Spectacular Centre of Portugal

I was fortunate to be invited to visit the Centre of Portugal by Visit Portugal, Centre of Portugal and TAP Air. We flew direct to Lisbon with TAP Air, my first time to fly with TAP and I would HIGHLY recommend them! We arrived to a sunny Lisbon and we were welcomed with the MOST delicious and warm Portuguese tarts that I have ever tasted. Within an hour’s drive north of Lisbon, we arrived at the 12th century quaint, medieval town of Óbidos. This stunning, walled fortress has winding cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, museums, churches, and plenty of bookshops!!! Obidos is a perfect stop while travelling north of Lisbon. We were then spoilt rotten with a magical sunset on the coast at Santa Cruz Beach. Sipping Prosecco looking over the endless white sandy coast! What a fabulous day one! We then enjoyed a delicious dinner in Távola Lagoa Restaurant. Our boutique hotel for the night was Rio do Prado. This unique eco-friendly space blew us all away with its refreshing design and style! Having a greenhouse as a conference room where they grow their own organic produce and offer workshops and events too. After a very comfortable sleep, and a delicious breakfast the following morning, our next stop was the incredibly special town called Tomar. This beautiful town located on a lazy river offers great charm and it is known for its artistic and cultural wealth. Home to the astonishing Convent of Christ a World UNESCO Heritage site. We set off on an interesting walking tour of the town. That afternoon we set off to Fátima approx. 30 mins drive away. Firstly, a stop at the Luz Charming Houses tourist development, a unique space that consists of a “small village” whose architecture was inspired by the ancient villages of the Fátima region. The Luz Houses is a retreat to unwind with yoga, massage, heated pool, organic produce and the most stunning décor. On arrival at Fátima, we checked into the Hotel Estrela de Fátima before dinner at Apollo Privée Restaurant. We then set off for a Candlelight Procession at the Shrine. This was a very special, healing and spiritual moment for me! The next morning we set off to the coast, Nazaré. We stopped on our way on a Biking tour by A2Z, this was 14km cycle of magical coastal beauty which was a real highlight for me! We then arrived at the famous Nazaré beach, which is also a world-famous surfing location, home to the Big Wave Challenge in Praia do Norte. We wondered through the back streets for an authentic feel of the area. I could have sat and stared out at these magnificent and mighty Atlantic ocean waves for hours. But, we had to move on to check into the 5* Praia D’El Rey Marriott Golf and Beach Resort. All rooms have private terraces or balconies offering views of either the Atlantic Ocean or the 18-hole championship golf course and gardens. We began our journey back towards Lisbon the following morning along the coast. We stopped at Baleal Beach, another surfer’s paradise, then a walk through the cute Fisherman’s Village at Peniche before arriving at Óbidos Lagoon for our boat trip back to Foz do Arelho. The bird life here was unbelievable with a treat seeing Flamingos! After a delicious lunch we were back on the bus heading for our final stop, Quinta do Gradil Wine Tourism. Here we were treated to a tour and wine tasting. I could not resist buying a few bottles of delicious and tasty wine while here! (excellent value for money!) We now had our final evening at the Meliá Lisboa Aeroporto Hotel. The best airport hotel I have stayed in, and only 5 minutes’ walk to the terminal. The hotel had breakfast ready bright and breezy for us, and we departed for our direct TAP Air Portugal flight home. Before boarding we had a chance to stock up on freshly baked Portuguese tarts to take home with us! This particular trip was completely my cup of tea- abundant with outdoor experiences, delicious food and wine, plenty of sun and wonderful days spent in nature. My heart felt full after this trip, and I cannot wait to go back and experience more of lovely Portugal!