Exploring the Natural Beauty of Arrábida with My Spouse

Art, Views, and Italian Cuisine: A Day in Arrábida Natural Park

Today was a delightful blend of art, panoramic vistas, and culinary indulgence here in the stunning Arrábida Natural Park. Greta and I set out with a sense of anticipation, eager to explore more of what this beautiful region has to offer. After yesterday’s slight hiccup with the forgotten sunglasses, I made absolutely sure I had them on me today. It's amazing how something so small can make such a big difference to the enjoyment of the day!

Our first stop was the enchanting Parque da Bacalhôa. As a software developer, I don't often get to immerse myself in art and history, so this was a welcome change of pace. I’ve always appreciated the blend of nature and human creativity, and this park seemed to promise just that. We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Casa Mateus in Palmela.


Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Parque da Bacalhôa, where nature and relaxation meet in the heart of São Lourenço.

I had heard great things about their pastries, and they certainly lived up to the hype. Fuelled up, we were ready to explore!

We drove through the rolling hills towards the park, the landscape dotted with vineyards and charming countryside homes. The anticipation grew as we approached the entrance, eager to discover the artistic treasures hidden within. The Parque da Bacalhôa is more than just a garden; it's a journey through art, history, and culture. The sprawling grounds are home to an impressive collection of sculptures, contemporary art installations, and traditional Portuguese tiles. As we wandered through the meticulously manicured gardens, we were struck by the seamless integration of art and nature. Every corner turned revealed a new surprise, a new perspective, a new opportunity for a photograph. Greta, with her architect's eye, was particularly fascinated by the tile work, pointing out the intricate details and Moorish influences. The park also features a serene lake, adding to the overall sense of tranquility and beauty. I found myself drawn to the contemporary sculptures, their bold shapes and thought-provoking designs a stark contrast to the natural surroundings. It was a reminder of how art can challenge our perceptions and invite us to see the world in new ways.

The true beauty of art lies not just in its aesthetic appeal, but in its ability to connect us to history, culture, and each other.

One of the highlights was discovering the Buddha Eden, the largest oriental garden in Europe, located within the Bacalhôa estate. The contrast between the Portuguese tiles and the Eastern-inspired sculptures was striking, yet harmonious. As we strolled through the tranquil paths, surrounded by Buddhas, pagodas, and terracotta soldiers, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. It was a reminder of the interconnectedness of cultures and the universal search for meaning and enlightenment. We even saw a few families enjoying the gardens, kids pointing excitedly at the statues and running through the open spaces. It was heartwarming to see art and culture being appreciated by people of all ages.

After immersing ourselves in the artistic wonders of Parque da Bacalhôa, we set off for our next destination: Miradouro Cabeço do Melão. We hopped back in the car and drove towards Miradouro Cabeço do Melão, a viewpoint promising panoramic vistas of the Arrábida Natural Park and the surrounding landscapes.


Discover the stunning panoramic views at Miradouro Cabeço do Melão, a serene escape in Portugal’s breathtaking landscapes.

The drive itself was a treat, winding through narrow roads lined with lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers. As we ascended, the views became increasingly breathtaking, teasing us with glimpses of the stunning scenery that awaited us at the summit. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and wildflowers – a welcome change from the urban air of Heidelberg. We parked the car and walked the final stretch to the viewpoint, anticipation building with every step. And then, we arrived.

The view from Miradouro Cabeço do Melão was nothing short of spectacular. The Arrábida Natural Park stretched out before us in all its glory, a tapestry of rolling hills, verdant forests, and dramatic cliffs plunging into the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The sky was a brilliant blue, dotted with fluffy white clouds that seemed close enough to touch. Greta and I stood there in awe, taking in the sheer beauty of the landscape. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the power of nature to inspire and uplift us. I couldn't resist snapping a few photos, trying to capture the grandeur of the scene, but no image could truly do it justice. It was something that had to be experienced firsthand. I thought about how lucky we were to be able to witness such beauty, to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. It was a feeling I wanted to hold onto, to carry with me long after we left Arrábida.

