Exploring the Natural Beauty of Arrábida with David

A Fond Farewell to Arrábida

As our Arrábida adventure draws to a close, today was all about soaking in those last precious moments. It's funny how a place can feel like home in just a week, isn't it? Today, David and I set out to capture the essence of this beautiful park one last time, knowing we'd carry its spirit with us back to Berlin.

Our final day began with a hearty Portuguese breakfast at Feito ao Bife. I was excited to try this restaurant, as I had read it was a great place to try authentic Portuguese cuisine. We enjoyed the traditional *pão com chouriço* (bread with chorizo) and strong *café com leite*. It was the perfect fuel for our day of exploration. I remember when I first moved to Berlin, discovering the local bakeries was one of my favorite things, and this breakfast reminded me of those early days of exploring a new culture.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Feito ao Bife in Setúbal, where succulent meats meet warm hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.

Discovering Arrábida's Artistic Side

After breakfast, we decided to explore the Mural à fauna da Arrábida. I'd read about this urban art piece and was eager to see it in person. The mural is a vibrant tribute to the park's biodiversity, showcasing local animals in a colorful and engaging way. It was created by the artist Smile, also known as Ivo Santos, who aimed to raise awareness about the threats to the region's wildlife. As an environmental consultant, I always appreciate art that carries a message, and this mural certainly did that. The attention to detail was remarkable, and it was clear that the artist had a deep connection to the natural world. David, ever the supportive husband, snapped some great photos of me next to the mural, promising to print one for my office back in Berlin.


Explore the vibrant Mural à Fauna da Arrábida in Setúbal, a stunning tribute to the region's rich biodiversity and artistic expression.

Every journey, no matter how short, leaves an indelible mark on our souls.

Lunch Amidst the Greenery

For lunch, we chose Restaurante Retiro do Campo, drawn in by its promise of fresh, local ingredients and traditional Portuguese flavors. The restaurant is nestled in the scenic hills near Sesimbra, offering a tranquil escape. David opted for the grilled fish, while I couldn't resist trying the *carne de porco à alentejana* (pork with clams), a classic Portuguese dish that perfectly blends savory and seafood flavors. It was a delightful meal, made even better by the stunning views and the gentle breeze. We shared stories and laughs. It was the perfect way to savor the last moments of our trip.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Retiro do Campo in scenic Sesimbra, offering fresh ingredients and delightful flavors.

A Sunset to Remember

As the day wound down, we headed to a spot known for its lovely sunset views. We found a quiet spot overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and watched as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a breathtaking sight, and we both felt a sense of peace and gratitude. I thought about how lucky I am to share these experiences with David, and how these memories will stay with us long after we've returned to our everyday lives. Sunset is one of my favorite times to photograph, and I was able to capture some amazing shots of the sunset, which I plan to frame when we get back to Berlin.


Experience the unforgettable sunsets of Sesimbra, where the sky lights up with captivating colors over the Atlantic Ocean, creating magical memories for every visitor.

A Final Toast at Bar Ingles

Before dinner, we decided to stop by Bar Inglês for a drink. This cozy bar is known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the Arrábida coastline. We ordered a couple of local wines and toasted to our wonderful trip. David, ever the romantic, raised his glass and said, To more adventures together, my love!


Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bar Inglês in Sesimbra, where stunning ocean views and delicious drinks await you.

Dinner at Taberna do Largo

For our final dinner in Arrábida, we chose Taberna do Largo, a restaurant known for its authentic Portuguese cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We started with some local cheeses and olives, followed by the *arroz de marisco* (seafood rice), a rich and flavorful dish that perfectly captured the essence of Portuguese seafood. The staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. As we savored each bite, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip, from hiking the scenic trails to discovering hidden beaches.


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

Reflections on Arrábida

As we prepare to leave Arrábida, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. This natural park has captured my heart with its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and warm hospitality. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with open arms and a sense of adventure. We've hiked through lush forests, swam in crystal-clear waters, and explored charming coastal towns. We've discovered hidden gems and created memories that will last a lifetime.

Arrábida has also reminded me of the importance of sustainable travel. As an environmental consultant, I'm always looking for ways to minimize my impact on the planet. This park has shown me that it's possible to enjoy the beauty of nature while also protecting it for future generations. I'm inspired to continue my efforts to promote responsible travel and to encourage others to do the same.

Tomorrow, we will travel back to Berlin, filled with incredible memories from our stay in Arrábida Natural park. I will miss the beautiful views and the friendly people of Portugal. I know we will be back again soon. Until then, *adeus*, Arrábida!