Ermida de Nossa Senhora das Brótas. Hike to Palmela. Portugal

Distance 9.3 km (gpx), Elevation gain 280 m, Elevation loss 214 m

According to the parish priest who in 1758 reported the disastrous consequences of the 1755 earthquake, there was a chapel near Cabanas that suffered significant damage. This was Ermida de Nossa Senhora das Brótas, located on a hill above the trail that today runs between Azeitão and Palmela. Several short but steep and narrow paths lead up the slope to the ruin. Nature is gradually taking over the space around and inside the chapel. Tall pine trees provide shade and soon might replace the missing ceiling. Plastered brick walls and part of the dome are what remains of the time-worn structure. Traces of blue paint are still visible on the vault. Arched windows reveal sprawling vistas to the north as far as the eye can see.

From the bottom of the hill you can continue to Palmela along the zigzagging road. The route will take you up the ridge with fascinating views over the land of Arrábida and São Luís.