Private Van Tour Arrabida and Wine Tasting

Explore the stunning natural landscapes and rich winemaking heritage of the Setúbal region on this private van tour. Explore the history of the 12th-century Palmela Castle and savor the renowned Moscatel de Setúbal wine. Indulge in fresh seafood in picturesque fishing villages before venturing into the Arrábida Natural Park, marveling at the dramatic cliffs and Atlantic vistas. Opt to visit the acclaimed José Maria da Fonseca winery, where you’ll sample their acclaimed Moscatel wines. As the day draws to a close, cross the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge, taking in panoramic views of Lisbon’s skyline. What more could one uncover on this captivating excursion?

Key Points

• 8-hour private van tour from Lisbon, visiting Palmela castle, tasting Setúbal Moscatel wine, and exploring the picturesque Arrábida Natural Park.
• Lunch in the fishing villages of Setúbal or Sesimbra, with opportunities to sample fresh local seafood specialties.
• Option to visit the historic José Maria da Fonseca winery for additional Moscatel wine tasting and learning about the winery’s production techniques.
• Stunning panoramic views from the Palmela castle and along the Arrábida Natural Park, showcasing the region’s dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and lush vegetation.
• Crossing the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge, offering breathtaking views of Lisbon’s skyline and the surrounding landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The private van tour of Arrabida and wine tasting offers an 8-hour excursion available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish.

Guests will start in Lisbon and travel 40 minutes to Palmela, where they’ll visit the castle and taste the famous Setúbal Moscatel wine.

After lunch in the fishing villages of Setúbal or Sesimbra, the tour will continue to the stunning Arrábida Natural Park to enjoy the scenic views.

An optional visit to the José Maria da Fonseca winery for additional wine tasting is also available.

The tour concludes by crossing the 25 de Abril bridge back to Lisbon.

Highlights include breathtaking landscapes, wine tastings, and the opportunity to explore picturesque coastal towns.

Itinerary

Guests begin the private van tour in Lisbon, traveling 40 minutes to the historic town of Palmela. There, they’ll visit the Palmela castle and taste the renowned Setúbal Moscatel wine. After, the tour continues to the fishing villages of Setúbal or Sesimbra for a delightful lunch.

Itinerary	Duration
Start in Lisbon	–
Travel to Palmela	40 minutes
Visit Palmela castle, taste Setúbal Moscatel	–
Lunch in Setúbal or Sesimbra	–

Next, the van takes guests to the stunning Arrábida Natural Park, where they can enjoy the breathtaking scenery. An optional visit to the José Maria da Fonseca winery for additional wine tasting may also be included before returning to Lisbon, crossing the iconic 25 de Abril bridge.

Palmela Castle and Moscatel Wine

Visitors start their exploration at the historic Palmela castle, where they can savor the renowned Setúbal Moscatel wine. This 12th century Moorish castle sits atop a hill, offering stunning views over the Sado Estuary.

Guests learn about the castle’s long and storied past as they wander its ancient walls and towers. The highlight, however, is tasting the unique Moscatel de Setúbal, a sweet fortified wine with notes of caramel, citrus, and dried fruit.

Produced in the nearby Setúbal Peninsula, this distinctive wine is the perfect accompaniment to the castle’s picturesque setting.

After this delightful introduction, the tour continues on to explore the breathtaking Arrábida Natural Park and the charming fishing villages along the coast.

Fishing Villages Lunch

After visiting the historic Palmela castle and savoring the renowned Setúbal Moscatel wine, the tour continues on to the picturesque fishing villages of Setúbal or Sesimbra for lunch.

These charming coastal towns offer a chance to take in the local culture and sample the fresh seafood for which the region is renowned. Guests can enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the quaint seaside restaurants, soaking in the sights and sounds of the working harbors.

Whether it’s grilled sardines, succulent shrimp, or a hearty fish stew, the lunch in these fishing villages promises to be a highlight of the Arrabida tour.

The tour then proceeds to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the Arrabida Natural Park.

More Great Tours Nearby

Arrábida Natural Park

The Arrabida Natural Park is a stunning coastal protected area, boasting dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Visitors can marvel at the park’s breathtaking scenery, including panoramic viewpoints overlooking the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Exploring the park’s hiking trails and discovering its diverse flora and fauna is a highlight of the private van tour. The tour guides are knowledgeable about the park’s history and ecology, providing insights into the unique ecosystem.

Guests can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, enjoying the peaceful solitude and taking in the sights and sounds of this natural wonder. Whether it’s admiring the vibrant wildflowers, spotting native wildlife, or simply soaking in the stunning vistas, the Arrabida Natural Park is a true highlight of the tour.

José Maria Da Fonseca Winery

José Maria da Fonseca is one of Portugal’s oldest and most renowned wineries, established in 1834 and renowned for its production of quality Moscatel wines.

Visitors to the tour have the opportunity to visit this historic winery and experience a wine tasting. The winery’s cellars offer a glimpse into the traditional winemaking methods used to produce their acclaimed vintages.

Guests can sample a variety of Moscatel wines, including the renowned Alambre and Pristino labels. The knowledgeable staff provide insight into the unique terroir and production techniques that contribute to the winery’s reputation for excellence.

An optional stop at José Maria da Fonseca is a highlight of the Arrábida tour, offering a chance to savor the region’s finest wines.

Crossing 25 De Abril Bridge

Crossing the 25 de Abril Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge spanning the Tagus River, marks the final leg of the Arrabida tour.

This architectural marvel connects Lisbon to the south bank of the river, providing travelers with panoramic views of the city skyline and surrounding landscape as they make their way back to their starting point.

The bridge’s impressive size and engineering feats are a fitting conclusion to the day’s adventures, leaving guests in awe of Portugal’s natural and man-made wonders.

As the van traverses the bridge, passengers can reflect on the stunning vistas of the Arrabida Natural Park and the delightful flavors of the wines they’ve sampled, completing a truly memorable experience.

Tour Inclusions and Restrictions

The tour includes transportation by private van, hotel/apartment pickup and drop-off, and a local guide who provides commentary throughout the day. Plus, visitors can enjoy included wine tastings and bottled water during the excursion.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as the terrain in Arrabida Natural Park may be challenging. The cancellation policy requires 24 hours’ notice for a full refund.

Fortunately, a ‘book now, pay later’ option is available for those who need more flexibility with their travel plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has a private van, so the maximum group size is not specified. The small group size allows for a personalized experience tailored to the travelers’ interests.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not offer discounts for children or seniors. Pricing is the same for all adult participants, regardless of age. The tour is designed for a private group experience.

Can I Request a Specific Departure Time?

Yes, customers can request a specific departure time for the tour. The tour provider is typically able to accommodate requests for different start times, subject to availability.

How Extensive Is the Wine Tasting at the Winery?

The wine tasting at the winery is quite extensive, allowing visitors to sample a variety of the winery’s renowned wines. Guests can expect to taste several different vintages and styles during this portion of the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. According to the overview, the standard tour lasts 8 hours, but the itinerary can be customized to personal interests, allowing for a longer experience if desired.

Recap

This private van tour offers a captivating exploration of Setúbal’s natural beauty and winemaking heritage.

Visitors can enjoy the region’s history, sample acclaimed Moscatel wines, and savor fresh seafood.

The tour also includes a visit to the Arrábida Natural Park and the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge, providing panoramic views of Lisbon’s skyline.

It’s a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for those seeking to discover the rich cultural and natural offerings of the Setúbal region.

You can check availability for your dates here: