Along Alentejo‘s Atlantic coast, Sines is a photogenic treasure and the birthplace of one of Portugal’s most celebrated figures.
Curious to know who? Keep reading to learn more about this captivating town, its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delightful dining options.
A Glimpse of Sines
Sines is renowned for its massive international harbor, welcoming enormous vessels transporting petroleum products to the refinery on the town’s outskirts.
However, Sines offers much more than industrial activity.
Once you explore beyond the harbor, you’ll discover its true charm.
Beaches and Promenades
The beach in Sines is a standout attraction, offering one of the most organized beach experiences on the south coast of Lisbon.
Its sandy promenade, ample parking spaces, and inviting beach bars make it the perfect spot for relaxation and recreation.
As you stroll along the beach, the sight of the majestic castle perched above will capture your attention.
Historical Significance: The Castle and Vasco da Gama
The castle of Sines is not just an architectural marvel but a significant historical site.
It is closely associated with Vasco da Gama, the legendary Portuguese navigator from the 15th century.
Vasco da Gama led the first ships from Portugal to India, navigating along Africa’s west coast in 1497.
Although it’s uncertain whether he was born in Sines’ castle, it remains the most plausible birthplace of this renowned explorer.
Visiting the castle offers a glimpse into Vasco da Gama’s life and times, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Costa Vicentina: A Natural Paradise
Just a short drive from Sines lies Costa Vicentina, a stretch of coastline known for its unspoiled beauty and rugged landscapes.
This natural paradise is part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park.
The area boasts dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and pristine beaches, perfect for hiking, surfing, and wildlife spotting.
Caminho dos Pescadores: A Hiker’s Dream
For hiking enthusiasts, the Caminho dos Pescadores (Fishermen’s Trail) is a dream come true.
This trail is part of the Rota Vicentina, a network of walking paths in southwestern Portugal.
The Fishermen’s Trail takes you along the stunning coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and opportunities to explore secluded beaches and charming fishing villages.
It’s an adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural immersion.
Culinary Delights: The 5 Best Restaurants in Sines
No visit to Sines is complete without indulging in its culinary offerings. Here are the top five restaurants you must try:
1. **Restaurante Arte e Sal** This seaside restaurant offers fresh seafood dishes with a modern twist. The octopus salad and grilled sardines are must-tries.
2. **A Nau** Known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine, A Nau serves hearty dishes like bacalhau à bras (salted cod) and cataplana (seafood stew).
3. **Cais da Estação** Located near the harbor, this eatery combines great views with delicious food. Try the marinated mussels and seafood rice.
4. **O Castelo** Set in a historic building, O Castelo offers a romantic dining experience with dishes like garlic shrimp and black pork.
5. **Porto Covo** Situated in the picturesque village of Porto Covo, this restaurant specializes in grilled fish and local wines. Try the grilled sea bass and regional cheeses.
A Must-Visit for Photographers
For photographers, Sines is a visual feast.
The blend of historical architecture, vibrant coastal scenery, and bustling harbor activity provides endless opportunities for capturing stunning images.
Experience Sines
To truly experience Sines, plan your visit to the World Music Festival held at the end of July.
This event is a cultural highlight, featuring diverse musical acts from around the globe. For more information, visit [Festival Músicas do Mundo Sines](http://en.fmmsines.pt/).
Join me
Sines is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, foodie, or photographer, Sines has something to offer.
Plan your trip today and uncover the beauty and charm of this coastal Portuguese town.
If you’re interested in experiencing this adventure or any other from my repertoire, feel free to contact me via my travel agency, Iberactive
Alentejo, Portugal, is an unknown region waiting for your visit
Alentejo lies between the Algarve and a few kilometers north of Lisbon.
It’s split into High and Low Alentejo, occupying 33% of Portugal.
Surprisingly, it’s not heavily promoted for tourism, similar to the past status of the Douro Valley. Alentejo might become a major tourist destination if the Douro Valley’s transformation repeats here.
