SESIMBRA

The commanding Sesimbra Hotel & Spa reigns supreme at the eastern edge of the seafront, stretching majestically along a mile of the bay's golden sands, with the marina lying just beyond. Along this scenic route, travellers encounter an array of smaller hotels, abundant fish restaurants, and charming shops. Divided by the historic Fortaleza de Santiago, the beach unfolds into Praia da Califórnia on the west and Praia do Ouro on the east.

Fortaleza de Santiago

Dating back to Portugal's illustrious age of exploration, Sesimbra emerged as a pivotal port, requiring fortified defences against raiders. Erected in 1648 as part of an extensive coastal protection strategy, the fort boasts a polygonal layout with bastions adorning each corner. Within its walls lie the governor's residence, barracks, a cistern, a storeroom, and a chapel. Evolving through various roles over its storied existence, the fort has served as a royal summer retreat, the administrative hub of regional military governance, the headquarters of local coastguards, and a customs office. Designated a Monument of Public Interest in 1977, it now stands as a cherished tourist attraction, housing the Maritime Museum.
Daily: 08h00 - 16h00

Located within the historic confines of the Fortaleza de Santiago fort lies a captivating oceanographic museum, offering a treasure trove of maritime knowledge. Celebrating Sesimbra's deep-rooted connection with the sea and its rich fishing heritage, the museum showcases a diverse array of exhibits. Visitors can marvel at saltwater aquariums teeming with marine life indigenous to the Sesimbra coastline, alongside meticulously preserved species and artefacts spanning millennia of seafaring history. Immersive lighting and interactive displays elevate the visitor's journey, providing a truly enriching experience.

June to September Tusesday - Sunday: 15h30 – 19h00/18h30 - 23h00, Monday: CLOSED
September to May Tusesday - Sunday: 10h00 – 13h00/14h30 - 17h30, Monday: CLOSED

Rua da Fortaleza, 2970-738 Sesimbra, Portugal. | 38º 26" 34.4' N | 09º 06" 03.7' W
+351 212 288 206/7 | museu@cm-sesimbra.pt | Website

Adult: €3.00, Concessionary: €1.50, Family: €6.00

Venturing away from the coastline, Sesimbra unfolds its charm along winding streets that ascend steeply, revealing hidden gems and culinary delights. Nestled within these quaint lanes are the town's best-kept secrets—value-packed restaurants awaiting discovery. Amidst this maze, a notable landmark awaits: the historic Capela do Espírito Santo dos Mareantes chapel. Dating back to the 15th century, this revered structure once served as the headquarters for the Sesimbra Seamen's Brotherhood of the Holy Spirit, doubling as both a hospital and a place of worship. While much of the building fell victim to the devastating earthquake of 1755, the chapel persevered and was painstakingly rebuilt. Today, following extensive restoration efforts, it houses Sesimbra's esteemed Municipal Museum. The upper floor, reminiscent of its former chapel glory, showcases a remarkable collection of Sacred Art, including the exquisite Nossa Senhora da Misericórdia panel by Gregório Lopes, dating back to the 16th century. Downstairs, visitors can explore a medieval hospital, adorned with parietal drawings depicting boats used from the 16th to the 18th century, offering a fascinating glimpse into Sesimbra's maritime history.

July to August Tusesday - Sunday: 14h30 – 19h00/21h00 - 23h00, Monday: CLOSED
August to July Tusesday - Sunday: 09h00 – 12h30/14h00 - 17h30, Monday: CLOSED

Adult: €1.00, Concessionary: €0.50, Child: FREE
17 Rua Cândido dos Reis, 2970-724, Sesimbra, Portugal. | 38º 26" 37.9' N | 09º 06" 06.1' W
+351 212 231 134 | museu@cm-sesimbra.pt | Website

Constructed during the Moorish rule, the castle stands as a testament to Sesimbra's ancient defences, with its origins dating back to the era's strife against Christian forces. Despite falling to the Crusaders in 1165, its resilient walls were promptly reconstructed and fortified. Positioned strategically to the north of the city, commanding panoramic views over the coastline, the castle served as a bulwark against the incursions of North African pirates, safeguarding Sesimbra and its inhabitants.

