Comporta & the Stilt Pier

The Roman fish factory of Tróia, the stilt pier of Carrasqueira and an afternoon on the beaches of Comporta.

A peaceful day south of Setúbal: in the morning, the ruins of the Roman fish factory at Tróia, beside the Sado; then the stilt pier at Carrasqueira and, in the afternoon, the wide beaches and rice fields of Comporta. The pace is slow and entry fees are paid separately. For anyone looking for beaches, quiet and open landscape.

The day, stop by stop

1. 

   1

   Ruínas Romanas de Tróia

   On the banks of the Sado, on the Tróia peninsula, lie the ruins of a large Roman fish-salting centre, in use from the first to the sixth century. You see the tanks where fish and garum, a sauce much prized in Rome, were prepared, along with baths and burials, all with the estuary and Setúbal across the water. Entry is paid separately, and it is worth checking beforehand that the site is open. On sunny days wear a hat, as there is little shade, and comfortable shoes for the sand.

2. 

   2

   Cais Palafítico da Carrasqueira

   At Carrasqueira, near Comporta, fishermen built a pier of wooden stilts that snakes across the mudflats of the Sado estuary, so they could reach their boats at any tide. The uneven walkways, dotted with small fishing huts, are now one of the best-known images of the region. Walk carefully, as the planks are narrow and some are worn. It is a quiet place, with estuary birds all around. Come late in the afternoon, when warm light falls across the water.

3. 

   3

   Comporta

   Comporta is all long pale beaches, pine woods and rice fields, where storks nest on the poles and pick their way through the flooded paddies. The village keeps its low houses and slow pace, with a few design shops and beachside restaurants. It is a place for walking by the sea and eating well. Try a duck or seafood rice, paid separately, and stop at the stilt pier of Carrasqueira nearby in the late afternoon.

The essentials

Duration

8 h · Full day

Pick-up

At your hotel. The final price depends on where you are staying; we confirm it when you tell us.

Included

The car and the driver, only for your group, tolls and water.

Not included

Entrance tickets and meals.

Who it is for

Anyone looking for calm, beaches and rice fields.

The route