Nowadays is an ideal time to explore its attractions, such as its weather, plains, “montes,” cork oak forests, unique monuments, Cante Alentejano singing, rich historical heritage, distinctive cuisine, and renowned wine production.
Monsaraz, Alentejo, Portugal
Hot and dry weather most of the year in Alentejo
Alentejo boasts predominantly hot and dry weather due to minimal rainfall, even during its short winter.
Travel is usually pleasant, though summers can be challenging, with temperatures often exceeding 40ºC/104ºF.
Alentejo’s expansive plains, wheat, cereals, and cork oaks thrive, painting the landscape green in spring and golden in summer.
Vast plains of the Alentejo
Despite being one of Portugal’s flattest areas, the region’s topography often challenges the notion of flatness.
In Alentejo’s vast plains, wheat, cereals, and cork oaks dominate, creating a colorful tapestry of wildflowers in spring.
As summer arrives, the fields turn golden under the scorching sun.
The region’s topography challenges the notion of flatness, with ancient settlements often perched on elevated positions for strategic defense.
The Alentejo “monte”
In Alentejo, a “monte” refers to a land set with a traditional house atop a hill.
These houses, painted white with small windows, feature terracotta brick floors.
Outside, benches extend from the walls, providing shade for socializing.
Whistler, the oldest cork tree
High concentration of cork oaks
Cork oaks dominate Alentejo and are legally recognized as the national tree, shaping the region’s rural landscape.
Almendres Cromlech, Evora, Portugal
Peculiar monuments
Alentejo’s monuments differ from those in the north.
The region’s medieval structures are fewer due to historical factors.
However, Alentejo boasts unique landmarks like the Capela dos Ossos and Cromeleque dos Almendres.
“Cante Alentejano,” the local way of singing
“Cante Alentejano” Alentejo’s traditional singing style, was recognized as UNESCO World Heritage in 2014.
Men’s vocal groups perform without instruments.
Fascinating History linked to the Moorish and Roman occupations
Alentejo’s history intertwines with Moorish and Roman occupations, marked by medieval battles and reconquests.
Évora, with its ancient monuments and one of Europe’s oldest universities, holds significant historical importance. The city also has a rich Jewish heritage, notably in Castelo de Vide.
Singular gastronomy
Alentejo, known for growing cereals, relies on bread in its cuisine.
Many dishes feature bread, accompanied by pork, garlic, coriander, tomatoes, lard, and olive oil.
One of the best wine regions in Portugal
Alentejo, Douro, and Dão form Portugal’s top wine regions – my opinion.
Alentejo offers exceptional wine cellars like Herdade do Freixo, known for quality wine and stunning architecture.
To conclude
I hope this sparks your interest in Alentejo and my tours with Iberactive.com
With a sea landscape as my backdrop, walking to Baleeira Beach, offering the possibility of a swim in the ocean – it couldn’t be better.
This stroll provided me with an excellent photo opportunity and a much-needed distraction from my usual affairs.
Praia da Baleeira, situated between Sesimbra and Cabo Espichel, Portugal, is often touted as one of the secret beaches in the area.
While not exactly a secret, its somewhat elusive access means it remains relatively uncrowded.
Although the walk described here could be considerably shortened, the aim was also to propose a morning walk option.
Walking to Baleeira Beach
Start at Espiga coffee shop
Park your car near the Espiga coffee shop at the entrance of Casais da Azóia.
Here, you can indulge in regional delicacies alongside the traditional Farinha Torrada cake.
Fresh bread is always available, making it an ideal spot for a pre-walk coffee.
The suggested trail to and from the beach forms a semi-circle, utilizing both circular paths and the initial trail for the return journey.
Initially, you’ll traverse a dirt road passing by houses before encountering a footpath and denser vegetation as you approach the sloping beach access.
Be cautious: the trail becomes steeper in this area, requiring careful footing due to its technical nature.
It’s strongly advised to wear boots for better ankle support, as downhill sections feature gravel that can be challenging with walking shoes.
Additionally, bring sandals for swimming, as the beach consists of pebbles rather than sand.
