The Nature Park of Arrábida - Electric Bike Tour
Description
Our tour starts in Lisbon, where we take the train for 40-minute comfortable ride to Palmela. There, we first stop at the Castle to taste the delicious Azeitao cheese. The view is breathtaking, especially on clear days, as you can see two rivers, Tagus and Sado, and two mountains, Arrábida and Sintra. We first cycle on the Vale de Barris, on asphalt and then on the dirt road, passing by pasture fields and vineyards, until we reach Vila Nova de Azeitão, famous for its Muscat wine, cheese, and pies. Then, we cycle towards the majestic Arrábida mountains. You can choose between two itineraries: along the beach to hit the water or through the mountains with breathtaking views. In both options, the azure blue of the sea is unforgettable. In Setúbal, there is grilled fish for lunch, fresh from the fish market, located a stone’s throw from the restaurant. The return to Lisbon is by train.
Tour Options
Itinerary
In Barreiro, a train will take us and our bicycles comfortably to Palmela in approximately 40 minutes.
In Palmela, we will cycle to the Castle. The Castle of Palmela is rich in history. In this zone, archaeological findings confirm human occupation from the neolithic period (310 AC). The earliest fortifications were built by the Muslims around the 9th century. Dom Afonso Henriques, the first Portuguese King, saw the Muslims abandon Palmela after the conquest of Lisbon in 1147. The second Portuguese King Don Sancho 1st had the fortress repaired and bestowed it to the Order of Santiago. From the hill, we can see the Rivers Sado and Tagus. If the day is clear, Lisbon and the Mountain range of Sintra are visible as well. In Palmela, we will visit some archeological sites and have a coffee break.
When leaving the Castle of Palmela, we will have the opportunity to contemplate the beautiful Valley of the Barris, flanked by the mountainous forests of São Luís, Laurel and Arrábida. It seems like a dream, but the road literally 'snakes' through this Valley. We will carry on along the less-frequented road of the Barris Valley, first on asphalt, then off beaten path between vineyards and sheep pasture.
Arriving in the town of Nogueira de Azeitão, according to the group's wishes, we can rest and taste the region's famous Muscatel wine, tarts, and buttery cheese. We can also drink the water that flows from the Fountain of the Astonished (18th century). According to the legend: "whoever drinks this water will remain bound forever to Azeitão".
Now comes the time to burn some calories by cycling up the Arrábida Nature Park. As we go up, sights over the blue sea are of indescribable beauty. Well above, we will see the Troia peninsula nestled between the Sado estuary and the unspoiled beaches bathed by the Atlantic Ocean. You can choose between two itineraries: along the beach to hit the water or through the mountains with breathtaking views.
Finally, in the town of Setubal, we will recover our strength and share our impressions around a table savoring some fresh fish.
We will return to Lisbon by train from Setúbal.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
- Tour available in multiple languages, please select at time of booking
Reviews(1)
George was our tour guide and he was excellent. George was very attentive to our needs and in wanting us to have a great experience and to see other parts of Portugal. He was very knowledgeable and shared information readily. My only complaint is that TripAdvisor did not accurately describe this adventure, My husband and I are in our early 60s and very active and in shape. However, the trip was difficult for both of us. Trip advisor states that anyone from age 12 to 99 can do this trip. That is not accurate.
