The paradise 40 minutes from European city where James Bond had honeymoon

Picturesque beaches, chalk white cliffs, and turquoise waters might sound like the stuff of faraway dreams - but this hidden gem is hiding in plain sight, just under an hour from one of Europe's most vibrant capitals.

Welcome to best-kept secret - a radiant natural park where unspoiled coastline meets dramatic mountain scenery. And it's not just modern travellers who are falling for its charm. None other than James Bond himself - or rather, George Lazenby's 007 - spent his on-screen honeymoon here in the cult classic On Her Majesty's Secret Service.

While tourists often flock to Lisbon's busy streets, just 40 minutes south lies this cinematic gem, where scenes of Bond's fleeting marital with Tracy di Vicenzo (played by Diana Rigg) were filmed. And it's easy to see why location scouts were captivated.

Framed by the majestic Serra da Arrábida mountain range and lapped by the clear blue waters of the Atlantic, the coastline here feels almost Mediterranean - a lush contrast to the rugged surf beaches Portugal is famous for. Think hidden coves, shady pine forests, and chalk white sands.

The beaches of Portinho da Arrábida and Praia de Galápos are often compared to those of the Caribbean - minus the long-haul flight and jet lag. Early risers are rewarded with quiet, crystalline waters and a chance to spot dolphins.

But Arrábida isn't just about the scenery. The region offers a rich slice of Portuguese culture. The nearby town of Setúbal is famous for its fresh seafood, busy markets, and pastel-hued streets. And then there's Azeitão, a charming village known for its creamy sheep's cheese and Moscatel wine - both of which you can sample at centuries-old family estates.

Adventurous travellers can hike the cliffside trails of the natural park, explore sea caves by kayak, or simply soak in the views with a picnic and a bottle of local vino. And for a touch of history, the 16th-century Convento da Arrábida, perched dramatically on the hillside, offers a peaceful window into monastic life with breathtaking views.

The real beauty of Arrábida is that its astonishingly accessible. From Lisbon, you can be here in less than an hour by car - yet it feels like a world away from the typical air of the city. There are no major-resorts or crowds here; just the sound of waves, birds and the scent of wild herbs travelling through the air.

Some visitors on TripAdvisor left reviews, commenting that Arrábida is "a wonderful, quiet change from downtown Lisbon. The trails are rugged at times, requiring good walking shoes, and the ability to wear a long-sleeve shirt and pants. Other areas are flat and easy to traverse."

Others were not so thrilled by Arrábida and had a less pleasurable experience, noting that it won't be somewhere they return. As another review read, "We went to Arrábida National Park. The environment was fantastic. We stopped at the beach on road 379-1 near Figueirinha. While we were on the beach for a moment, our rental car, a Nissan Micra, was opened with a screwdriver. Our luggage-two camera bags with Canon gear, a mobile phone, and a lot of personal items-was stolen. Even my shoes!"