a Leisurely Meal, a Sweet Treat and Some Delicious Wines

There are so many small villages and towns throughout the park region and there you’ll find some remarkable restaurants, cafes and bakeries. Fresh seafood, delightful pastries and delicious local produce will certainly please your palate. Especially after a day spent by the sea.

Sétubal is recognized for its food scene and one of the town’s most well-known dishes is choco frito, or fried cuttlefish. There are many more gastronomic delights in Sétubal to satisfy any appetite.

The Sétubal Peninsula shares its border with the Tejo wine region, just across the Tagus Estuary. The warm maritime climate provides the ideal environment to nurture the grapes into some rather excellent wines. Here you’ll find some excellent reds, whites and fortified wines to enjoy.

Natural Beauty and So Much More

There you have it. There’s more fun and adventure in Arrábida Natural Park than you suspected! And best of all it’s just a short drive from Lisbon, which makes a visit to Arrábida Natural Park the perfect way to spend a day.

You can do it on your own as a pre trip to our 'Heart of Portugal ' tour or we can organize a guided tour for you.