The secret side to Portugal crowned one of the best places in Europe to visit this year
HIDDEN GEM The secret side to Portugal crowned one of the best places in Europe to visit this year
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THERE are lots of famous spots in Portugal like the Algarve and Porto. But have you heard of Arrábida?
Just 35 minutes south of Lisbon, Arrábida is a beautiful natural park with huge mountains and incredible blue waters that visitors describe as "paradise."
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Arrábida has lots of beaches perfect for swimming and snorkelling
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There are lots of hidden coves to explore around the shoreline too
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Located next to the sea, between Setúbal and the lively fishing town of Sesimbra, Arrábida Natural Park has incomparable natural beauty.
It was described by Condé Nast Traveler as 'one of the best places in Europe to visit in 2025'.
It went on to describe the Portuguese destination as 'a hidden gem', with 'nature at its core in its purest state', castles and 'excellent wines'.
The Arrábida comprises miles of land and sea on the southern coast, close to Lisbon.
It has white sandy coves and huge mountains, but it isn't as popular as other destinations in Portugal.
But with rave reviews, it should be. One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: "You will be amazed! It's just wonderful!
"It feels like we're on the other side of the world UNAVOIDABLE. You must visit the park and the heavenly beaches."
Another added: "Breathtaking landscape! The colour of the sea ... a mixture of green and blue.
"The waters are transparent. You can sea fish around you! A paradise on land!"
Arrábida has crystal-clear waters and stunning coastline, so it's no surprise that it'a great place for water sports, particularly snorkelling and kayaking.
Explore Algarve with The Sun's Best of Beaches
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Swimming, snorkelling and coasteering is popular in Arrábida
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The Natural Park also has mountains and vineyards
Credit: Alamy
On the water are often boat tours and coasteering, which involves exploring the coastline by swimming, climbing, and jumping from cliffs.
There are also dolphin-watching tours because there are often sightings of Bottlenose and Common Dolphins.
Sesimbra is in the foothills of Arrábida and is often known as a good place to stay for anyone wanting to visit the park.
It has hotels, bars and clubs as well as cafes scattered along the beachfront.
Getting to Arrábida only takes four hours after leaving the UK, including a 50-minute drive south from Lisbon airport.
Plus, the European city that feels like an outdoor art gallery with 'rollercoaster' trams and riverfront rooftop bars.
And the city break with £1.66 beers that's hours from the UK.
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