There are 50.000 hectares of protected areas including the Serra da Arrábida Natural Park and the wetlands of the Tagus and the Sado estuary.

This coastline has white, sandy beaches running for kilometres and flanked by dunes and cliffs.

Further to the south, experience the grandiose beauty of the Serra da Arrábida hills rising from beaches to the natural park. It quickly becomes clear why the Franciscan monks established their monastery here.

For nature and conservation enthusiasts, this region is wonderful. It includes two important estuary habitats, those of the Sado and the Tagus rivers with their wetlands home to diverse wildlife and an important ecological heritage.

These habitats are perfect for various types of fish, migratory birds and unusual but characteristic agricultural traditions.

Take a cruise on the Sado and meet one of the region’s great attractions, the school of dolphins, and a species unique to Portugal.

Enjoy the sandy, ocean beaches and calm seas of the Costa Azul and take a swim alongside these gracious mammals.