Exploring the Natural Beauty of Arrábida with My Spouse

A Day of Sesimbra's Seaside Splendor

Today was all about embracing the coastal beauty and artistic expressions of Sesimbra. After three incredible days exploring the trails and vistas of Arrábida Natural Park, Greta and I decided to dedicate today to the charming seaside town of Sesimbra. It was a day filled with sun-kissed beaches, captivating art, and, of course, delightful Portuguese cuisine.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at O Farol, a local spot known for its traditional Portuguese fare. I opted for the classic *tosta mista* (ham and cheese toastie) and a strong *galão* (a Portuguese latte), while Greta enjoyed some fresh pastries and fruit. The atmosphere was cozy, and it was a great start to our seaside adventure. O Farol seems to be a popular spot, offering both Portuguese and international cuisine throughout the day. It’s conveniently located in Rocha Brava Village Resort, providing beautiful views. I made a mental note to come back for dinner sometime!


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

Fueled up, we headed straight for Sesimbra Beach. The beach was already bustling with activity, even early in the morning. Families were setting up for a day by the sea, kids were building sandcastles, and the vibrant energy was infectious. We strolled along the shore, enjoying the feel of the soft sand between our toes and the refreshing sea breeze. Sesimbra Beach is known for being family-friendly, with its extensive sandy area and calm waters. I could easily see why it's nicknamed the Children's Beach.


Experience the serene beauty of Sesimbra Beach, a coastal gem in Portugal, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and local culture.

We decided to take a leisurely walk along the Sesimbra Marginal, the promenade that runs alongside the beach. It’s perfect for a relaxed stroll, offering stunning views of the coastline and the town itself. Along the way, we passed by several shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, as well as charming cafes and restaurants. The vibrant atmosphere of the Marginal truly captures the essence of Sesimbra.

As we continued our walk, we noticed several options for water activities. From scuba diving and snorkeling to boat tours and kayaking, there was no shortage of ways to experience the ocean. I was tempted to try my hand at windsurfing, but Greta reminded me of my less-than-graceful attempt in the Baltic Sea a few years back. Maybe next time!

Next on our list was the Mural à fauna da Arrábida, a stunning piece of street art located in Vila Nogueira de Azeitão. Created by the talented artist Smile, the mural depicts various animals from the Arrábida Natural Park, raising awareness about the importance of preserving local biodiversity. The mural is huge, almost 80 meters in length, and the detail is incredible.


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

Art has the power to transform spaces and inspire conversations, reminding us of the beauty and fragility of the natural world.

I was particularly impressed by the lifelike depictions of the red fox, the European rabbit, and various bird species native to the area. The artist’s ability to capture the essence of these creatures was truly remarkable. It’s inspiring to see art being used to promote environmental awareness and celebrate the natural heritage of Arrábida.

After admiring the mural, our stomachs started to rumble, so we made our way back to Sesimbra for lunch at O Zagaia. This restaurant is highly recommended for its modern take on Portuguese cuisine and its focus on fresh seafood. We started with the *amêijoas à Bulhão Pato* (clams in garlic and cilantro sauce), a classic Portuguese dish that never disappoints. For our main courses, I opted for the grilled octopus with sweet potato puree, while Greta chose the cuttlefish croquettes with black garlic mayonnaise. Both dishes were absolutely divine, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service at O Zagaia added to the overall dining experience.


Discover O Zagaia in Sesimbra for an authentic taste of Portuguese cuisine amidst charming coastal views.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to explore more of Sesimbra's cultural side. We visited the Sesimbra Castle, an imposing fortress that overlooks the town and the sea. The castle has a rich history, dating back over 850 years, and it’s the last castle by the sea that maintains its medieval characteristics.

We walked along the castle walls, taking in the panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding landscape. Inside the castle, we explored the small museum, which showcased the history of the fortress and the town. It was fascinating to learn about Sesimbra's role in Portugal's maritime past and its importance as a fishing hub.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to find a spot to relax and enjoy a drink. We stumbled upon MEIA ESCOTA BAR, a cozy little bar tucked away in the center of Sesimbra. This place had a friendly, local vibe. I ordered a local beer, while Greta enjoyed a glass of Portuguese wine. We sat outside, soaking in the atmosphere and watching the world go by. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.


Discover Meia Escota Bar in Sesimbra, a lively spot for drinks, music, and stunning views in the heart of Portugal's coastal paradise.

For dinner, we chose Taberna do Largo, known for its authentic Portuguese cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We shared a variety of *petiscos* (Portuguese tapas), including grilled chorizo, *pica-pau* (beef bites), and *queijo de Azeitão* (Azeitão cheese). Each dish was bursting with flavor, and we savored every bite. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home.


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

As we savored our meal, we talked about our plans for tomorrow. We're heading to Parque da Bacalhôa and Miradouro Cabeço do Melão, hoping for more stunning views and photo opportunities. I'm also keen to visit Ceramica Vicente & Filhos, Lda, a local ceramics shop, to pick up a few souvenirs for our friends back in Heidelberg. Greta is excited about trying Due Fratelli Ristorante - Culinária Italiana Artesanal for lunch, as she's been craving some good Italian food. And for dinner, we’re trying Taberna Porto à Noite, which I hear has amazing seafood.

Before heading back to our Airbnb, we took one last stroll along Sesimbra Beach, enjoying the cool night air and the sound of the waves. The beach was much quieter now, with only a few people lingering along the shore. It was a peaceful end to a day filled with coastal charms and artistic wonders.

Today was a reminder of why we love traveling – the opportunity to discover hidden gems, immerse ourselves in local culture, and create lasting memories with each other. Sesimbra, with its beautiful beaches, vibrant art, and delicious cuisine, has definitely captured our hearts.