Natural Park protected since 1976
17,000 hectares of wild Mediterranean, Europe's unique marine reserve and endemic vegetation.
The Arrábida Natural Park was created in 1976 to protect one of the last intact samples of authentic Mediterranean vegetation on the Iberian Peninsula. It encompasses the Arrábida mountain range, part of the Sado estuary and Portugal's first continental Marine Reserve — a 53 km² sanctuary in the ocean protected against industrial fishing.
The mountain range stretches 35 km from west (Sesimbra) to east (Setúbal), with altitudes between 0 and 501m (Pico do Formosinho). It is formed of Jurassic limestone — which explains the white cliffs that plunge into the sea and the transparent turquoise water of the beaches. In some areas you can find marine fossils hundreds of metres above sea level.
More than 1,400 plant species, of which 70 are endemic to the region. Bonelli's eagle (endangered in Portugal), peregrine falcon, genet, fox, wild boar, and the only resident population of bottlenose dolphins in a river estuary in Europe. The Marine Reserve protects octopus, grouper, sea bream and starfish — ideal for snorkelling.
Four signposted trails cross the park. PR1 — Cabeços Trail (8 km, 3h, medium difficulty) climbs to Formosinho. PR2 — Risco Trail (5 km, 2h) with panoramic views. PR3 — Convent Trail (4 km, 1h30) reaches the 18th-century convent. PR4 — Comenda Trail (12 km, 4-5h) the most complete.
Created in 1998, it is Portugal's only continental marine reserve. It has 3 zones: total protection (access only with scientific authorisation), partial protection (regulated artisanal fishing) and complementary protection (controlled recreational activities). Diving with licence, free snorkelling. Result: marine biodiversity recovering visibly year after year.
Lighting fires, camping outside designated areas, collecting plants, feeding fauna or leaving litter (including cigarette butts and fruit peels) is prohibited. In July-September, access to Galapinhos/Portinho is restricted by capacity. Drones require prior ICNF authorisation. Dogs on leash only. Swimming with dogs only outside bathing season.
Local tips
No. Entry to the Natural Park is free. Only some specific activities (guided tours, diving) are paid.
There are no regular lines inside the park, except the electric mini-bus between Setúbal and Portinho/Galapinhos in summer. For trails and the convent you need your own car or taxi.
Yes, in designated areas (Portinho, Cego park). Lighting fires, barbecues or leaving any litter is prohibited.
Yes, but only on guided tours organised by Fundação Oriente (owner of the property). Booking required in advance via fundacaooriente.pt.
4 casas históricas dentro do Parque Natural — desde retiro romântico para 2 a casa solarenga para 10 hóspedes.
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