strAv3L: Setúbal/Tróia package

(…)NATURE RIGHT AT HAND

(…)Further south, the Sado Estuary has another important Nature Reserve. This vast estuary communicates with the Atlantic Ocean. The notably diverse landscape of the 25,000 hectare Reserve includes dunes with rare vegetation cover, sandbanks, vast marshes, reed beds and thickets. But the main attraction of the reserve is the dozens of dolphins that live in the estuary and delight both adults and children, unique in Portugal and very easily observed. Other endangered species in the zone include the Barbastelle bat and the otter. We recommend taking one of the mini-cruises that depart from the city of Setúbal, during which you can admire the dolphins, the estuary and the stunning coastline of the Parque Natural da Arrábida.

ONE STEP FROM PARADISE

Arrábida is a spectacular landscape, in which human activity has been carefully integrated into the beautiful backdrop of nature. The Hills, the Natural Park, the beaches and the historical buildings show how the best of nature can lead to best of Mankind, if people are able to integrate natural elements into their daily leisure life, without ever failing to preserve and protect them.  The Parque Natural da Arrábida extends from the Morro de Palmela to Cabo Espichel, and includes three full botanical and landscape reserves: Reserva do Solitário, Reserva Integral da Mata Coberta and Reserva dos Vidais. It also has a zoological reserve on the islet Ilhéu da Pedra da Anixa, which includes the Parque Marinho da Arrábida, with fully protected species.  In the Serra da Arrábida, we can also find several beaches, such as Galapos and Creiro. But the main beach is Portinho da Arrábida, between the highest part of the Hills and the sea. This is a large beach of hot, white sand and is an absolute delight for beach lovers. In its waters, is the Pedra da Anixa, a small rocky islet that is very popular among divers.  For other pleasures, to be enjoyed at the table, visit one of the restaurants on the beach and try the popular "caldeirada" (fish stew) or some exceptional shellfish. You will also find interesting examples of significant human presence in Arrábida. Near the small Creiro bay are some interesting Roman ruins.  In the heart of the Natural Park, on a secluded hillside, is the Convento da Arrábida, originally founded by Arrabidino Franciscan friars who built cells, a church and other outbuildings in 1542. It is a fascinating collection of buildings that resembles a small village. Another important site is the 17th century Forte da Arrábida, the mission of which was to defend the coast. Today, it houses the Museu Oceanográfico do Parque Natural da Arrábida.  In Arrábida, walking is always the best choice. There is no other place like that.

text and photo from: http://www.visitlisboa.com

strAv3L is an all-in-one service, located in Alcochete (Portugal), that offers accommodation, touristic and cultural programmes as well as training in Portuguese as foreign language. For more detailed information, please visit out facebook page or contact stravel.portugal@gmail.com