Ascend the 230-metre trek to the castle's summit and be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the town, the tranquil Sado estuary, the picturesque Tróia peninsula, and the majestic Arrábida mountain range.

Within one of its towers lies a captivating museum, delving into Sesimbra's storied past and the evolution of Portuguese castle architecture. Explore further within the castle complex to discover the quaint Igreja de Santa Maria, boasting a modest exterior that belies its lavishly adorned interior. Need a break? A comfortable café awaits, offering refreshments amidst the historic ambience. Best of all, admission is free for all visitors, although do note that the Porta do Sol gates close at nightfall.
High Season Daily: 07h00 – 20h00
Low Season Daily: 07h00 – 19h00

38º 27" 10.8' N | 09º 06" 24.8' W

Established in 1971, the Arrábida Nature Park sprawls across 108 square kilometres (42 sq. mi) between Setúbal and Sesimbra, extending northwards to Palmela and culminating at the Tejo estuary. This breathtaking park encompasses a diverse terrain, featuring valleys embraced by limestone mountain ranges, rugged coastlines, and the imposing Arrábida mountain - Alto do Formosinho (499m), which commands prominence over much of the landscape. Within its bounds, the park harbours extensive Mediterranean scrubland and a myriad of microhabitats.

Perched gracefully on the hillside overlooking the azure sea, stands a pristine 16th-century Franciscan monastery, its whitewashed façade a beacon of serenity. Adjacent to this sanctuary lie five circular chapels, once retreats for solitary meditation.

Where the park converges with the sea awaits the crystalline waters of the Costa Azul, renowned for their clarity and warmth, enticing both divers and beachgoers alike. Notably, this coastal stretch gained cinematic fame as the setting for the dramatic finale of the 1969 James Bond film "On Her Majesty's Secret Service," where Tracy Bond met her tragic demise in a drive-by shooting orchestrated by Irma Bunt.

Snuggled between Sesimbra and Setúbal, where the enchanting Arrábida Natural Park embraces the coastline, lies a string of beaches, many proudly boasting Blue Flag status. Revered as "Portugal's Dream Coast" or "Costa Azul," this breathtaking stretch offers pristine white sands, inviting warm waters, and panoramic vistas that captivate the soul. To embark on this coastal adventure, simply follow the scenic M585 coastal road east of Sesimbra, or hop on a convenient bus from central Setúbal to access these coastal gems:

Praia Figueirinha, Outão

Set against the majestic backdrop of the Arrábida Hills, Figueirinha Beach unveils a vast expanse of soft sand, with a sandbank revealed during low tide. Its convenient accessibility, close proximity to Setúbal (just five miles west), tranquil waters, ample amenities, and Blue Flag status make it a favoured destination, particularly among families seeking a serene seaside retreat.

Praia de Galápos

Cradled within a sheltered cove, Galápos Beach beckons with its crystalline waters, attracting both divers and sunseekers alike. Accessible via a picturesque staircase, this idyllic haven boasts a gentle swell ideal for children and a hotspot for windsurfing enthusiasts. Ample parking, a restaurant offering marquee rental services and serving delectable coffee, and the presence of a vigilant lifeguard ensure a safe and enjoyable beach experience. With evidence of marine richness dating back to Neolithic times, Galápos Beach stands as a testament to the enduring allure of this coastal paradise.

Adjacent to Praia de Galápos, separated only by a few rocks, lies the serene haven of Praia Dos Galapinhos, offering a secluded retreat for visitors seeking tranquillity. Continuing along this captivating coastline, you'll discover Praia dos Coelhos (Arrábida), nestled in a small cove ensconced by a forest at the base of the Arrábida Natural Park. With its soft white sands and serene, clear waters, Coelho's Beach exudes an aura of serenity, complemented by its diminutive size and peaceful ambience. Accessible either via Galapos Beach or by boat, this hidden gem features a charming bar, adding to its allure.

Praia Portinho da Arrábida

Located fourteen miles east of Sesimbra, amidst the scenic route towards the Convento da Arrábida, lies the tranquil Praia Portinho da Arrábida. Accessed via a meandering road branching off after the turnoff to the eponymous village, this idyllic beach boasts warm, crystal-clear waters, making it a favoured destination for divers and sunbathers alike. Close to the village, visitors can explore a 17th-century fort, now transformed into the Museo Oceanográfico, housing a captivating collection of live and preserved local marine specimens. Enhancing the beach experience, a quaint restaurant awaits on the shoreline, with further dining options available in the charming Portinho da Arrábida village along the coast.

