Augusto Pólvora Park

Augusto Pólvora Park is a public green space in the village of Maçã, in the municipality of Sesimbra, Portugal. It sits about four kilometres from the town of Sesimbra and serves as a place where locals come to relax, socialise or play sport. Its coordinates are roughly 38.4718 N, 9.0868 W.

What does the park look like and what is in it?

The park covers around 5.5 hectares. Rather than one open lawn, it is a series of rest and contemplation zones linked by a single pedestrian path. Along the route you will find benches, lighting and drinking-water points, plus toilets, so a stroll fits easily into a longer day outdoors.

It also has plenty of sports and leisure facilities. There is a skate park, a multi-sport pitch used for football and basketball among other games, and a children's playground. A separate area is set aside for young people, with meeting rooms and coworking space. Picnic areas come with tables, barbecue grills and water points.

How did the park come about?

The park was built on land owned by the municipality. For several years the site had been leased out and run as a camping park. The local authority chose to turn it into a space for recreation, socialising and leisure open to everyone. It was officially inaugurated on 28 July 2017, with the municipal chamber president, Felícia Costa, leading the ceremony.

The location was one of the project's strengths. Several schools stand nearby, and the park looks out towards the Serra da Arrábida hills.

When can you visit?

During winter, from 1 October to 31 March, the park is open from 7:00 to 21:00. Hours can change with the season, and the park has occasionally closed temporarily for maintenance work, so check the Sesimbra municipality website before you go.

Who is it for?

• Families with children - the playground, toilets and picnic areas make it easy to spend a few hours here.
• Young people and sports fans - the skate park and multi-sport pitch.
• Anyone after some quiet - rest and contemplation zones with a view of Arrábida.
• Visitors staying around Sesimbra - a stop between the beaches and sightseeing in town.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Augusto Pólvora Park? In Maçã, in the municipality of Sesimbra, about four kilometres from the town of Sesimbra.

How big is the park? Around 5.5 hectares.

Are there toilets and drinking water? Yes. Toilets and water points are placed along the path, together with benches and lighting.

Can you have a picnic there? Yes, there are picnic areas with tables, grills and water points.

When did the park open? On 28 July 2017.

What are the winter opening hours? From 1 October to 31 March, the park is open from 7:00 to 21:00.