Group tour: Obidos, Alcobaca, Batalha, Nazare, Fatima - Stories of the Middle Ages
About this experience
Get ready to immerse yourself in the centuries-old legends as we travel to ancient Portuguese towns that preserve stories of kings, knights, and monks. Charming Obidos hidden behind defensive walls, picturesque Nazare attracting the bravest surfers in the world, mysterious Fatima, as well as Alcobaca and Batalha with their magnificent treasures, will captivate you with their provincial charm. These towns are located a short distance from each other, and we will have a day to explore each of them.
What to expect
Mystical Obidos
Let's peek behind the fortress walls of the city, whose name means 'citadel' in translation. White houses with red tiles, only two quiet streets, scents of fragrant geranium and traditional seaside dishes - everything here resembles illustrations from fairy tales. I will tell you the story of Obidos, the 'queen's city', the 'cherry town', the 'chocolate capital of Portugal', and show you the main attractions - the ancient castle and the Santa Maria church.
Breathtaking views of Nazare
Next, we will head to the cozy fishing town known for the highest waves in the world. You will see professional surfers conquering the sea giants, hear the legend of the miraculous rescue of the local king by Virgin Mary, and visit the historic district of Sitio in the city. We will explore the Our Lady of Nazare sanctuary and chapel, where the Black Madonna was once kept, before visiting the viewpoint and strolling along the cliff path.
Alcobaca - a small town with a grand monastery
Alcobaca may seem like an ordinary provincial town. However, after seeing the grand abbey of 'Santa Maria de Alcobaca' and learning about the extraordinary love story of King Pedro and Ines de Castro, you will never forget these lands. I will share local legends and traditions, talk about the construction of the monastic complex, point out subtle architectural details, and explain why the abbey is considered a masterpiece of Cistercian Gothic art.
Batalha and the most beautiful monastery in Portugal
The Dominican monastery in late Gothic style and the city remember the grand battle for the Portuguese throne. Its history will not just impress you but also help you discover and better understand the character of the native Portuguese.
Fatima - the altar of the world
Even if you are not religious, Fatima is worth a visit. Portugal is often called the 'country of the three Fs', and this city is one of them. I will introduce you to the amazing fate of Fatima, closely linked to the history of modern Portugal.
Organizational details
- The tour is intensive. We will not have time for a full lunch because it takes 1.5-2 hours in Portugal. But we can have a snack in the towns after the tour.
- The tour will be conducted in Mercedes Sprinter vans for 15 people or Mercedes Vito for 8 people.
- It can be windy near the ocean - a jacket may come in handy.
- If you have a child with you and need a child seat, please let me know in advance.
- On some days, the return transfer from Fatima to Lisbon is done without a guide in a comfortable coach. The guide stays in Fatima but will make sure to accompany you to the bus. If this is important to you, please write to me, and I will provide information on whether the guide returns with you on a specific day or not.
- The tour will be conducted by me or another guide from our team.
