Vila Fresca de Azeitão

Vila Fresca de Azeitão is just 2 km east of the larger village of Vila Nogueira de Azeitão. Both are south of Lisbon and west of Setubal. Like its near neighbor, Vila Fresca de Azeitão has a charming fountain, the 18th century Chafariz de Vila Fresca.

Chafariz de Vila Fresca

There's a church too, the Igreja de São Simão. This dates back originally to the 12th century and its founding by the military Order of Santiago, though the present church is from the 16th century with impressive azulejos tile panels inside from a century later.

Igreja de São Simão

Also in the village is the Quinta de Bacalhôa.

This is one of the largest wineries and vineyards in this area of Portugal. It is now owned by the business magnate José (Joe) Berardo, one of Portugal's richest people, who made his fortune in gold mining in South Africa.

Quinta de Bacalhôa

Coming from a background in the wine trade in Madeira, Berardo has an interest in wine which he has combined with his love of art in the renovation of the Quinta de Bacalhôa. The name, by the way, ("Mrs. Cod") comes from previous owners with interests in the bacalhau (cod) trade.

The palace dates from the 18th century and is stocked with art and azulejos tiles from the 15th and 16th centuries. Guided tours of the palace can be arranged at the Bacalhôa headquarters (Bacalhôa Vinhos de Portugal) back in Vila Nogueira de Azeitão.

Quinta de Bacalhôa

On the road to Quinta de Bacalhôa are two more quinta: Quinta dos Torres and Quinta Velha Queijeira de Azeitão. Quinta dos Torres can be hired for such events as weddings and conferences. The Quinta Velha Queijeira de Azeitão is a working family-owned farm producing the local cheese, Queijo de Azeitão, and with ancient olive trees in its grounds.

Quinta dos Torres

Access - Getting There

Azeitão is best reached by bus from either Coina Station on the Fertagus Line from Lisbon or bus from Setubal. Vila Fresca de Azeitão is on the N10 road.

Accommodation in Portugal

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