Palmela & Sesimbra & Arrábida Full Day Tour

Palmela is one of the oldest wine producing regions in Portugal. In the town’s first royal charter from 1185, there is already a reference to the vines and wines of this region, one of the biggest in Portugal. The traditional red wine grape variety and Muscatel have won countless international awards mainly through the investment and renewal of the major wineries. It’s worth getting to know this area rich in producers and products, where the red wines are smooth and spicy and the whites flowery.

Palmela castle is one of the most impressive sights in this region. Occupied, conquered, lost and regained, it is a faithful testament to the battles waged during the 12th to the 14th century to establish Portugal’s territory. Erected at a uniquely strategic point – between the Tagus and Sado rivers – it was founded by the Romans, probably in 310 BC. The castle was successively added to: the primitive round towers by the Romans; the square towers by the Moors; the entrance tower and the cannon fortifications by Portuguese Kings. It also has a great view of the Arrábida hills and Sado estuary.

The town of Sesimbra is a fishing and bathing centre and the main tourist center, where several emblematic buildings are located, such as the Fortress of Santiago. The Castle is situated on the rural area, closely linked to agriculture. On the south coast, which stretches from the Sesimbra Bay to the Espichel Cape, are located some of the most beautiful beaches, especially Ribeiro do Cavalo, known worldwide. The western coast extends to Lagoa de Albufeira and includes the Meco beach.

With a view of the town’s incredible bay, it was built in the Romanesque style and it made use of the previous Moorish fortifications, from which it gained its name as the “Castle of the Moors”. The view from it of the amazing landscape of the region, and in particular the Tróia peninsula, Tejo and Sado river estuaries and the impressive Cape Espichel, is unique. In an excellent state of preservation this imposing monument to the history of Portugal is well worth a visit.

The Arrábida Park is one of the most beautiful places you can visit during your stay in Lisbon. Dotted by idyllic beaches and secret coves and just two steps from Sesimbra, a fishing town where the grill always smells of the freshest fish, the Arrábida Park represents a peaceful, natural and protected encounter between land and sea. When you explore the various roads, you’ll find forts, museums, convents, hermitages, retreats, palaces and unforgettable beaches.

Christ the King is one of Lisbon’s most iconic monuments. The statue stands high above the southern banks of the Tejo Estuary, and depicts Christ with arms raised, blessing the city. Since its consecration in 1959 has been an important Portuguese pilgrim destination. Lisbon’s Christ the King has many similarities to the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio, and the Brazilian statue was the original inspiration.

This town has become the third largest port in Portugal as it well sheltered from the Atlantic Ocean. Setubal is very attractive with many pedestrian streets, gardens and interesting shops. The gastronomy mainly made of fish captured in its waters is one of the highlights as well as the Market, known worldwide for its beautiful and colorful building.

The Meco Beach is the “Mecca” of the Portuguese naturism, and the most well known internationally. It is protected by an argil cliff, with water springs, a perfect place for green argil treatments. The beach is quite frequented by families, it is calm and the ocean waters, although dangerous due to the strong tides, due to the Espichel Cape proximity, are quite clean and natural.

Several aristocratic families made this delightful region of great beauty their summer residence. For that reason, you can find several country houses and mansions built in pure Renaissance style. A visit to Azeitão also gives you the opportunity to taste the excellent regional products, such as the cheeses, the famous tarts and the Moscatel Wine.

In this boat tour you’ll depart from Sesimbra to Espichel Cape and you’ll visit the caves and geological formations that cover this coast. You’ll see grottoes with zenithal lighting and crystal-clear water and very singular geological formations. Book with us.

The historic fisherman’s town of Sesimbra is a much-appreciated spot for divers. We can help you dive to visit the bottom of the sea in this. For newcomers, there is also the chance of having a diving baptism. Ask us.

Take a boat trip to observe the Sado Dolphins, the Corazon Roazes, one of the only three colonies estuaries throughout Europe. It’s an incredible experience for sea and nature lovers!