Exploring the Natural Beauty of Arrábida with My Spouse

A Coastal Daydream in Sesimbra

Today, Greta and I set out to explore the coastal wonders of Sesimbra, a charming town nestled within the Arrábida Natural Park. Leaving our cozy Airbnb, we were eager to immerse ourselves in the local history, soak in the panoramic views, and discover the hidden gems along the shoreline. With our hiking boots laced up and camera in hand, we knew it was going to be a day to remember.


Our first stop was breakfast at Restaurante Cantinho da Regina. It’s a small, unassuming place, but the reviews promised a delightful start to the day. And they weren't wrong! The cafe was cozy, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. Greta opted for a vegan mushroom toast, while I went for a traditional Portuguese pastry. As we savored our breakfast, we chatted with the friendly owner, Regina, who gave us some insider tips on the best spots to explore in Sesimbra. It felt like having breakfast at a friend's home, a truly heartwarming experience.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Restaurante Cantinho da Regina – a must-visit culinary destination in Sesimbra.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we made our way to Castelo de Sesimbra. The castle dominates the skyline, perched high on a hill overlooking the town and the Atlantic Ocean. The drive up was scenic, with glimpses of the coastline peeking through the trees. As we parked the car and approached the castle walls, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the history that surrounded us. The castle dates back to the Moorish era, with significant additions made during the reigns of King Sancho I and King Dinis.


Explore the historic Castelo de Sesimbra, where breathtaking views and rich heritage combine in a stunning coastal setting.

Walking through the ancient stone gates, we stepped back in time. The views from the castle ramparts were simply breathtaking. To the south, we could see the vast expanse of the Atlantic, with fishing boats bobbing gently on the waves. To the north, the town of Sesimbra spread out before us, its whitewashed buildings gleaming in the morning sun. Greta, ever the architect, was particularly fascinated by the castle's architecture, pointing out the intricate details of the stonework and the strategic design of the fortifications. I, of course, was busy snapping photos, trying to capture the panoramic beauty of the scene. We spent a good hour exploring every nook and cranny of the castle, imagining what life must have been like for the soldiers and royalty who once called this place home. I can't help but feel a sense of connection to the past when visiting places like this. It reminds me that history is not just something we read about in books, but a living, breathing entity that surrounds us.


Leaving the castle, we set our sights on Miradouro do Norte, a viewpoint known for its stunning vistas of the Arrábida coastline. The drive was short, but the anticipation grew with every turn. As we arrived, we were greeted by an unobstructed view of the rugged coastline, with dramatic cliffs plunging into the turquoise waters below. The air was fresh and salty, carrying the scent of the sea. The viewpoint was relatively quiet, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. I set up my camera and tripod, eager to capture the perfect shot of the landscape. Greta, meanwhile, simply sat on a nearby bench, gazing out at the horizon with a look of peaceful contentment. We spent a long time there, just soaking in the view and enjoying each other's company.


Experience stunning panoramic views at Miradouro do Norte, a scenic gem in São Simão, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After our fill of scenic vistas, it was time for lunch. We drove to Charroco Restaurante in Setúbal, a place recommended by Regina for its fresh seafood. The restaurant was bustling with locals, always a good sign. We were lucky to snag a table with a view of the harbor. Greta, being a big fan of seafood, was in her element. She ordered grilled fish, while I opted for the seafood soup. The food was delicious, and the service was friendly and efficient. As we ate, we watched the fishermen unloading their catch of the day, a reminder of the close connection between the town and the sea. The flavors were rich and authentic, a true taste of Portugal. It was the perfect midday treat.


Discover fresh seafood delights at Charroco Restaurante in Setúbal - where every dish tells a story of Portugal's rich maritime heritage.

With renewed energy, we decided to venture off the beaten path and discover Praia do Rebenta Bois, a secluded beach known for its tranquility and natural beauty. The drive was a bit challenging, with narrow, winding roads leading down to the coast. But the effort was well worth it. As we arrived, we were greeted by a small, secluded cove, with crystal-clear waters lapping gently against the shore. The beach was almost deserted, save for a few sunbathers seeking refuge from the crowds. We parked the car and made our way down to the sand, eager to take a dip in the refreshing water. The beach is small, with the distance between the side scarps being only about 25 meters.


Explore the serene beauty of Praia do Rebenta Bois, a hidden beach paradise in Sesimbra, Portugal, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

The water was cool and invigorating, perfect for a midday swim. We splashed around for a while, enjoying the solitude and the stunning natural surroundings. Greta, always up for an adventure, even tried her hand at snorkeling, exploring the rocky reefs that lined the shore. I simply floated on my back, gazing up at the clear blue sky, feeling a sense of peace and contentment wash over me. It was a moment of pure bliss, a reminder of why we love to travel and explore new places. The beach was spotless, and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore was incredibly soothing. We spent a few hours there, swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing in each other's company. It felt like we had discovered our own little slice of paradise.


As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we reluctantly packed up our things and made our way back to Sesimbra. But before heading back to our Airbnb, we decided to treat ourselves to a sunset cocktail at Sky Bar Caravela. The bar was perched high on a cliff overlooking the town, offering panoramic views of the coastline. We ordered two glasses of local wine and settled in to watch the sunset. The sky was ablaze with color, as hues of orange, pink, and purple painted the horizon. It was a magical moment, a perfect ending to a perfect day. We raised our glasses and toasted to our adventure, grateful for the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Arrábida Natural Park.


Experience the tranquility of Sky Bar Caravela, where Mediterranean flavors and stunning ocean views create an unforgettable atmosphere for relaxation and enjoyment.

As we sipped our wine, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the historical grandeur of Castelo de Sesimbra to the breathtaking vistas of Miradouro do Norte and the secluded tranquility of Praia do Rebenta Bois, we had experienced the best that Sesimbra had to offer. And to top it off, the delicious food and friendly locals had made us feel right at home. It was a day that we would cherish for years to come.


Tomorrow, we're planning to explore more of the park's trails, including Alto do Jaspe and Lovely Sunset, hoping for more stunning views and unforgettable moments. We'll be sure to fuel up with breakfast at Ondagalapos, lunch at Restaurante Retiro do Campo, and dinner at Portofino. And who knows, maybe we'll even find some time for a bit of shopping at MO Sesimbra. Until then, good night from Sesimbra!


As I sit here writing this, I'm reminded of something my grandfather used to say: The best memories are made when you step outside your comfort zone. And today, we certainly did that. We explored new places, tried new things, and created memories that will last a lifetime. And that, my friends, is what travel is all about.