Palmela

Situated 27 miles south of Lisbon on the North-Eastern corner of the Arrábida National Park is the ancient, yet small, town of Palmela. The town has been, to a large degree, overlooked by foreign tourists and remains somewhat unspoiled. Its main attraction is the medieval castle which dominates the skyline for miles around. Perched on a precipice 1200 metres high, the castle has been of strategic importance throughout Portugal's colourful history. Blessed with rich fertile soils, the area around Palmela lies in the heart of a highly respected and prosperous wine-growing region.

Each September, the wine harvest is celebrated with the vibrant Festa das Vindimas (Grape Harvest Festival) and is a major draw for locals and visitors alike. The crowds adorned in traditional attire dance in the street, there's also processions, fireworks, grape-treading and the running of bulls.

The old quarter clings to the edge of the Arrábida foothills and retains much of its original character with narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses. Sadly in places, buildings are in desperate need of renovation. Although the Praça Duque de Palmela contains a 17th-century pillory and town hall at its head, the square isn't quite the cultural hub it ought to be. Close by is the 16th-century Baroque style church of Igreja de São Pedro, famed for its azulejos depicting the life of Saint Peter.