Exploring the Natural Beauty of Arrábida with My Spouse

Whispers of the Past in Arrábida

Today marked the beginning of our adventure in Arrábida Natural Park, and what an incredible start it was! It’s amazing how a place can hold so much history and natural beauty in one stunning package. Greta and I set out with a sense of excitement, ready to immerse ourselves in the stories etched into the stones and landscapes of this coastal paradise.

Our first stop was the Convento Velho da Arrábida. Driving through the winding roads, the anticipation built as we glimpsed the convent nestled amidst the lush greenery. It felt like stepping back in time as we approached the ancient structure. The Convento Velho, or Old Convent, is perched high on the Arrábida hills, offering panoramic views that stretched out to the Atlantic. The serenity of the place was palpable; you could almost hear the whispers of the Franciscan friars who once sought solace within its walls.


Explore the historic Convento Velho da Arrábida, a peaceful retreat offering stunning views and rich cultural heritage in São Lourenço, Portugal.

Founded in the 16th century by Frei Martinho de Santa Maria, the convent's architecture reflects a blend of Gothic and Manueline styles. As we explored the grounds, we found ourselves surrounded by small chapels and cells carved into the rocks. These were once used by the friars for meditation and prayer, providing a glimpse into their austere way of life. The sense of history was overwhelming, making me reflect on the passage of time and the enduring power of faith. Greta, ever the architect, was fascinated by the structural ingenuity and the way the buildings integrated seamlessly with the natural landscape.

The stones of Arrábida whisper tales of devotion, resilience, and the timeless dance between nature and human spirit.

After soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of Convento Velho, we drove towards the coast to visit Lapa de Santa Margarida. This was perhaps the most unique and surprising destination of the day. Lapa de Santa Margarida is a small chapel nestled inside a sea cave, accessible only by descending a narrow path with over 200 steps down the mountainside. The descent was a bit challenging, especially with the camera gear, but the breathtaking views of the coastline kept us motivated. I was definitely feeling the need for those sunglasses I forgot to pack!


Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Lapa de Santa Margarida, a stunning natural attraction in Setúbal, Portugal, perfect for nature lovers.

As we reached the bottom, the sight of the chapel was truly remarkable. The chapel, dedicated to Saint Margaret, is adorned with an ornately painted altar and small gifts left by visitors over the centuries. The origins of the chapel are thought to date back to the 17th or 18th century, possibly succeeding earlier cults related to water or initiatory rites. The cave itself felt ancient and mysterious, with the sound of the waves echoing through the cavern. Greta was captivated by the way the natural light filtered through the entrance, illuminating the chapel in a soft, ethereal glow.

One of the local legends suggests that a deep tunnel once connected the cave to the Convento da Arrábida, a testament to the area's rich folklore. Whether that’s true or not, it certainly added to the mystique of the place. The climb back up those 200 steps was a workout, but the sense of accomplishment and the stunning views made it worth every step.

For breakfast, we stopped at O Zeca, a local favorite known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious pastries. It was the perfect way to start our day, fueling up for the adventures ahead. We enjoyed some strong coffee and traditional Portuguese sweets, soaking in the local vibe before heading out to explore the historical sites. The pastries were amazing and set us up well for the day of hiking.


Experience authentic Portuguese flavors at O Zeca in São Lourenço – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

Lunch was at Anicha-Bar, right on Praia do Portinho da Arrábida. The location was unbeatable, with stunning views of the ocean. We savored fresh seafood while enjoying the sea breeze, a perfect combination of flavors and scenery. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the relaxed atmosphere made it a memorable meal.


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

Dinner was at O Velho e o Mar in Sesimbra, a charming restaurant recommended for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and stunning ocean views. The restaurant lived up to its reputation, offering a delightful culinary experience. I opted for grilled fish, while Greta chose a seafood stew. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, and the service was excellent. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Arrábida, savoring the tastes of Portugal while reflecting on the day's adventures.


Discover exceptional seafood dining at O Velho e o Mar in Sesimbra, where culinary tradition meets stunning ocean views.

Before dinner, we popped into Safari Surf, a local surf shop. Although neither of us are surfers, it was fun to browse the equipment and soak in the surf culture. The staff were friendly and welcoming, sharing stories of the local surf scene. It was a great way to connect with the community and learn more about the coastal lifestyle.


Discover the best surf gear and beachwear at Safari Surf in Sesimbra, Portugal's ultimate destination for surf enthusiasts and beach lovers.

As we drove back to our cozy Airbnb, we talked about how incredible the day had been. Arrábida Natural Park is truly a gem, offering a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture. The weather in early May was ideal for exploring, with comfortable temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Castelo de Sesimbra, Miradouro do Norte, and Praia do Rebenta Bois. I’m particularly excited about visiting the castle and capturing some stunning photos from Miradouro do Norte. We might even check out the Sky Bar Caravela for a relaxing evening drink.

Arrábida has already captured our hearts, and I can’t wait to see what other wonders await us. Stay tuned for more updates from our Portuguese adventure!

Until tomorrow,
Oliver