From the hilltops of the beautiful Arrabida open space, Fort Sao Felipe watches over the place where the river Sado empties into the Atlantic.
Although they are omitted from some historical lists, in the late 1500s Portugal was ruled by Kings of Spain. The coasts were beset by pirates, and the defenses of nearby Fort Santiago do Otao were augmented with the addition of this elevated fortification to better protect this strategic and important port. Indeed, Setubal was of such consquence that King Philip I attended the layig of the foundation stone in person. In the 20th century, it was briefly a hotel, and is now a monument, managed by the city, and operates a terrace cafe with breathtaking views across the mouth of the Sado.
You can learn more about its history here.
Fort/Castelo Sao Felipe is only a 3km walk, so Bernie and I decided to take a morning walk to explore it. We got there just as the gates opened (which was perfect, because making that climb in the afternoon heat would not have been a good idea!). After a leisurely walk through town, the climb to the fort is a power-walking workout, made entirely worth it by the stunning views of city, mountains, river, and ocean.
