Spanning an impressive 17.2 kilometres, the Vasco da Gama Bridge is the longest bridge in the European Union and an engineering landmark in Portugal. Opened in 1998 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India, it stretches gracefully across the Tagus Estuary, connecting Lisbon to the southern wine regions. As you cross the bridge, enjoy sweeping views over the river, its protected wetlands, and the vast landscape beyond—a spectacular introduction to the Setúbal Peninsula and the beginning of your journey into Portuguese wine country.

Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Setúbal is one of Portugal’s most authentic coastal cities, renowned for its rich maritime heritage, vibrant food culture, and exceptional wines. For centuries, it has been a centre of fishing, salt production, and winemaking, with the surrounding vineyards producing the world-famous Moscatel de Setúbal. Today, the city is loved for its lively markets, picturesque waterfront, fresh seafood, and relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect place to savour traditional Portuguese cuisine before continuing your journey through the region’s celebrated wine country.

Your first estate is a working family winery in Setúbal wine country. Walk the vines, step into the cellar, and hear the story of the place from the people who run it. Then sit down to a guided tasting of four wines plus the region's famous Moscatel de Setúbal, paired with regional cheese, cured meats, jams and artisanal bread.

A long, unhurried lunch in a local Setúbal restaurant: a three-course regional meal with local wine or beer, soft drinks, and coffee to finish. This is the heart of the day, not a pit stop, so expect proper Portuguese pacing.

Perched high above the vineyards of the Setúbal Peninsula, Palmela Castle has watched over the region for more than eight centuries. Originally built by the Moors and later expanded by the Portuguese after the Christian Reconquest, the castle played a strategic role in protecting the surrounding lands and trade routes. Today, it offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views in Portugal, stretching across the vineyards, the Sado Estuary, the Serra da Arrábida, and, on a clear day, all the way to Lisbon.

The day softens at Quinta de Alcube, a family winery and working farm folded into the countryside. Pour more local wines at your own pace, wander the vines, meet the farm animals and settle into the golden late-afternoon light before the scenic drive back to Lisbon.

The Serra da Arrábida is one of Portugal’s most breathtaking natural landscapes, where forested limestone mountains meet the Atlantic Ocean in a spectacular display of colour. Protected as part of the Arrábida Natural Park since 1976, the region is celebrated for its dramatic coastal roads, secluded beaches, and remarkable biodiversity. As we wind through the mountains, you’ll enjoy panoramic views over the Setúbal Peninsula and discover why this unspoilt corner of Portugal is considered one of the country’s best-kept secrets.

As you cross the Tagus River, you’ll enjoy one of the best views of the Christ the King Monument (Cristo Rei), standing proudly above the southern bank. Inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s famous Christ the Redeemer statue, the monument was inaugurated in 1959 as a symbol of peace and gratitude. Rising 110 metres above the river, it has become one of Lisbon’s most recognisable landmarks, welcoming visitors as they journey south toward the vineyards of the Setúbal Peninsula.

Your journey ends by crossing Lisbon’s iconic 25th of April Bridge, one of Portugal’s most recognizable landmarks. Opened in 1966, the bridge spans the Tagus River and connects the city with the Setúbal Peninsula, offering sweeping views of Lisbon’s skyline, the river, and the towering Christ the King monument. Often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge for its striking red colour and elegant suspension design, it’s the perfect gateway to a day among vineyards and rolling countryside.