The Miradouro itself was well-maintained, with informative signs pointing out the various landmarks and geographical features. I learned about the unique flora and fauna of the Arrábida Natural Park, the geological history of the region, and the importance of preserving this natural treasure for future generations. It was a reminder that we are all stewards of the environment, and that it is our responsibility to protect and cherish the beauty that surrounds us. There were a few other people at the viewpoint, but it wasn't crowded. Everyone seemed to be in a similar state of awe, quietly admiring the scenery and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. I noticed a couple sitting on a bench, holding hands and gazing out at the horizon. It was a touching scene, a reminder that nature has a way of bringing people together and fostering connection. As we prepared to leave, I took one last look at the view, etching it into my memory. It was a moment I knew I would treasure for years to come.

After a day filled with art and breathtaking views, our stomachs started to rumble, reminding us that it was time for lunch. We drove to Due Fratelli Ristorante in Palmela, an Italian restaurant recommended by a local.


Experience the essence of Italy at Due Fratelli Ristorante in Setúbal – where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Being away from Germany, we were both secretly craving a taste of home – or at least, as close to home as Italian cuisine could get. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through the air. We were greeted warmly by the staff and shown to a table with a view of the charming Palmela village. The menu was extensive, featuring a variety of classic Italian dishes, from pasta and pizza to seafood and meat dishes. Greta, ever the adventurous foodie, opted for the Penne Rustica with sausage, shrimp, sundried tomato, and broccoli rabe, while I decided to go with a classic Spaghetti Carbonara.

While we waited for our food, we sipped on a crisp Portuguese Vinho Verde, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant. The other diners seemed to be a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the delicious food and good company. When our dishes arrived, they were beautifully presented and smelled divine. Greta's Penne Rustica was a vibrant mix of colors and textures, the sausage and shrimp adding a savory richness to the dish. My Spaghetti Carbonara was creamy and decadent, the bacon and onions providing a satisfying salty flavor. We both savored every bite, feeling a sense of contentment wash over us. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day. As we finished our meal, we couldn't resist ordering a classic Italian dessert: Tiramisu. It was the perfect combination of coffee, chocolate, and mascarpone cheese, a sweet and indulgent treat that left us feeling completely satisfied.

Before heading back to our Airbnb, we made a quick stop at Ceramica Vicente & Filhos, Lda.


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

I wanted to pick up a small souvenir to remind us of our time in Arrábida. The shop was filled with beautiful hand-painted ceramics, from traditional Portuguese tiles to colorful pottery. I ended up buying a small ceramic bowl with a design inspired by the Arrábida Natural Park, a perfect memento of our trip. Greta found a lovely hand-painted tile with a floral motif, which she plans to use as a decorative piece in our Heidelberg apartment. It was a small but meaningful purchase, a way to bring a piece of Arrábida back home with us.

As we drove back to our Airbnb, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. Greta and I reflected on the day, feeling grateful for the experiences we had shared. From the artistic wonders of Parque da Bacalhôa to the breathtaking views from Miradouro Cabeço do Melão and the delicious Italian cuisine at Due Fratelli, it had been a day filled with beauty, inspiration, and culinary delights. It was a reminder of why we love to travel, to explore new places, and to immerse ourselves in different cultures. We were already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to explore Vedetanauta and the Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua. We’ll also be trying out Forte de Santiago de Sesimbra for breakfast, Feito ao Bife for lunch, and D'uportinho for dinner. I’m also looking forward to checking out Mar&ante, a local bar, for a relaxing evening drink. I’m sure tomorrow will bring even more adventures and unforgettable moments.

Today was a reminder that the best travel experiences are often the ones that combine art, nature, and good food. And perhaps, a little bit of planning to remember the sunglasses! I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share our adventures with you all. Until then, happy travels!