ALCACER DO SAL, PortugalAlcacer do Sal is located in the plains of the Alentejo region in southern Portugal. This part of Portugal dates back thousands of years, with ruins from the Phoenician and Roman period. The Phoenician’s were the ones who began Mediterranean trade in this region, followed by the Romans during the 1st century, and after the Romans came the Arabs. However, the early prehistoric settlements go back more than 40,000 years to the Mesolithic period. 
Alcacer do Sal is located in the plains of the Alentejo region in southern Portugal. This part of Portugal dates back thousands of years, with ruins from the Phoenician and Roman period. The Phoenician’s were the ones who began Mediterranean trade in this region, followed by the Romans during the 1st century, and after the Romans came the Arabs. However, the early prehistoric settlements go back more than 40,000 years to the Mesolithic period. Alcacer do Sal has an ancient castle that dates back 5,000 years. When the King of Portugal eventually re-captured it from the Arabs, the remaining Jews and Muslims vacated the castle and moved down to the lower countryside along the river banks where they were allowed to remain in the community under the King’s protection. Because of the castle’s historical significance, it was beautifully restored by the famous architect, Diogo Lino Pimental, and has since become part of the Pousada Group. The Pousada de Alcacer do Sal (Hotel dom Afonso II) is a luxury hotel that overlooks the Sado River, has its own swimming pool, and an excellent restaurant serving local and regional cuisine. Apart from its incredible history, the region also has many places of outstanding beauty such as the Trioa Peninsula and the Serra da Arrabida Natural Park along the coast between Setubal and the white chalky cliffs of Sesimbra. Directly west of Alcacer do Sal is the entrance to the Troia Peninsula. The peninsula is best known for two things; miles of white sandy beaches and the Trioa Golf Course. The golf course is located at the northern end of the Peninsula and was designed by Robert Trent Jones Senior. But for those interested in visiting ancient ruins, there is the semi-submerged ruins of Cetobriga, a town that which was destroyed by a tidal wave during the 5th century. Excavations have revealed thermal spas and a temple decorated with frescoes. From the north end of the peninsula you can catch the ferry to Setubal, Portugal’s third largest port, which has retained its original charm in the old quarter with beautiful monuments, attractive squares and quaint cafes. There are also boat tours available to take you dolphin watching. More or less next door to Setubal is the Serra da Arrabida Natural Reserve, a carefully protected park to preserve the natural vegetation, and dotted in the mountains are isolated chapels once used by Franciscan monks during the 16th and 19th centuries. There are only certain areas you are allowed to explore, and you must be accompanied by an official guide. However, you can also visit the Fort of Nossa Senhora da Arrabida that has an Oceanographic Museum providing information about the plant and wildlife. Beyond the reserve heading west is the small fishing village of Sesimbra which is famous for its excellent fish restaurants. In the old part of town stands a 17th century fort that overlooks the sea. Every afternoon the fishing boats come in and if you head down to the dockside you can watch the fish auction that takes place each day. From Sesimbra you can also drive or take a short bus ride to Cabo Espichel. The cape was an important pilgrimage site many centuries ago, and has magnificent cliffs with stunning views of the coast. On Lagosteiros Beach you will find some superb examples of dinosaur footprints. For those who enjoy outdoor pursuits, the Vale do Gaio dam is only 30 kilometres from Alcacer do Sal and has wonderful hiking and cycling trails. There is also an opportunity to hire a row boat, do some fishing, or even enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride. There is also the Sado Estuary which is a protected area with tidal marshes and a haven for many rare species of birds. There are also nature trails which can be explored either on bikes or horseback. There is no doubt this is an area that needs time to be able to do it justice, and Alcacer do Sal offers excellent accommodation as a base. So if you are a nature lover and feel like some time out in an outstanding area of beauty, this is definitely once place you should consider. About the Author: This article was written by Susan Bartle who is a seasoned traveller and freelance travel writer. Originally from Canada she currently resides in the UK. Recent research has resulted in expert knowledge of the Pousadas of Portugal and Paradores of Spain. Her webpage is at http://www.vvww.net/writers/srbartle.html. |