Why Palmela is Worth Exploring
Our Colleague Lúcia viewpoint
When you are traveling from Lisbon heading south, you have a first glance over this beautiful village already from the highway, marked by the medieval castle on the top of the Mountain, that reminds you of the ones from the Fairy Tales.
This is one of my favorite places in Portugal.
During the stroll along the narrow streets, surrounded by ancient white houses, churches from the 15th century and breathtaking views from each belvedere, you already feel like are travelling back in time. Imagine the feeling when you get to the castle ramparts. Here you have the most beautiful views of the ocean, Arrábida Mountain and the countryside. People around here claim this is where the Mountain kisses the Sea!
You are free to explore this National Monument, its towers, the Churches and different corners on your own. There are also small shops where you can find local wines and hand painted tiles. If you want to have a local snack, you cannot miss the Taverna Bobo da Corte, that recreates the ancient Taverns, with long tables and barrels. The Portuguese tapas and wines are delicious.
There are also solutions for big incentives presented by the Castle Pousada. If you are looking for a unique Venue for your meeting and special lunch served in the Cloisters, this is the place. But the surprises don’t stop here. It is possible to organize a music show outside, at the Palmela Garden’s Amphitheater. The acoustic and the surrounding with centenary trees creates a memorable experience.
If you have a small group, there are other restaurants that I would recommend. Culto is the perfect place for a Sunset Cocktail, with its terrace and glass wall overlooking the village, followed by a delicious Gourmet dinner at the recent restaurant Naquela Mesa. Their Moto is: “Gather around the table where every moment is a treasure.”!
You can organize your visit and participate in the Yearly Events – The Wine & Jazz Festival in August, The Harvest Festivities in the first week of September or The Medieval Fair in the end of September.