Exploring the Natural Beauty of Arrábida with My Spouse

A Step Back in Time & A Peaceful Goodbye

As our Arrábida adventure draws to a close, Greta and I wanted to soak up every last bit of this beautiful region. Today was all about contrasts – stepping back millions of years to walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs, followed by an afternoon of serene relaxation by a tranquil lagoon. It’s amazing how much history and natural beauty can be packed into a single day!

Our final day in Arrábida Natural Park began, as most of our mornings here have, with the promise of exploration and discovery. We started our day with breakfast at Restaurante Retiro do Campo. It was a delightful spot , and we enjoyed a hearty meal of local pastries and strong coffee, fueling up for our first adventure. The friendly owners and staff made us feel right at home, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off to explore the Monumento Natural da Pedreira do Avelino. I've always been fascinated by paleontology, and the idea of seeing actual dinosaur footprints was incredibly exciting. The drive itself was scenic, winding through the rolling hills and vineyards that characterize this part of Portugal. As we approached the site, the landscape became more rugged, hinting at the ancient history hidden beneath our feet.

Arriving at the Monumento Natural da Pedreira do Avelino, we were immediately struck by the unassuming nature of the site. It wasn't a grand museum or elaborate exhibit, but rather a preserved slice of prehistoric life. The footprints, dating back to the Late Jurassic period, were embedded in a layer of compact limestone. It was surreal to stand there, tracing the outlines of these ancient tracks, imagining the massive creatures that once roamed this very land.


Explore the stunning geological formations and rich fossil history at Monumento Natural da Pedreira do Avelino, a top destination for nature lovers in Portugal.

Standing where dinosaurs once walked is a humbling reminder of our planet's long and complex history.

The site itself is a relatively small area, about 150 square meters, but the significance of what it holds is immense. The footprints are believed to belong to sauropods, large, herbivorous dinosaurs with long necks and tails. It's incredible to think that these gentle giants left their mark here millions of years ago, during a time when this area was a lush, coastal lagoon. We spent a good hour exploring the site, taking photos, and marveling at the preservation of these ancient imprints. The interpretive center provided helpful information about the dinosaurs and the geological history of the area.

After our prehistoric adventure, Greta and I decided to head towards Lagoa de Albufeira for a change of pace. The lagoon promised a tranquil escape, a place to relax and reflect on our Arrábida experiences. The drive from the dinosaur site to the lagoon was relatively short, and soon we were greeted by the sight of calm, shimmering waters.

Lagoa de Albufeira is a unique coastal lagoon, separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow strip of sand. This creates a sheltered environment, perfect for a variety of water sports and activities. As we arrived, we saw kite surfers gliding across the water, taking advantage of the gentle breeze. Families were picnicking on the shore, children were playing in the shallows, and a general atmosphere of relaxation permeated the air. We decided to have lunch at Cervejaria Mafalda. The restaurant offered stunning views of the sea, and the food was delicious. Greta enjoyed a fresh seafood salad, while I opted for the grilled monkfish. The service was excellent, and we were made to feel very welcome.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lagoa de Albufeira, where serene waters meet stunning landscapes on Portugal's southern coast.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll along the lagoon's edge. The water was crystal clear, and we could see small fish darting among the reeds. The surrounding landscape was a mix of pine forests and sandy dunes, creating a picturesque backdrop. We found a quiet spot to sit and simply enjoy the scenery. It was the perfect way to unwind and recharge after a busy morning of exploring. I took the opportunity to capture some photos of the lagoon and the surrounding landscape. Photography has always been a passion of mine, and the serene beauty of Lagoa de Albufeira provided ample inspiration.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to try some of the activities offered at the lagoon. We rented a kayak and paddled around the calm waters, exploring the hidden coves and inlets. It was a fun and active way to experience the lagoon from a different perspective. We even spotted a few different species of birds, including herons and egrets, wading in the shallows.

Before heading back to our Airbnb, we stopped at Rustik for a drink. It had a unique and cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed some local wine and tapas, chatting with the friendly staff and soaking up the laid-back vibe of the place. It was the perfect way to end our final day in Arrábida. For dinner, we chose O Velho e o Mar in Sesimbra. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the views of the bay were stunning. It was a memorable meal, a fitting end to our culinary adventures in Portugal.


Discover family-friendly dining at Cervejaria Mafalda in São Lourenço—where delicious meals meet vibrant sports entertainment!

Looking back on our week in Arrábida, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and contentment. This natural park has exceeded all of our expectations. From the dramatic coastlines to the lush forests, from the ancient history to the vibrant culture, Arrábida has something to offer everyone. I'm so glad that Greta and I decided to explore this hidden gem of Portugal. It's a place that we'll cherish forever, and I hope to return someday soon.

Tomorrow, we head back to Heidelberg, filled with memories of our incredible journey. Arrábida, you've been amazing!