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Setúbal district |
To see and do
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Useful information
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Other opinions
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No, it is not a touristy destination, but a residential area for many people working between Lisbon and Setúbal, but it has a special point , the Christ Redeemer, and the sights over Lisbon are fabulous.
Christ Redeemer Copied from the original Brazilian version in the middle of the 20th century, the statue stands discreetly and harmoniously in the horizon, when seen from Lisbon, and it is a fabulous balcony for a general look over Lisbon. |
Crossing the river is today, a quick ride (if you are not in rush hours...), and there's a train crossing.
Website: http://www.cristo-rei.com/default-uk.htm
Website: http://www.cristo-rei.com/default-uk.htm
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Paradise close to Lisbon
Less than an hour by car south of Lisbon, the Arrábida holds a natural park, that embraces some wonderful beaches. Portinho da Arrábida (with some access restrictions), Galapos and Figueirinha (Fernanda's favorite) are an alternative, very hard to choose. So, go there, enjoy the magnificent sights, and... decide for yourself. In your way there's no need to go up the mountain, but if you don't know it, make a detour and enjoy the sights. |
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Scenic road From Setúbal, there are two roads following the mountain. If you want to "use" Arrábida, follow the one in the base, that takes you to the several beaches, always close to the sea. In summer, be prepared to a jammed traffic. If you want to "see" Arrábida, use the road atop the mountain. With less traffic, it has most of the astonishing views. Of course, you may make a tour combining both... why not? |
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Portinho da Arrábida One of the best details of Arrábida is the small beach of Portinho. After the revolution irregular construction took place of the sand, spoiling the views and turning the visit a nightmare to enter, park or exit. Demolition was ordered, and the beach turned back to its natural beauty, though, in the best summer days, the traffic may continue very congested. |
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Arrábida Convent
Built in the 16th century, this convent for long used by the monks, was abandoned and ruined. In the 19th century it was sold to private owners, that 60 years ago decided to recuperate it. In 1990 it was sold to Fundação Oriente, that now manages the place. The visits are allowed from Wednesday to Sunday, in groups and by previous reserve. I never entered, and read that the contents hardly justifies the 5€ (3€ for groups >10). Website: http://www.foriente.pt/137/history.htm |
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Troia
Just across the river from Setubal, a tiny stripe of sand, holds a long and desert beach, only here and there punctuated by accesses and public services. The northern tip of the peninsula is under reconstruction, with some luxurious facilities promised to the place, but, unless they stop the ferry, it will continue to be a very popular destination. I had some very good swims there, but I must admit that I never saw so many jellyfish as I did one day. So, enjoy but be careful. |
Caparica
Melides
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A small lagoon by the sea, about 5 Km from town, is a good spot for a day in the wild. The structures are very basic, and, in summer, there is always people spreading in the wide stripe of sand. Camping is the main lodging resource in Melides. |
Sesimbra
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Well protected against the north winds, Sesimbra is an excellent place to spend some days. Pleasant to swim, its good location makes it a good starting point to search for the charms of the region. Arrábida, Tróia and cape Espichel are not to be missed. When passing in Azeitão don't forget the cheese. And the wine. And... |
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Surviving Heavy Industry
Surrounded by most of our chemical heavy industry, and pointed for decades as the destination of the biggest industrial investments, Sines... survives. Its beach, by the castle walls keep its beauty, and nearby, some other beaches are still free from pollution. Till when? |
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Castle Built in the 15th century this castle has an exceptional location, overlooking the beach. The municipality adapted it for touristy purposes, and, nowadays, it holds a museum in one tower, and it is used in cultural events. |
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Porto Covo
The most popular beach around Sines is Porto Covo. Some years ago, it was a wild area, with a secluded beach turned into a privilege to the few who could access it. Successive investments transformed it in a massive holiday place, and... a beach like many other. OK! If you want to swim in a not so cold water as up north... |