Get Away for a Romantic Beach Resort Holiday

Heading south for Setubal from Lisbon via the 25^th of April Bridge, one of the most spectacular sites you will see as you cross the river is the Cristo Rei, a statue of Jesus Christ modeled on and a replica of the famous statue in Brazil. Stop and take the elevator ride to the top of the statue for a spectacular sight.

Marvel Over Medieval Castles

Setubal, Portugal’s third largest city, is only about 25 miles from Lisbon via the bridge. The Pousada de Seo Filipe is built there on the top of an old fortress’s ramparts. The little chapel in the castle displays beautiful Azulejos tile scenes on its walls, and the terrace cafй overlooks the beautiful Sado River with Troia in the background. The Spanish built this castle at the end of the 16^th century to defend the kingdom of Portugal. Guests now stay in the former guards’ quarters and marvel at the picture post card view -- whitewashed buildings of Setubal with uniform orange tile roofs, Sado's busy ferries and ships, and the yellow sandy beaches of Troia. The view is even more impressive at night.

Sesimbra nearby remains a thriving seaport and an active fishing area. Its lovely beaches are among the most unspoiled in the Algarve. From beautiful Serra da Arrabida, proceeding down a steep road, a primitive forest gives way to a deep cove called Portinho da Arrabida. Because of the treacherous nature of the narrow trail, it is best to walk down. The scenery quite stunning and the setting is romantic, as are the accommodations at nearby Pousada do Castelo de Palmela. Take a day to explore the grounds of this medieval castle, whose fortress dates from Afonso Henriques in the 12^th century. The Casa-Mae Da Rota Dos Vinhos, a wine touring center in Palmela, features excellent wines from this region, including the famous muscatels from Setubal.

Returning from the beach area of Sesimbra, signs direct adventure travelers to the fantasy Castle at Sesimbra, a site with miles of spectacular view. A beautiful cemetery lies within the castle walls.

Trip Plan Will Have It All in Southern Portugal's Setubal

Cabo Espichal, a cape on the tip of the Arrabida or Setubal peninsula, is one of Portugal’s loveliest and most distinctive regions. This range of hills runs out of the Sado River estuary west of Setubal, forming a ridge of limestone along the peninsula’s southern coast. There is an old sailors' chapel and a large convent like structure-- one of Portugal's few old retreat houses.

Setubal is home to many very fashionable shops, and very friendly people. The Antigo Mercado do Liviaments is a very large indoor market – wonderful to explore. Rich landscapes in a pampered climate and strong contrasts of sea and mountains make this part of Portugal a must see.

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