At the heart of Vila Nogueira de Azeitão stands an exquisite nineteenth-century manor house, steeped in history and heritage. Once the cherished abode of the Soares Franco family, proprietors of José Maria Fonseca, Portugal's oldest wine brand, this majestic estate has been meticulously preserved since its restoration in 1923 by the esteemed Swiss architect Ernesto Korrodi. Transitioning from a family residence to a living museum in 1974, the manor house now stands as a testament to the family's enduring winemaking legacy.

Adorned with an imposing façade and picturesque gardens, the manor house exudes timeless beauty, welcoming visitors into a journey through the annals of winemaking history. Embark on a guided tour that begins with an illuminating exploration of the company's rich heritage, spanning eight generations of tradition and values, seamlessly melding the past with the present.

Stroll through the manicured gardens to discover the cellars, where iconic wines like Periquita are meticulously aged. Renowned for its Muscatel de Sétubal wines, José Maria Fonseca's fortified sweet nectar, crafted from the Muscat grape and aged in oak barrels, awaits exploration. Delve into the depths of the winery's oldest cellars, where time-honoured vintages, aged over a century, lay hidden amidst cobwebs and shadows.

As the tour draws to a close, savour the opportunity to indulge in a tasting experience at the wine shop, sampling three hand-selected wines from the estate's extensive range. Elevate your tasting journey with regional gourmet delights, perfectly complementing the exquisite flavours of José Maria Fonseca's distinguished wines.

April to October 10h00 – 12h00/14h00pm - 17h30 | November to March 10h00 – 12h00/14h30pm - 16h30
Rua José Augusto Coelho 11/13, Vila Nogueira de Azeitão, Portugal. | 38° 31' 05.2" N | 09° 00' 55.5" W
+351 212 198 940 | enoturismo@jmfonseca.pt | Website | Facebook

Located two kilometres east of Vila Nogueira de Azeitão, along the scenic road to Setúbal, lies the captivating 15th-century Palácio da Bacalhoa, accompanied by its enchanting gardens. Esteemed as one of Portugal's most picturesque country estates, this grand residence was commissioned by King Manuel I as a summer retreat for his mother, boasting architectural marvels attributed to the renowned Tuscan sculptor and architect, Sansovino.

Distinguished by its Moorish-inspired melon domed towers and elegant Italianate loggias, the Palácio da Bacalhoa has undergone restoration efforts throughout the centuries, including a notable renovation in 1937 by the American Orlena Scoville. Within its hallowed halls, antique treasures associated with Catherine of Braganza, Queen of England during the 17th century, add to the allure of its storied past.

Step into the meticulously manicured gardens, a true Renaissance masterpiece, adorned with the country's oldest azulejo tile panel, narrating the tale of Susannah and the Elders. Amidst well-ordered French parterres, newly established vineyards sprawl, while fragrant rose bushes bloom year-round. Discover the serenity of an asymmetrical garden pool, reflecting the genteel Renaissance geometry of a lustrous 16th-century pavilion adorned with exquisite tile-work.

Embark on a comprehensive 60-minute tour of the palace and grounds, culminating in a delightful wine-tasting session featuring the esteemed Bacalhôa wines. For those seeking further exploration, tours can be seamlessly combined with visits to the museum and winery in Vila Nogueira de Azeitão, offering a comprehensive immersion into the region's rich cultural and oenological heritage. Note: All visits start at the Bacalhôa Winery in Vila Nogueira de Azeitão.

Monday - Saturday: 10h00 – 19h00, Sunday: CLOSED | Guided Tours 10h30, 11h30, 14h30, 15h30, 16h30
Bacalhôa Palace/Quinta: €4.00, Bacalhôa Museum & Palace/Quinta (inc. wine tasting): €6.00
Estrada Nacional 10, 2925-483, São Simão, Azeitão, Portugal. | 38° 31' 09.8" N | 09° 00' 49.7" W
+351 212 198 060 | bacalhoa@jpvinhos.com | Website