Portugal’s infrastructure is ancient. And mountainous.
Efforts are certainly being made; for example, the airport is considered exemplary in its support for people with limited mobility. New urban development projects also take accessibility into account. However, there’s no remedy for thousand-year-old alleys on a hillside. With assistance, Sesimbra is manageable, as are Lisbon’s lower town and Belém. Cascais is fairly accessible.
Those with limited mobility are welcome in our homes like anyone else with sensible thoughts, but they should be prepared for everyday hurdles. Sesimbra is ancient, narrow, and steep, presenting challenges for many older individuals. The city plans to address these issues with a state-of-the-art health center at the very top of the hillside. Currently, this is irrelevant because it’s still under construction.
To be honest: Portugal's geography, architectural situation, and ongoing political neglect create obstacles that sometimes even strollers can’t overcome. We assist wherever we can but must note that all properties have a few steps and bathrooms without special facilities.
Since the reform of public transport, bus line 3220 now circles Sesimbra all day and is wheelchair accessible. The nearest stop is on the promenade, right in front of the pizzeria. It’s called Avenida Náufragos. Alternatively, the station at the short-term parking lot on the curve uphill is Largo Almirante Gago Coutinho.
And for more severe impairments? It depends. We have a friend who, for a while, can muster enough strength to switch to crutches — allowing her to reach the promenade, which is considered wheelchair-friendly. At least here by the water and on the main street, things are manageable. The market hall, the supermarket at the bus station, and the fort are accessible via ramps. Additionally, there is a high level of helpfulness, as almost everyone in town has elderly relatives. Since dining and drinking typically take place on terraces, this usually poses no problem, especially on the large square at the eastern end of the beach. In the old town, the interiors are often narrow.