On the other side of the Tagus, between Alcochete and Seixal, discover a picturesque region full of history and one of the most important nature reserves in Europe.
Settle in an authentic village just a stone's throw from Lisbon
You will just have to cross the Tagus by car or boat to slow down the pace and get a total change of scenery. When you arrive in Alcochete, one of the most typical villages of the region, you will find a breathtaking view of Lisbon. The historic centre and its small streets lined with fishermen's houses will welcome you with friendliness and authenticity. Alcochete was founded by the Arabs under the name of "Alcaxete", which means oven and whose origin is probably attributed to the large ovens used to bake clay. In the 15th century, this region was much frequented by the Portuguese nobility, who settled here for their summer residence and organized large hunting parties. Today, the salt marshes and the nature reserve bordering Alcochete, combined with its rich gastronomic offer, make it a popular place for weekend walks for the people of Lisbon.
Finally, the superb river beaches, Praia de Samouco or Praia do Moinho, which run along the estuary, are much quieter during the summer months.
Just next to it, you can stay in a 4-star resort with a breathtaking view of the Tagus, the Praia do Sal offers welcoming accommodation, a beautiful infinity pool, a Spa and the popular Omaggio restaurant, ideal for families.
For those who wish to go beyond a stay and live or invest, the residence Tagus Bay with its 3 swimming pools, garden and incredible views of the river is an option to consider. Only 20 minutes from Lisbon, but at half the price, the apartments with great amenities from 2 to 4 rooms all have beautiful terraces with barbecue and river views.
Seixal, another exceptional drop-off point
The other picturesque town on this side of the Tagus is Seixal, a large bay with a breathtaking view of the Tagus and Lisbon, just a few minutes from the 25 April Bridge and with catamarans (boat-buses) connecting the hyper-centre of the capital in just 16 min.
On the banks of the river, the extremely fertile area of Seixal was used during the Arab occupation for the introduction of various crops, such as vines, olive and fig trees. Thanks to its sheltered bay, in the 14th and 15th centuries Seixal was chosen for the installation of shipyards, an important industry at the time of the Discoveries, which was maintained for centuries. However, fishing was the traditional activity of the population for a long time. Today, the town has kept its authenticity, with a little bit of timelessness, and has benefited from numerous redevelopments of its banks and heritage renovations in recent years. The Seixal Municipal Ecomuseum tells the history and traditions of the region. Do not hesitate to take a walk aboard a typical boat or a visit to the Corroios Water Mill, which shows the processes of an activity dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries.
In recent years, this region on the other side of the Tagus has been welcoming more and more Portuguese families who want to get away from the pace of the capital. They have been joined by other populations (French, Belgians, Swiss...) wishing a different quality of life, more authentic and quieter, while being close to Lisbon. Just like in Alcochete, Maison au Portugal offers exclusive private residences such as Orizon or One River with views, gardens, swimming pools, basement garages and exclusive terraces.
For more information :
Hotel stay: Praia do Sal www.praiadosal.com - tel: +351 212 343 165 - email:[email protected]
Apartment offer in Alcochete and Seixal: House in Portugal www.maison-au-portugal.com - tel: +351 213 254 118 - email: [email protected]
