Serra da Arrábida is said to have the most pleasant climate in Portugal. It is very popular with Lisbonites, who need only venture a few kilometres to the south to admire these limestone mountains covered by intense greenery that so inspired the poet Sebastião de Gama. There are breathtaking panoramas from some of the finest natural and historical overlooks on the peninsula.

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Setúbal

Castelo de São Filipe

Av. Luisa 2910 Setúbal

Architecture, castles and historic districts

This fortress, partly taken up by one of the most attractive pousadas in Portugal, dominates the town. Built in 1590, it is adorned with glaze and bastions in the Vauban style. Worthy of note in the chapel are the azulejos from the 18C which recall the life of St Philip, and the superb panoramic view from the top of ramparts.

Castle

2970 Sesimbra

Architecture, castles and historic districts

This is built at the top of a bare crest more than 200m above the sea. From the crenellated walls which surround the cemetery, the view extends over Sésimbra and its port.

The beach

R. Fortaleza 2970 Sesimbra

Nature and gardens

The beach is very lively at weekends and during the summer but remains the domain of the fishermen who from come there either side of the small fort of Santiago to untangle their lines and nets.

Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora do Cabo

N 379 2904 Cabo Espichel

Religious buildings

The 17C classical style church has a Baroque interior decorated with many gilt-wood objects. From the 13C onwards, the sanctuary has attracted many pilgrims.

Belvedere dos Capuchos

rua miradouro 2826 Caparica

Nature and gardens

A delightful view over the resort, the cliffs to the left of the belvedere, the estuary of the Tagus and the north coast as far as Cascais.

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MICHELIN Travel

Hiking around Setubal