One of the beach’s notable advantages is its southern orientation, providing shelter from northern winds.
Baleeira Beach
Baleeira Beach
Walking to Baleeira Beach
Walking to Baleeira Beach details
– Length: 5,5Km – Elevation gain/loss: 220m (to both ways) – Kind of terrain: dirt and gravel – Average duration: 2 hours non-stop
Baleeira Beach walk map
If you want to embark on this adventure and others like it, you can contact me through my company, Iberactive.
Discover the Enchanting Herdade do Freixo Wine Cellar
Located in the heart of Alentejo, Herdade do Freixo Wine Cellar offers a unique blend of universal architecture and the region’s captivating landscape.
As you step onto the estate, the youthful vineyards greet you, hinting at the promising wines they produce.
Although I was accustomed to northern vineyards, I immediately noticed the well-organized terroir of Herdade do Freixo.
Herdade do Freixo
Architectural Marvel
The first striking feature is the innovative architectural design of the cellar.
The building is ingeniously buried underground to take advantage of the natural ambient temperature, creating an optimal environment for wine storage.
This design also includes an intriguing chimney, whose purpose adds a layer of mystery and functionality to the structure.
The design ingeniously buries the building underground to take advantage of the natural ambient temperature, creating an optimal environment for wine storage.
Herdade do Freixo
A Warm Alentejo Welcome
True to the Alentejo spirit, the team at Herdade do Freixo welcomes visitors with genuine warmth and hospitality.
I went there for the first time on a consulting job, scouting for a winery that would fit an active tourism tour.
The professionalism and friendliness of the staff made a lasting impression, enhancing the overall experience.
Herdade do Freixo
Unforgettable Winery Visit
I stepped into the cellar and was instantly captivated by its interior.
The design is reminiscent of iconic structures like the Guggenheim, with fine-tuned lines and a natural flow that makes every explanation seem redundant.
The cellar’s design respects the landscape, creating a majestic and serene atmosphere.
Among modern wineries, Herdade do Freixo stands out as an architectural masterpiece.
Awards and Recognition
Herdade do Freixo has earned numerous architectural prizes, celebrating its innovative and environmentally harmonious design.
The project, led by architect Frederico Valsassina, showcases the perfect blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.
The building, constructed 40 meters deep, seamlessly integrates into the landscape, demonstrating a profound respect for nature.
Alentejo Wines: A Personal Favorite
This wine cellar sits in Alentejo, one of my favorite Portuguese wine regions.
The estate spans 1,000 hectares, with 26 hectares dedicated to vineyards featuring both national and international grape varieties.
The careful selection of these varieties results in wines that embody the region’s rich flavors and traditions.
Distinguishing Herdade do Freixo from Herdade do Freixo do Meio
It’s essential not to confuse Herdade do Freixo with Herdade do Freixo do Meio, another estate in the region.
Each offers unique contributions and deserves individual appreciation for its role in Portuguese culture.
Exploring the Region
The wine cellar’s proximity to Évora allows visitors to explore this historic city, known for its cultural and architectural significance.
Visiting Herdade do Freixo can perfectly complement a tour of Évora’s many attractions.
Herdade do Freixo
Conclusion
Herdade do Freixo Wine Cellar is more than just a place to taste exquisite wines; it’s an architectural gem that honors the landscape of Alentejo.
The dedication to sustainable and innovative design, coupled with the warm hospitality of the region, makes it a must-visit destination.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, Herdade do Freixo offers an enriching and unforgettable experience.
The cork stopper is the first thing we see when we open a bottle of good wine, and there is a 50% chance of it being a Portuguese cork.
A bottle of good wine requires a top-quality cork stopper. The cork’s physical characteristics and the sobriety and distinction it adds to the wine are essential.
However, cork has vast applications beyond stoppers.
Nowadays, we find cork used in footwear, clothing, mechanical joints, thermal insulation, acoustic insulation, flooring, steering wheel covers, mobile phone covers, etc.
Please note that Cork has a very discreet but classy presence.
Cork piles from Portugal.
