Breathtaking views: trip by ferry from Lisbon to Montijo, Alcochete beach & pink flamingos
Away from the crowds, on the south bank of the river Tagus (Sul do Tejo), there’s the beach of Alcochete, located near the small city of Montijo . From Lisbon you can take a bus across the Vasco da Gama Bridge directly to Alcochete centre at Oriente station (431, the most frequent), or 432 and 437.
But it’s really worth taking a ferry at Cais do Sodré to Montijo, walk around in this picturesque village, have lunch and take a bus to the centre of Alchochete and walk to the beach called Samouco (ca. 15 min.)
Beautiful views: Lisbon city and the 25 April Bridge.
The ferry trip to Montijo takes about 20 minutes and give you a chance to enjoy the river and the views of Lisbon and the surrounding areas. Return ticket: euro 5.60.
Montijo, Praça da República
You’re away from the crowds…and it is really a pleasure walking around here.
Montijo , a lazy afternoon, September 2009, Rua Guerra Junqueiro. Not one tourist in sight! Coffee (bica) euro 0,60.
Alcochete , Samouco beach
From Montijo, take a bus to Alcochete centre and walk 15 minutes to Samouco beach (YouTube). You can enjoy watching pink flamingos or egrets (white heron) near the Reserva Natural of the Tagus river, which is famous for the birds.
Of course in July and August there are more tourists. On the background: Lisbon and the ‘twin towers’, Parque das Nações. Alcochete, like Sintra, has in the past been a popular haunt for royalty, coming here to relax and holiday. The town’s foundation dates back to the 7th century, after the Moors conquered Lisbon. Its name derives from the Arabic word for kiln, as there have been many found in the area. Bullfighting also has a history here, and bulls are still let loose in the streets during the Barrete Verde and Salinas Feasts (the second weekend of August).
Fitness exercises at the beach…. ! On de background: Vasco da Gama Bridge
Near the beach there’s a small cafe. Very nice people! Typical Portuguese snacks and drinks: coffee (bica) 0,60, glass of beer 0,60, Portwine 1 euro. Glass of whiskey 2 euro.
By car it’s ca. 30 minutes from Lisbon to Alcochete beach. The wonderful Vasco da Gama Bridge connects Alcochete and Montijo with Lisbon.
