A Morning at the Market

Our adventure began with a warm welcome from our guide, Rui, who picked us up from our hotel and whisked us away to the vibrant Livramento Market in Setúbal. As a family travel writer, I always look for experiences that can engage both adults and children, and this market was a treasure trove of sensory delights. The kids were wide-eyed at the colorful displays of fresh fish, cheeses, and pastries. Rui introduced us to some of the friendly stallholders, who were more than happy to share their passion for their produce, even with our limited Portuguese. It was a wonderful opportunity for the kids to learn about local foods and the pride that goes into producing them.

We spent some time wandering the market, picking up some delicious treats to take home. The highlight for the kids was definitely the pastries, while I couldn’t resist the cheeses. The market’s atmosphere was lively and welcoming, making it a perfect start to our day.

Scenic Views and Wine Tasting

After the market, we drove through the stunning Arrábida National Park. The drive itself was a visual feast, with lush greenery and breathtaking views of the Atlantic coast. We stopped at an old fortress viewpoint, where the kids enjoyed pretending to be explorers while we took in the panoramic views of the river and sandbanks.

Our first winery visit was to the charming Quinta de Alcube. This family-owned winery was a hit with everyone. The kids were fascinated by the vineyards, and I was thrilled to discover a new favorite red grape, Periquita. The wine tasting was a delightful experience, and Rui’s knowledge of the wines added depth to our understanding of the local viticulture.

Lunch was at a local restaurant where we indulged in grilled black pig and black swordfish, both local specialties. It was a culinary adventure that even the kids enjoyed, especially since they had seen the swordfish at the market earlier.

Craftsmanship and More Wine

Post-lunch, we visited the Quinta de Bacalhôa to sample their exquisite Moscatel dessert wine. The kids were more interested in the tile factory visit that followed. Having admired the beautiful tiles throughout Lisbon, it was fascinating to see the traditional methods of tile-making up close. Rui’s demonstration of the process, from clay to finished product, was both educational and entertaining for the whole family.

Our final stop was at the modern Quinta de Catralvos winery. Here, we learned about contemporary winemaking techniques and tasted five different wines, accompanied by local cheese, jam, and bread. The kids enjoyed the cheese and bread, while I savored the wine.

As we crossed the impressive bridge back to Lisbon, I reflected on the day’s experiences. It was a perfect blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy, all wrapped up in a family-friendly package. Rui’s expertise and enthusiasm made the day truly special, and I left with a deeper appreciation for the Setúbal region and its offerings. This wine tour is a must for families looking to explore the rich flavors and sights of South Lisbon.