Have you ever wondered where cork comes from?
Well, Portuguese cork is one of the topics that generate the most questions during my tours, alongside questions about wine.
It indicates a specific knowledge about Portugal, considering cork is one of the country’s most important products.
Allow me to present some quantitative data to explain the importance of cork in Portugal and the world:
Portugal produces 49.6% of the world’s cork (100,000 tons, 2010).
Portugal exports € 985.2 million out of a total of € 1578.2 million, representing 62.4% of the world cork market share.
The cork oak is Portugal’s second most prevalent tree, occupying 23% of the forested areas in 2010.
The cork tree with the harvest year painted on it
How is cork made from the cork oak?
I will outline the essential sequence from planting cork oak trees to producing cork stoppers.
However, I need to separate it into four sections: the “montado,” the cork oak, the cork, and the cork stopper.
What is a “montado”
The “montado,” predominantly found in Portugal’s southern region of Alentejo, comprises an ecosystem where cork oaks, holm oaks, livestock, various bird species, and cereal plantations coexist.
It significantly influences Portuguese culture, shaping lifestyle, gastronomy, and traditional music.
Despite its prevalence in Alentejo, cork oaks also thrive in scattered areas across the country.
Notably, the “montado” fosters biodiversity and sustains vital agricultural practices.
During winters, it evokes nostalgia with its golden cereal fields and warm breezes.
Cattle like Alentejo sheep, Mertolenga cows, and black pigs forage on cork oak acorns, enhancing local delicacies. However, not all cork oak clusters constitute a “montado.”
Those lacking a comprehensive ecosystem are termed “sobreiral.”
These areas lack biodiversity and often have trees planted closer together for more intensive cropping.
Despite variations, the “montado” remains integral to Portugal’s identity and environmental sustainability.
It symbolizes the harmonious coexistence of nature and human activity, preserving traditions while supporting modern agricultural practices.
As visitors explore the “montado,” they encounter painted numbers on cork oak trees, marking the last cork stripping year—a testament to its enduring importance and cyclical nature.
Whistler, the oldest cork tree
Facts about cork oaks
The cork oak, scientifically known as Quercus suber, is an oak family tree.
Like other oaks, it bears acorns, which black pigs feed on, enhancing pork taste.
These medium-sized trees, about 15 meters high and never more than 25 meters, can live for 200 years or more.
The oldest cork oak in the world is in Portugal, in Águas de Moura village, called Whistler, or Sobreiro Assobiador in Portuguese, due to the numerous birds often found there.
Whistler was planted in 1783 and stands over 14 meters high.
2018, this Portuguese cork oak won the European distinction of “The Tree Of The Year.”
Since 1820, this cork oak has been stripped about twenty times. In 1991 alone, 1,200 kg of cork was removed, yielding over 100,000 cork stoppers.
Portuguese cork production
The outer layer of the cork oak trunk consists of dead plant cells, known as cork.
Removing cork from the tree does not harm it; it is comparable to trimming nails for humans.
Cork extraction is exclusive to cork oaks.
The process of cork growth is lengthy.
In Portugal, it is believed that cork harvesting from self-planted trees is rare. This is because of the following reasons.
The first stripping occurs when the tree reaches 25 years of age, provided its trunk perimeter is at least 70 cm at a height of 1.3 m from the ground. This yields cork known as “virgin,” with low commercial value.
At 34 years, the second stripping takes place, nine years after the initial one. Although not suitable for cork stoppers, this cork is ideal for granules and other products, termed as “secundeira” or the second one.
Subsequent strippings occur every nine years from the age of 43 and onwards. This cork, known as “amadia” or reproduction cork, possesses the quality required for cork stoppers or other cork products.
Following this, cork-stopper production begins.
Before delving into this, let’s discuss the stripping process.
Stripping cork oaks remains a manual process, with no foreseeable replacement with machinery.
It involves skillfully using an ax to remove large cork boards, done during the hot period from mid-May to late August when temperatures can reach up to 45º C.
