Parque Florestal Monsanto

Monsanto Forest Park (Parque Florestal Monsanto) is a large, protected forested area to the west of Lisbon which provides a welcome opportunity to relax away from the traffic and crowds of the city.

This 10 square kilometre site is Lisbon's largest green space and offers panoramic views of the city, the Tejo River and the Atlantic Ocean.  The forest trails, some of which are quite hilly, are popular with walkers, runners and cyclists, and there are children's play areas, picnic areas and more.  A number of sporting and cultural events are organised here throughout the year. In addition Lisbon's main campsite (Parque de Campismo de Monsanto)  can also be found in the park.

This district was heavily mined and quarried for limestone during the 18th and 19th centuries, and the various ruined mills found around the park serve as a reminder that the area also saw intensive agricultural activity in its past.  In the 1930s, the forest was replanted with a diverse range of flora, using local farmers and prisoners from Monsanto Fort Prison to carry out the heavy work.

The park can be reached by car or by bus.  Alternatively, it is possible to walk, jog or cycle from the city centre to the forest along the Corredor Verde de Monsanto (Green Corridor of Monsanto), a track which starts at the northern end of Parque Eduardo VII, just off Rua Marques de Fronteira, heading south-west.  This route would take approximately one hour by foot.