About this experience
You will visit the largest Eastern garden in Europe, where Asian and African motifs are intricately intertwined with elements of modern art. You will learn about its history and the creator's intentions. Taste the best wines of the region at the ancient family winery. You will also visit the medieval fortress city of Obidos, learn legends from its mysterious past, and try the most delicious ginja in the city - a traditional cherry liqueur.
What to Expect
Largest Eastern Garden in Europe
Our first stop will be Buddha's Paradise Garden - a very unexpected creation for Portugal, where Eastern motifs coexist with African ones, intertwining with elements of modern art. The 'Garden of Peace' occupies 40 hectares of the Loridos estate, owned by the Bacalhoa wine-making conglomerate - one of the largest wine producers in the country. During the stroll, you will see over 100 giant Buddha statues, huge images of various animals, traditional Japanese garden decorations, and a copy of the Terracotta Army with 700 life-size soldiers and horses. Along the way, you will also admire stone sculptures from Africa and contemporary art pieces, while I will introduce you to the history of the Paradise Garden, the idea of its creator - Portuguese millionaire Jose Berardo - and help you understand the symbolism of some of the figures.
Ancient Family Winery
After the park tour, you will visit a small family winery with a long history. You will see 19th-century vineyards and gardens, learn about the climate peculiarities of this region and the winemaking traditions passed down from generation to generation. In the ancient distillery, you will explore the intricacies of producing Portuguese brandy aguardente, visit one of the largest lagars (wine presses) on the Iberian Peninsula with old presses, and explore the wine cellars. And of course, you will taste 7 wines accompanied by sheep-goat cheese and fragrant traditional pastries.
History and Legends of Obidos
After lunch, you will head to the ancient fortress city of Obidos. Passing through the main city gates, you will find yourself in the distant Middle Ages: walking through well-preserved ancient streets and seeing the majestic 12th-century castle, where Portuguese monarchs spent their honeymoons. The city holds many secrets, legends, and tales, which I will share with you during the walk. In Obidos, you will also enjoy another tasting - Portuguese ginja cherry liqueur. This famous drink is sold almost on every corner here, but I will show you a place where you can try the most delicious ginja!
Organizational Details
The tour is conducted in a comfortable minivan.
Transport costs are already included in the price.
Tickets, tastings, and lunch are paid separately.
- Buddha Eden Garden Park - €5 per person.
- Tasting of 2 white wines, 1 rosé wine, 3 red wines, and 1 liqueur wine, traditional cheese, and local pastries - €22 per person (weekdays), €42 per person (weekends and holidays).
- Lunch at a restaurant with national cuisine (€7-15 per person).
