Exploring the Natural Beauty of Arrábida with David

Arrábida's Hidden Gems

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the raw beauty of Arrábida Natural Park, venturing off the beaten path to discover viewpoints that stole our breath and serene spots that calmed our souls. It's days like these that remind me why David and I traded the familiar comforts of Indiana for a life of exploration and sustainable living in Berlin. The park's rugged charm and commitment to preservation resonate deeply with our values.



Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Taberna do Largo. It was a cozy little spot, buzzing with locals and the aroma of freshly baked bread. David, ever the early bird, had scoped it out the previous evening. We shared some *pastéis de nata* and strong coffee, fueling up for our day of exploration. The staff were incredibly friendly, offering tips on the best hiking routes and hidden gems within the park. It's these little interactions that truly enrich our travel experiences, making us feel like temporary locals rather than just tourists.


Discover the rich flavors of Portugal at Taberna do Largo in Setúbal – where tradition meets taste.


First on our itinerary was Alto do Jaspe / Brecha da Arrábida. The drive there was an adventure in itself, winding through narrow, cobblestone streets lined with charming houses adorned with vibrant bougainvillea. As we ascended, the views became increasingly panoramic, revealing the dramatic coastline and the turquoise waters below. Arriving at Alto do Jaspe, we were immediately struck by the sheer scale of the landscape. The cliffs plunged into the ocean, creating a breathtaking vista that stretched as far as the eye could see.


Experience breathtaking views and lush landscapes at Alto do Jaspe and Brecha da Arrábida, a must-visit tourist attraction in São Lourenço, Portugal.


We spent a good hour simply soaking in the scenery, taking photos, and marveling at the power of nature. David, with his keen eye for detail, was particularly fascinated by the geological formations, pointing out the layers of rock and the evidence of ancient marine life. I, on the other hand, was captivated by the vibrant colors of the wildflowers that clung to the cliffs, adding a touch of delicate beauty to the rugged landscape. It was the perfect spot to pause and reflect on our journey so far, and to appreciate the incredible beauty of our planet. I am so glad we remembered to bring our camera!

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of nature, where the earth whispers its secrets to those who listen.

After our vista fix, we ventured towards the Interpretive Area Little Lagoon. This was a completely different experience, a serene oasis hidden away from the dramatic coastline. The Little Lagoon is a haven for birdwatchers, and we were thrilled to spot several species of waterfowl, including the purple swamphen and Eurasian coot. The area is well-maintained, with fenced areas, observation points and well-marked trails. The air was filled with the sounds of birdsong and the gentle rustling of reeds, creating a peaceful atmosphere that was a welcome contrast to the ruggedness of Alto do Jaspe. I found myself wishing I hadn’t forgotten our portable power bank, as my phone was starting to run low from taking so many pictures!


Experience the beauty of nature at Little Lagoon, a birdwatcher's haven in Portugal, where tranquility meets rich biodiversity.


We spent a leisurely afternoon exploring the lagoon, learning about the local ecosystem from the informative signs dotted along the trails. It was fascinating to discover the diverse range of plant and animal life that thrives in this small area, and to understand the importance of preserving such delicate habitats. As an environmental consultant, these kinds of places make me feel so inspired and remind me why I do what I do.




By lunchtime, our stomachs were rumbling, so we headed to Anicha-Bar, a seaside restaurant on Praia do Portinho da Arrabábida. The location was idyllic, right on the beach with stunning views of the ocean. We indulged in fresh seafood, grilled to perfection, and washed it down with a crisp Vinho Verde. David, of course, couldn't resist trying the local specialty, *choco frito* (fried cuttlefish), which he declared to be absolutely delicious. I opted for a simple grilled fish, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The relaxed atmosphere and the sound of the waves lapping against the shore made for a truly memorable dining experience. I made a mental note to try caving next time, as I learned that the meeting point is behind the restaurant!


Experience seaside dining at Anicha-Bar on Praia do Portinho da Arrabábida – where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.


After lunch, we decided to do a little shopping at Segredos Da Terra Cotovia. This charming local shop is known for its traditional pastries, breads, and regional products. We stocked up on some local honey, Azeitão cheese, and a few *tortas de Azeitão* to take back to our accommodation. The shop was a treasure trove of local delights, and we enjoyed chatting with the friendly staff about the region's culinary traditions. I bought some *broa de passas e nozes* as well, as I read that it was a must try!


Discover the sweet flavors of Portugal at Segredos Da Terra Cotovia, a charming pastry shop in Cotovia offering delightful and fresh pastries.


As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Cervejaria Mafalda for dinner. This family-friendly restaurant in São Lourenço had been recommended to us by several locals, and we were eager to try it out. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, with families enjoying meals together and the sound of laughter filling the air. We ordered some traditional Portuguese dishes, including *arroz de marisco* (seafood rice) and *frango assado* (roasted chicken), which were both incredibly flavorful and satisfying. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring, surrounded by the warmth and hospitality of the local community. I am glad to know they also show sports events, so David will be happy to come back.


Discover family-friendly dining at Cervejaria Mafalda in São Lourenço—where delicious meals meet vibrant sports entertainment!


Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're excited to explore more of Arrábida's viewpoints, including the Santo Domingo viewpoint and Miradouro da Penha de França. We're also planning to enjoy breakfast at Due Fratelli Ristorante, have lunch at Aukanaii Beach Bar, and dinner at Taberna Típica O Pescador II. And if we have time, we might even check out Marginal Bar Sesimbra for a nightcap. I can’t wait to see what other hidden gems we uncover.




Arrábida continues to surprise us with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It's a place where nature and tradition intertwine, creating an experience that is both inspiring and unforgettable. As we continue our journey, we're committed to exploring responsibly and supporting local businesses, ensuring that this beautiful region remains preserved for future generations. We are also thinking about finding an eco-friendly hotel, so that we can contribute to the sustainability of the region even more.