Center of Portugal with Óbidos, Tomar, Fatima & Nazaré

Within 1 hours drive north of Lisbon we arrived at the 12th century medieval town called Óbidos. This romantic walled fortress invites you to wander and explore the ambience of winding streets, whitewashed houses, museums, churches, and bookshops. Step back in time as you peruse this enchanting, picturesque town once home to King and Queens. Throughout the year Óbidos hosts numerous festivals. Best time to visit would be early morning or late evening to avoid crowds. Ensure to visit the perfectly preserved 12th century shop/bar and house just outside the main gates of Óbidos. A must-see town while heading north of Lisbon. Moving on later in the evening, we enjoyed the most spectacular sunset on the coast at Santa Cruz Beach. A heavenly place with white sands and wild cliffs. This area is a hive for surfers and connects two meccas – Ericeira and Peniche. Professionals from all over the world frequent this area as there are over five world tour surf contests held here. Our host José treated us to a wonderful evening with a glass of bubbles watching the sunset before enjoying a fabulous dinner in Távola Lagoa Restaurant.

Our boutique hotel for tonight was stunning, Rio do Prado. This eco-friendly haven is a sleek space of style where you can enjoy Yoga, the spa, sauna, Turkish bath, and float room. Housing a vast greenhouse where they grow their own organic produce, offer workshops and events too. My room was the most comfortable, spacious, and decorated accordingly to their sustainable approach. A perfect retreat for the night with delicious breakfast the following morning. Our next stop was the incredibly special city called Tomar. Former seat of the Order of the Knights Templar, this city offers great charm for its artistic and cultural wealth. Home to the astonishing Convent of Christ a World UNESCO Heritage site. We embarked on an informative walking tour of the town while José explained the history of the area. Tomar is a hidden gem that every 4 years bursts with flowers for the famous Tray Festival “Festival dos Tabuleiros”. Picture a charming, romantic city located on a peaceful river, and you have Tomar. We were welcomed to visit the Vila Galé Collection hotel inspired by the Convent of Santa Iria and treated to a delicious lunch at the hotel before a spectacular tour of the Convento de Cristo.

This afternoon we began our journey 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 quirky yet stunning décor. An absolute delight. On arrival at Fátima, we checked into our superbly situated Hotel Estrela de Fátima before dinner at Apollo Privée Restaurant followed by a Candlelight Procession at the Shrine. A personal highlight for me.

Next morning we were on our way to the coast, Nazaré. Midway we embarked on a Biking tour by A2Z, thankfully a 14km downhill cycle which I will admit, I thoroughly enjoyed. Arriving at the glamorous resort of Sáo Martinho do Porto, a superb lunch awaited us at Pesca no Prato Restaurant with wonderful views over the seashell-shaped bay and stunning beach. After a lovely stroll through the streets, we were welcomed and treated to a visit of the charming Storytellers Palace Hotel, each room is named after a world-renowned writer whose work is available. Superbly decorated rooms, fantastic location and firmly on the return list!

Later we arrived at the famous Nazaré beach, which is also a world-famous surfing location, home to the Big Wave Challenge in Praia do Norte. An amazing beach, buzzing with activities. Stroll through the back streets for an authentic feel of the area before embarking on the cable car up the mountain to soak in wonderful views of the coast and visit the Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Nazaré. We checked into the 5* Praia D’El Rey Marriott Golf and Beach Resort. All rooms have private terraces or balconies offering unique views of either the Atlantic Ocean or the 18-hole championship golf course and gardens. We enjoyed some well-deserved down time in the Vitality and Champagne Indoor pool before dinner.

As we began our journey back towards Lisbon this morning along the coast. We stopped at Baleal Beach, again super popular with surfers, 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. We were lucky to spot white flamingos along the way and watch local fishermen at work. A 4-course lunch was served at Cais da Praia, and we were back on the bus. After a little snooze (needed), we arrived at our final experience of the trip, Quinta do Gradil Wine Tourism for our tour and wine tasting. One of the oldest estates from Cadaval, a property that also was part of the legacy of the Marquis of Pombal, Quinta do Gradil which has a strong wine tradition that started many years ago.

Just like that we were back at Lisbon for our final evening at the Meliá Lisboa Aeroporto Hotel. The best airport hotel I have stayed in with quirky comfortable rooms, a great vibe and only 5 minutes’ walk to the terminal. The hotel had breakfast on offer which we appreciated, and we departed for our direct TAP Air Portugal flight home.

Now that I know these towns, cities, villages, and experiences are so easily accessible from Lisbon I will be shouting about them. The list and experiences in central Portugal are endless. There is something for everyone, from relaxing on the beach to hiking a mountain and everything in between. The centre of Portugal ticks every single box. For off the beaten track, the hidden charm of the centre will take you close to the spirit of Portugal. From historical villages, mountain villages, inland cities, coastal cities you will find an abundance of activities.

A truly wonderful experience.

As always if you would like to discuss ideas and start planning your own personal experience, please do get in touch with me.

Obrigada!