Exploring the Natural Beauty of Arrábida with My Spouse

Seizing the Sesimbra Day

Today was all about embracing the charm of Sesimbra. With only one day left in our Arrábida adventure, Greta and I were determined to soak up every last bit of Portuguese culture and scenery. We knew today would be a blend of natural beauty and local experiences, and Sesimbra certainly delivered.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Cervejaria Mafalda. This wasn't just any breakfast; it was a genuine taste of Portugal. We enjoyed strong coffee and *tostas mistas* (grilled ham and cheese sandwiches), the perfect fuel for a day of exploring. It's amazing how such a simple meal can be so satisfying, especially when you're surrounded by the buzz of locals starting their day. I made a mental note to try and recreate the *tosta mista* back in Heidelberg – a little taste of Portugal to brighten our mornings.

With our appetites satisfied, we headed to Parque Augusto Pólvora. This park was a delightful surprise. While it seemed like a quiet Sunday morning, I later learned that the park often hosts local events and activities. It's a great spot for families and anyone looking to enjoy a bit of green space. We took a leisurely stroll, enjoying the well-maintained gardens and the peaceful atmosphere. I could imagine spending an afternoon here, reading a book or simply watching the world go by. It's these unexpected little discoveries that make traveling so rewarding.


Explore the serene beauty of Parque Augusto Pólvora, a tranquil urban park in Sesimbra, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Next on our list was the Baloiço Panorâmico de Sesimbra. This panoramic swing had been highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The drive up was a bit winding, but the view from the top was absolutely worth it. As we approached, I could see the swing silhouetted against the sky, perched on the edge of a hill. Greta and I took turns soaring on the swing, the wind rushing through our hair as we took in the breathtaking vista of Sesimbra and the coastline. It felt like we were flying! The panoramic views truly captured the charm and natural splendor of Portugal. I managed to snap some amazing photos, which I know will be among my favorite memories from this trip. It was the kind of experience that makes you feel truly alive and connected to the world around you.


Discover the stunning Baloiço Panorâmico de Sesimbra, where breathtaking ocean views and thrilling swings create unforgettable moments in Portugal's scenic landscape.

After the exhilaration of the swing, we decided to explore the local shops. Tias Botique caught our eye with its display of stylish clothes and accessories. Greta, with her keen eye for fashion, was immediately drawn in. We spent a pleasant hour browsing the unique items, and Greta found a beautiful scarf to add to her collection. I even picked up a small, handcrafted leather wallet as a souvenir. Supporting local businesses is something we always try to do when we travel; it feels good to contribute to the local economy and find unique treasures that you wouldn't find anywhere else.


Explore Tias Boutique for a unique blend of modern fashion and local Portuguese culture, perfect for stylish travelers.

Lunchtime found us at Taberna Típica O Pescador II. This *taberna* came highly recommended, and we were eager to try some authentic Portuguese seafood. We shared a table with a friendly local couple, who gave us some recommendations from the menu. We ordered grilled sardines, octopus salad, and some delectable clams. Each dish was bursting with flavor, the seafood incredibly fresh and perfectly cooked. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation. It was exactly the kind of local experience we were hoping for. As we savored each bite, I felt a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of life – good food, good company, and a beautiful setting. We ended the meal with a strong espresso, the perfect punctuation to a delightful lunch.


Experience authentic Portuguese seafood at Taberna Típica O Pescador II in Setúbal – where tradition meets flavor.

As the afternoon waned, we made our way to Aukanaii Beach Bar for dinner. Situated right on the beach, this bar offered stunning views of the sunset over the Atlantic. We ordered some refreshing drinks and settled in to watch the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors. For dinner, we opted for some grilled seafood and a fresh salad. The food was delicious, but the real highlight was the atmosphere. The sound of the waves, the cool sea breeze, and the beautiful sunset created a magical ambiance. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Sesimbra. As we sat there, hand in hand, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. These are the moments that make travel so worthwhile – the moments that stay with you long after you've returned home.


Experience delightful cuisine and stunning ocean views at Aukanaii Beach Bar in beautiful Sesimbra.

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip to Arrábida Natural Park. We plan to visit the Monumento Natural da Pedreira do Avelino and Lagoa de Albufeira before heading back to Lisbon. We'll have breakfast at Restaurante Retiro do Campo and dinner at O Velho e o Mar in Sesimbra. We might even grab a drink at Rustik. It's hard to believe our adventure is almost over.

This trip has been an incredible experience, filled with stunning landscapes, delicious food, and unforgettable memories. I'm so grateful to have shared it all with Greta. As we prepare to leave Arrábida, I know that we will carry the spirit of this beautiful place with us, wherever we go.