Visit the Arrábida National Park - Located next to the sea, between Setúbal and the fishing town of Sesimbra, Arrábida Natural Park has incomparable natural beauty, where the blue of the sea alternates with the white tones of the chalk cliffs and the depths of the green vegetation that covers the mountain range. One of the main attractions of the Park is the wealth of its indigenous vegetation. One of the rare examples of Mediterranean maquis in Portugal can be found here, and its preservation was one of the reasons which led the Arrábida zone to be considered as a genuine international scientific relic. In order to preserve these vegetation species, it is only possible to visit certain areas when accompanied by an official guide indicated by the Park’s services. There are also various accredited companies that organise radical activities, such as speleology, diving and mountain climbing. Visit the Oceanographic Museum, installed in the Fort of Nossa Senhora da Arrábida, next to Portinho beach. Almost directly in front, it's possible to see the Pedra da Anixa, a small island that constitutes a zoological reserve, due to its underwater vegetation. In addition to the Serra da Arrábida, the Park also includes other mountain ranges such as the Serra do Risco, which contains the highest peak along the Portuguese mainland coast -- it is a magnificent cliff measuring 380 m high, that overlooks the sea, from which it is possible to appreciate an unforgettable panoramic view over the Atlantic. The action of the sea against the mountains has originated a line of beaches characterised by fine sand and transparent waters, that we might otherwise believe could only be found in the Mediterranean, such as Figueirinha, Galapos and the Portinho da Arrábida. The zone was appreciated by Franciscan friars between the 16th and 19th centuries, who inhabited the convent that still exists in the zone and meditated in the isolated chapels dispersed throughout the mountains. Arrábida has excellent conditions for farming activities and pasture, and has thus originated high-quality products. Examples include the wines that can be discovered by following the Costa Azul wine route, which leads visitors to the friendly town of Azeitão where they can sample some delicious cheeses.

Visit wine caves - Built in the nineteenth century, the house was restored in 1923 by the Swiss architect, Ernesto Korrodi, and was the Soares Franco family residence until 1974. With its particularly beautiful façade and gardens, it has always been associated with the image of José Maria da Fonseca. The visit to the Museum House begins with a brief explanation of the company’s history, followed by a tour of the ancient wine cellars: Adega da Mata and Adega dos Teares Novos, where wines such as Periquita mature, and Adega dos Teares Velhos, where the oldest Setúbal Muscatels (Muscats or Moscateis) rest, some of which are true relics over 100 years old. At the end of the tour, the visitor can sample some of the wines produced by José Maria da Fonseca. When you visit our Wine Shop, you’ll be spoilt for choice for that special occasion and you can complement the wine with regional gourmet products. Ticket and wine taste included in the tour price.

Enjoy the scenic drive through Serra da Arrábida Natural Park and the beautiful green landscape. The Serra da Arrabida are the lush hills, idyllic beaches and jagged cliffs, which lie between Sesimbra and Setubal. This is a diverse and dramatic region; where rolling hills lined with vineyards, ascend into steep peaks and jagged ridges, and are abruptly cut off by the ocean, to form towering cliffs . Within these varied landscapes, tourists will discover a region rich with sights and activities. There are quiet hiking routes around the Serra do Risco, scenic mountain roads to be driven, and beautiful beaches to relax on. The beaches of the Serra da Arrabida are considered as some of the finest in Portugal, with sheltered bays of soft white sands, which are lapped by turquoise sea waters.

Visit Sesimbra is one of the finest resort towns of Portugal, and is adored by the Portuguese, being famed for its freshly cooked seafood and pristine coastline. Since the recent explosion of tourism, Sesimbra has been transformed into a bustling but welcoming resort town, which retains its character and heritage. Aside from the beautiful beaches and delicious food, there is a lot to do within the Sesimbra region. There are hiking/biking trails through the Serra da Arrabida, surfing on the Costa da Caparica, kayak or boat tours along the dramatic coastline and some of the best diving in Portugal. As for day trips, fascinating destinations include, the cliffs of Cabo Espichel, the busy port of Setubal or the paradise beaches of the Tróia Peninsula. Lunch included in the tour price. Sesimbra is a fantastic destination for tourists seeking an authentic Portuguese holiday experience, which combines wonderful beaches with a wide host of sights and activities. These tourist attractions also make Sesimbra an enjoyable day trip from Lisbon, which is only 30 minutes away. This article will provide an introduction to Sesimbra, which is one of the best holiday destinations of Portugal.