Exploring the Natural Beauty of Arrábida with My Spouse

Echoes of the Jurassic Coast

Today was a day of stepping back in time and soaking in the stunning coastal views of Arrábida Natural Park. Greta and I set out with a sense of adventure, ready to explore ancient footprints and savor the local flavors of Sesimbra. It’s amazing how much history and natural beauty can be packed into a single day, especially when you have the right person to share it with.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Forte de Santiago de Sesimbra. The fortress itself is steeped in history, having stood guard over Sesimbra for centuries. But this morning, it was the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of traditional Portuguese pastries that drew us in. We sat on the terrace, the sea breeze gently caressing our faces, as we enjoyed our meal. The view of the beach and harbor was simply breathtaking, a perfect start to our day of exploration.


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

Fueled and ready, we drove towards Cabo Espichel, our destination being the Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua. The drive itself was an experience, the winding roads offering panoramic views of the coastline and the lush greenery of the Arrábida hills. As a software developer, I often find myself lost in lines of code, but moments like these remind me of the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Greta, with her architect's eye, was particularly captivated by the landscape, pointing out the unique geological formations and the way the light played on the cliffs.

Reaching the Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua, we were immediately struck by the dramatic coastal scenery. The wind was strong, carrying with it the scent of the sea and the cries of gulls circling overhead. It's quite a walk to get to the actual monument, and being that Greta forgot her sunglasses, she was squinting quite a bit. I offered her mine, but I think my sunglasses look better on me anyway. The monument is essentially a series of rock ledges on a cliff face, bearing the preserved footprints of dinosaurs that roamed this area millions of years ago.


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

It's a humbling experience to stand where these ancient creatures once walked, a tangible connection to a distant past.

The tracks, belonging to sauropods from the Late Jurassic period, are incredibly well-preserved, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these giant herbivores. As we followed the tracks, I couldn't help but imagine these colossal creatures lumbering across the landscape, their footsteps leaving an indelible mark on the earth. It's amazing to think that this very spot, now a windswept cliff overlooking the Atlantic, was once a thriving habitat for dinosaurs. Greta, ever the pragmatist, was more concerned about the safety of the cliff edge, but even she couldn't deny the awe-inspiring nature of the site.

From the ancient world of dinosaurs, we journeyed back to the present, heading to Sesimbra for a late lunch. We chose Feito ao Bife, a restaurant known for its succulent steaks and traditional Portuguese cuisine. As someone who enjoys brewing his own craft beer, I was eager to sample the local offerings, and Feito ao Bife did not disappoint. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, the staff friendly and attentive. We opted for a table outside, soaking in the vibrant energy of the town. Greta, being vegetarian, was pleased to find some options that suited her.


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

After a satisfying lunch, we decided to explore Sesimbra a bit more. The town is a charming mix of old and new, with narrow cobblestone streets winding past traditional houses and modern shops. We strolled along the waterfront, watching the fishing boats bobbing in the harbor and the locals going about their daily lives. Sesimbra has a rich maritime history, and it's easy to imagine the town as a bustling center of trade and fishing in centuries past.

As the afternoon drew to a close, we sought out a spot to relax and enjoy a drink. Mar&ante caught our eye with its inviting atmosphere and stunning sea views. We settled into a cozy corner, ordered a couple of drinks, and watched the sun begin its descent over the Atlantic. The sky was ablaze with color, the hues of orange, pink, and purple reflecting on the water. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mar&ante, a fast-food gem in Sesimbra offering delicious bites, creative cocktails, and a unique cosplay experience.

Before heading back to our Airbnb, we made a quick stop at a local bakery to pick up some *pastéis de nata* for a late-night treat. As we drove back, the memories of the day swirling in our minds, we couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and history of Arrábida Natural Park. It's days like these that make all the challenges of life worthwhile.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Parque Augusto Pólvora and Baloiço Panorâmico de Sesimbra, and maybe do a little shopping at Tias Botique. I'm looking forward to discovering more hidden gems in this beautiful region. It's amazing how much there is to see and do, and I'm determined to make the most of our time here. Plus, I'm sure Greta will be happy to finally have her sunglasses for the day!

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm reminded of the importance of taking the time to appreciate the world around us. Whether it's marveling at ancient dinosaur tracks or savoring the flavors of a local dish, there's always something new and exciting to discover. And when you have someone special to share those experiences with, it makes them all the more meaningful.