The boards are then transported to the factory, where they are boiled to remove impurities and flattened for calibration before being used in production.
Different products are manufactured based on the quality of the boards.
Though I can’t detail all cork products here, let’s focus on cork stoppers. Additionally, I’ve included some informative links for further exploration.
In 2016, Portugal’s cork industry generated a turnover of €1,466 million, with €785 million attributed to the manufacturing of cork stoppers, constituting 53.5% of the cork market in Portugal.
Yes, astonishing!
Did you know that cork stoppers were initially crafted from rectangular cork pieces, which were then manually adjusted to the desired diameter?
It wasn’t until the early 20th century that the machine, known as Galorpa, was invented for this purpose, initiating industrial production of stoppers.
While I won’t delve into the entire production process, two steps stand out:
Visual selection. Although each cork stopper undergoes electronic inspection, human discernment is crucial in determining their quality.
Marking is also vital. Each cork stopper is branded with ink or fire, bearing the distinctive mark of the customer, ensuring the wine’s authenticity upon opening. Now you understand why the sommelier presents you with the cork stopper after opening an expensive bottle of wine.
The well-known commercial threat posed by plastic, rubber stoppers, and metal caps to the cork stopper market persists.
While artificial stoppers are increasingly prevalent in less expensive wines and in many countries, this trend has yet to catch on in Portugal.
However, some cork alternatives, such as the Helix system by Corticeira Amorim, are being introduced to compete against artificial corks, for which I extend my sincerest wishes for success.
Montado area – cork trees and much more
The environmental impact
This section may offer many pleasant surprises.
In an era where the world is increasingly attentive to environmental concerns, understanding how each industry contributes to reducing its ecological footprint is crucial.
The Portuguese cork industry’s contribution couldn’t be more significant, as it absorbs more carbon from the environment than it produces.
According to a document by Corticeira Amorim, the largest cork company in Portugal:
The worldwide scientific community acknowledges that greenhouse gas emissions cause global warming.
Forests play a crucial role in combating this phenomenon by absorbing carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, storing it in trees and soil.
The long lifespan of cork oak trees makes them particularly effective at storing carbon.
Studies comparing cork stoppers to alternatives like aluminum and plastic show that cork is the most environmentally friendly choice, minimizing carbon footprint.
Cork oak forests have the remarkable ability to absorb 14.7 tons of CO2 per hectare, with the Western Mediterranean alone storing around 30.66 million tons of CO2.
To conclude this subject, I’d like to recommend one of the best documentaries I’ve encountered: “BBC Cork Forest in a Bottle.“
I hope my insights have contributed to enhancing your understanding of Portuguese cork and helped you appreciate the cork products available for purchase in Portugal.
I stand at the summit of the Arrabida Hills, marveling at the breathtaking view and wondering why I don’t frequent this spot more often—I truly love it here.
Teammates’ speechless expressions conveyed fragmented ideas, adding to the amazing experience.
This summit, known as Formosinho, rises 501 meters high, making it the highest point in the Setúbal District.
“For me, the journey itself holds more value than just the destination.”
While climbing this summit poses no significant challenge, what truly makes it exciting is the unparalleled view it offers.
The vista encompasses a diverse landscape filled with intricate details, making it truly one of a kind.
From here, we can observe the sea, mountains, small ridges, vineyards, fruit tree fields, urban areas, and more—a mosaic of scenery that changes with each turn.
Personally, I find the sight of the sea most captivating, with its seemingly endless stretch of beach.
This 360-degree panorama has won my heart.
Arrabida Natural Pak Map
I marked the Formosinho summit with a red dot on the map. I’ll describe the area in four quadrants, counterclockwise, starting from the north.
Arrabida Natural Pak Map – 1st Quadrant – South/East
1st Quadrant – South/East
The landscape is dominated by the Tróia peninsula, a lengthy strip of sand adorned with summer apartment buildings.
Further out into the ocean, opposite the peninsula’s “head,” lies a vast outer ring of sand that transforms into an expansive beach during low tide.
