If you want to climb in the winter and would like to feel that you are climbing in the summer, I suggest just going to to the crabs near the fishing town of Sesimbra Velha. This is a pleasant location facing south and southwest. In a sunny winter day it can be hot, but the temperature drops almost instantaneously as soon as the sun sets. It is a good spot to take todlers and children because the bottom has enough space for them to play around and there are no dangerous drops. On Sundays it can be busy with groups of people listening to loud music, which can be annoying. There are several routes graded V but only few graded IV so people who have some climbing experience will enjoy it more. We found out, however, that the grades are not always correct in the portuguese climbing books available, so you can be surprised. From top of the routes we can see far south and the view is excellent. Looking at our notes, I can see that we have been there in the months of December and January, and in fact, I think these are the better months to visit this climbing spot, especially on week days. After the climbing I suggest going for a walk in the evening around the town and have dinner in one of the traditional restaurants located at the back streets. And if one of the big portuguese football teams is playing that night, you will enjoy the environment even better!
