Once upon a time, Portimao was a thriving fishing and sardine canning centre. Though it’s now a popular tourist town with lots of top-notch restaurants and activities, the old centre still retains a more authentic persona.
Less than an hour’s drive north takes you to Castro Laboreiro, where wind-torn mountain tracks lead up to a 9th-century castle. Watch eagles swoop and lizards scuttle on the battlements as you sip vinho verde over sunset views of wild Portuguese wilderness.
1. Skydiving
SKYDIVING: Free fall from a high altitude, deploy a parachute and fly down to earth. This sport dates back to 1797.
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2. Megalithic Monuments of Alcalar
Take in the pre-history of Portim
Across town, the vast Praia da Rocha beach serves up golden sand and water sports amenities. Behind it a six-kilometer wooden boardwalk threads its way over the sand dunes and marshland.
3. Horse Riding
Tranquil country setting, walking distance to town and horse riding. A great place to relax and unwind.
Originally a practical requirement for teamwork between horse and rider in warfare, dressage is now a high art form. Other internationally sanctioned disciplines include cross-country jumping and endurance.
Pilgrimage on horseback recovers a tradition of the village’s farmers taking their animals to the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora d’Aires in Viana do Alentejo.
4. Jardim 1 de Dezembro
Located in the centre of town, this jardim is home to the statue of Manuel Teixeira Gomes. It is a popular spot for concerts and public events, especially during Easter.
You can also admire street art and take a ride on the Elevador da Gloria, a funicular. It is a great way to get from Restauradores Square up the serious incline of Calcada da Gloria.
5. Volkswagen Autoeuropa
The Volkswagen Autoeuropa industrial complex, located in Palmela near Lisbon, is one of the largest car plants in Europe. Every day, thousands of people and vehicles crisscross its 2 million square meters of facilities.
The company opted for Siemens’ Simatic RTLS to improve worker safety and increase production efficiency. Moovit makes getting there easy, which is why more than 1.5 million users, including locals in Palmela, trust Moovit for their public transit needs.
6. Palmela Castle
Located 42 kilometers from Lisbon, Palmela Castle is perched at 230 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views over the Serra da Arrabida mountains. Inside, you can visit cloisters from the old convent built in the castle and taste sweet Moscatel de Setubal wines.
Your journey has landed you here, and new adventures await! Let Moovit be your guide to help you get where you need to go.
7. KIP – Kartodromo Internacional de Palmela
Located in Herdade de Algeruz, the KIP karting track stands out for its exceptional characteristics, particularly the 1,270-meter circuit and constant 10-meter width. It is also home to a football field and a gym.
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8. Casa Ermelinda Freitas
Since the company’s beginning in 1920, it bets on the quality of its vineyards and wines. However, initially these wines were sold in bulk and without their own brand.
Leonor Freitas took over the management of the company and diversified its wines. Its vineyards are located in Fernando Po, a privileged area of Palmela. This region has a special soil and climate that produces wines of great character.
9. Castelo de Palmela
Palmela Castle is a medieval castle that overlooks the town of Palmela, the Sado River, and the mountain range of Arrabida. It was built by the Moors between the 8th and 12th centuries.
Enjoy a unique wine experience at one of the best known local vineyards in the region. Guests can enjoy their favorite bottle of wine at the onsite bar or try one of the delicious dishes served.
10. Montado Golf
Amazing for its size and cozy for its familiarity, this villa is located in the heart of Setubal vineyards. Just 30 minutes away from the beaches and Arrabida Natural Park.
Moovit makes public transit easy. With a single app, you can discover all the best bus and train times to Montado Golf. It’s fast, free, and saves you time and money.
