Meet your guide at your local Lisbon hotel for your day trip to Arrábida National Park and Sesimbra. Hop aboard your air-conditioned minivan and cross the 25th of April Bridge (Ponte 25 de Abril), often compared to the Golden Gate bridge of San Francisco. Then, leave behind Lisbon’s cityscape for the oscillating Cascais coastline.
Drive an hour or so and arrive at the stunningly green Arrábida Natural Park. Traverse this park while learning from your guide the history of this protected region. Continue to the golden sands of Albufeira Lagoon (Lagoa de Albufeira) and watch windsurfers and marine birds swirl in its waters.
Cruise onward to the beautiful cliffs of Cabo Espichel (Cape Espichel). Here, hop out to see Santuário de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel, a 600-year-old religious site where pilgrims gathered to honor Our Lady of the Cape. Then, snap some clifftop panoramic shots of the stunning Atlantic coast.
Next, drive to the charming seaside town of Sesimbra, where local fishermen haul in fresh catches from the choppy waters. On your own, stroll to the Moorish castle and discover its medieval roots. Afterward, stop for lunch (own expense) in Sesimbra or nearby at the bay of Portinho da Arrábida.
Reconvene with your guide and sail off on your 3-hour dolphin cruise (if upgrade selected). Step aboard an extravagant catamaran and enjoy live commentary as you search the Atlantic for dolphins.
Or, you can, continue to use remaining your free time soaking up the sun at Praia dos Coelhos (Rabbits’ Beach) and Praia do Piloto (Pilot’s Beach), Arrábida’s hidden golden beaches. Your day trip from Lisbon offers you options from here, either visit the stately Palmela Castle and Setúbal Castle or tantalize your taste buds with a food and wine tasting at a local Azeitão village wine cellar. Taste two varietals of Portuguese wine paired with local small plate specialties.
After an adventurous day join with your group for a ride back to your Lisbon hotel where your tour ends.