As I gaze upon this scene, I envision the dolphins that often grace the waters of the nearby river Sado.
Tróia boasts a captivating Roman heritage that I plan to delve into in a future post.
The journey from Setúbal to Tróia involves a ferry crossing the river—a brief boat ride that I’ve always found enjoyable.
From my vantage point, I can observe green dots moving on the river, indicating the ferries traversing its waters.
Although I can’t see the entirety of the river Sado estuary from here, glimpsing its mouth brings to mind hidden treasures within, such as the archaeological station of Abul with its Phoenician heritage.
This quadrant is famous for its stunning beaches, including Portinho da Arrabida, Figueirinha, and Galapos, which are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and breathtaking beauty.
Arrabida Natural Pak Map – 2nd Quadrant – North/East
2nd Quadrant – North/East
As I turn eastward, I find myself facing Setúbal, even though the city itself is not visible.
However, I can discern the endpoint of its industrial belt, evoking mixed emotions within me.
A conflict arises between social development relying on large factories and preserving the fragile environment of the river Sado mouth.
When I glance towards Alcochete, almost directly north, I attempt to catch sight of the open spaces of Ribatejo.
Unfortunately, they remain too distant for me to distinguish any settlements.
Setúbal, the nearest city, holds significance as the birthplace of our renowned 18th and 19th-century writer Bocage, who is credited with numerous anecdotes and witty sayings.
Arrabida Natural Pak Map – 3rd Quadrant – North/West
3rd Quadrant – North/West
In this quadrant, Lisbon comes into view.
However, all I can discern is a sprawling mass of houses seemingly attached to the Sintra Hills.
Despite this proximity, Sintra is actually a 30-minute drive from Lisbon, creating an optical illusion of distance.
Amidst this panorama, numerous vineyards dot the landscape, although they are challenging to distinguish individually.
Among them, Quinta da Bacalhôa and José Maria da Fonseca stand out as local wine producers acclaimed in Portugal’s esteemed gallery of the finest.
It is in these vineyards that one can find the prized Moscatel grapes used in the production of the renowned “Moscatel de Setúbal” wine, acclaimed as the world’s best Moscatel.
This fortified amber-colored wine holds a special place in my heart.
For a humorous and informative explanation of “Moscatel de Setúbal,” check out this entertaining 2 minutes and 30 seconds video [link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1LrMXXhkaI].
In the quaint village of Azeitão, one can also discover two other exceptional products: Azeitão cheese and Azeitão pies, also known as Tortas de Azeitão.
Azeitão cheese, crafted from sheep’s milk, boasts a delicate yellow hue and a creamy, buttery texture—perfect for spreading on toast.
Meanwhile, Tortas de Azeitão are small, rolled cakes made from flour and eggs, delivering a delectable treat for the palate.
Arrabida Natural Pak Map – 4th Quadrant – South/West
4th Quadrant – South/West
When I turn to the W/S quadrant and look downward, which is precisely the direction we need to head to depart from here, I notice some crosses silhouetted against the hills leading to the sea.
These crosses mark the Arrabida Convent complex, which has always exuded an aura of mystery due to its modesty, tranquility, and isolation.
Closer to the road, we observe a cluster of ancient buildings, while farther up the hills, a series of shrines and crosses evoke the meditation cells once inhabited by the convent’s monks.
The construction of the Arrabida Convent dates back to the 16th century and comprises four main structures: the Old Convent, the New Convent, the garden, and the Bom Jesus Sanctuary.
Historical records suggest the presence of a chapel at the site before the convent’s establishment, making it a pilgrimage destination.
Long ago, four friars joined the convent and endured a harsh existence, living for two years in excavated cells.
Toward the west, the village of Sesimbra remains hidden between two hills.
Sesimbra, a quaint fishing village with a bustling port, boasts a beach that draws crowds during the summer months.
The lively atmosphere of summer nights in Sesimbra is fueled by numerous restaurants serving freshly grilled fish dishes right on the streets.
To complete
I realize this was quite a lengthy read, but I sincerely hope you found it enjoyable.
