Exploring the Natural Beauty of Arrábida with David

Echoes of the Past, Whispers of the River

Today was a beautiful blend of natural wonders and historical echoes in Arrábida Natural Park. David and I set out with the intention of fully immersing ourselves in the park’s diverse offerings, from a serene Boat Ride Sado on the Sado River to exploring the ancient dinosaur footprints at the Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua. It’s days like these that remind me why we prioritize eco-conscious travel, aiming to appreciate and preserve the beauty around us.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Setúbal with a mesmerizing boat ride along the Sado River, where nature and adventure await.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Casa Mateus, a local gem known for its traditional pastries and strong coffee. Fuelled up and ready, we made our way towards the Sado River for our boat tour. The plan was to explore the estuary and hopefully catch a glimpse of the resident bottlenose dolphins.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Casa Mateus in Sesimbra - where culinary tradition meets coastal charm.

A Morning on the Sado River

The gentle morning sun cast a golden glow on the water as we boarded our boat. The Sado River is stunning, with its tranquil waters reflecting the surrounding lush landscapes. As we set off, the guide shared fascinating insights about the river's ecosystem and the various bird species that call it home.

David, ever the attentive husband, made sure I had the best spot for viewing. We passed by picturesque beaches and verdant hills, each view more captivating than the last. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of the sea and the nearby pine forests. It was incredibly refreshing, a welcome change from the bustling city life of Berlin. I made sure to capture the scenery with my camera, eager to share the beauty with my readers.

As we ventured further into the estuary, we kept our eyes peeled for the elusive dolphins. The Sado Estuary is one of the few places in Europe where you can find a resident population of bottlenose dolphins, with around three dozen of these animals living here. Our guide explained that the dolphins are wild animals, and sightings aren't always guaranteed, but the success rate is quite high.

Unfortunately, despite our best efforts and the crew's expertise, the dolphins remained hidden from us today. While I was initially disappointed, I couldn’t help but appreciate the beauty of the river and its surrounding landscapes. It’s a reminder that nature operates on its own terms, and sometimes the real magic lies in the unexpected moments and the serene environment.

Sometimes, the most profound discoveries are not about finding what you seek, but about appreciating what surrounds you.

Instead, we enjoyed the sights of various bird species, including flamingos, which was a pleasant surprise. David, with his keen eye, spotted them first, their pink plumage standing out against the blue waters. It was a truly magical moment, watching these elegant birds in their natural habitat. The boat ride itself was incredibly relaxing, and I found myself completely unwinding, letting the gentle rocking of the boat soothe my soul.

Lunch with a View at O Farol

By lunchtime, we had worked up quite an appetite. We disembarked and headed to O Farol, a restaurant recommended by several locals for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the coastline. We managed to snag a table on the terrace, overlooking the ocean. The view was breathtaking, with the clear blue waters stretching out to the horizon.


Discover O Farol: A seaside restaurant in São Lourenço serving fresh local seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes with breathtaking views.

I decided to try the grilled sea bass, while David opted for the seafood cataplana, a traditional Portuguese stew. My sea bass was cooked to perfection, flaky and flavorful, with a hint of lemon and herbs. David’s cataplana was equally delicious, a rich and hearty stew filled with various types of seafood, simmered in a flavorful broth. We paired our meal with a crisp Vinho Verde, a light and refreshing Portuguese wine.

As we savored our meal, we talked about our morning adventure and the beauty of the Sado River. Even though we didn't see the dolphins, the experience was still incredibly rewarding. We appreciated the tranquility of the river, the stunning landscapes, and the opportunity to connect with nature. It’s moments like these that make our travels so meaningful.

Footprints from the Jurassic Era

After a satisfying lunch, we drove to the Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua, eager to explore the ancient dinosaur footprints. The monument is located on the western coast of Cabo Espichel, offering dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The area is known for its rugged cliffs and stunning coastal scenery.


Explore the breathtaking geological formations and rich biodiversity at the stunning Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua in Portugal's Arrábida Natural Park.

The hike to the footprints was relatively easy, with well-marked trails leading to the site. As we walked, we admired the unique flora and fauna of the region, including various species of wildflowers and coastal plants. The air was fresh and invigorating, filled with the scent of the sea and the earth.

Reaching the site, we were immediately struck by the sheer magnitude of the landscape. The cliffs towered above us, and the ocean stretched out as far as the eye could see. The dinosaur footprints were clearly visible on the rocks, preserved for millions of years. It was an awe-inspiring sight, a tangible connection to the ancient past.

These footprints, dating back approximately 145 million years to the Late Jurassic period, were left by sauropods, large herbivorous dinosaurs. The tracks reveal fascinating details about the paleobiology of these creatures, including their size, gait, and even their social behavior. Some of the tracks show evidence of limping, with alternating short and long steps, while others suggest that the dinosaurs moved in groups, possibly herds.

I felt a sense of wonder as I traced the outlines of the footprints with my fingers. It’s incredible to think that these massive creatures once roamed this very spot, leaving their mark on the landscape for millennia to come. David, with his engineering mind, was fascinated by the geological processes that allowed these footprints to be preserved so perfectly.

We spent a considerable amount of time exploring the site, taking photos and marveling at the ancient history beneath our feet. The Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua is not only a geological treasure but also a place of immense natural beauty. The combination of the rugged coastline, the ancient footprints, and the stunning ocean views makes it a truly unforgettable destination.

A Touch of Local Craftsmanship

Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to stop by Ceramica Vicente & Filhos, Lda, a local ceramics shop. I had read about their traditional pottery and was eager to see their creations firsthand. Supporting local artisans is important to us, as it helps preserve traditional crafts and promotes sustainable tourism.


Explore the rich tradition of Portuguese ceramics at Ceramica Vicente & Filhos, where craftsmanship meets cultural heritage.

The shop was filled with beautiful ceramics, from intricately painted tiles to rustic pottery. I was particularly drawn to the hand-painted bowls and plates, each one unique and full of character. We spoke with the owner, who shared the history of the shop and the techniques they use to create their ceramics. It was fascinating to learn about the traditional methods passed down through generations.

We ended up purchasing a few small items, including a hand-painted bowl and a set of ceramic coasters. These will serve as lovely reminders of our time in Arrábida Natural Park and will also make wonderful gifts for our friends and family back in Berlin. I always believe in bringing back a piece of the local culture with us, something that tells a story and supports the local economy.

Dinner at Forte de Santiago de Sesimbra

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Forte de Santiago de Sesimbra for dinner. This historic fortress has been converted into a restaurant, offering a unique dining experience with panoramic views of the Sesimbra coastline. The setting was magical, with the fortress walls illuminated against the night sky and the sound of the waves crashing below.


Discover history at Forte de Santiago de Sesimbra – a stunning fortress with breathtaking views and delicious Portuguese cuisine.

We enjoyed a delicious meal of fresh seafood, savoring the flavors of the ocean and the local cuisine. The ambiance was perfect, a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It was a fitting end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.

As we reflect on our day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the wonders of Arrábida Natural Park. From the serene boat ride on the Sado River to the ancient dinosaur footprints at Pedra da Mua, every moment was a reminder of the beauty and fragility of our planet. Tomorrow, on our final day, we plan to visit the Mural à fauna da Arrábida and enjoy a lovely sunset, cherishing every last moment of this eco-friendly adventure.

Our commitment to sustainable travel is not just a trend but a way of life, and I hope that our experiences inspire others to explore the world responsibly, leaving only footprints behind.