Óbidos
The medieval village of Óbidos is one of the best preserved in Portugal. Close enough to the capital and situated on a high point near the Atlantic coast, Óbidos had a strategic importance in the territory. Already occupied before the Romans arrived in the Iberian Peninsula, the village became more prosperous from the moment it was chosen by the royal family. Since King Denis offered it to his wife Elizabeth, in the 13th century, it belonged to the House of the Queens that, throughout the various dynasties, benefited and enriched it. It is one of the main reasons for finding so many churches in this small town.
Within the walls, stands the well-preserved castle and a labyrinth of streets and white houses that enchant anyone who walks there. Among Manueline porticoes, flowery windows and small squares, there are several reasons to visit, good examples of the religious and civil architecture of the golden ages of the village.
WILD LAGOON TRAIL — PART II (NORTHERN SIDE OF ÓBIDOS LAGOON)
Óbidos Lagoon forms the largest coastal lagoon system of the Portuguese coast with a total area of approximately 6.9km2 and an average depth of two meters. It is a unique place of beauty and forms a fragile ecosystem where several species find a privileged habitat. Numerous water and migratory birds can be observed here, but the importance of this pond lies mainly with bivalve molluscs because, in addition to food for the occupying species, is a source of income for the local inhabitants.
Not being an integrant part of the usual tourist itineraries, this route starts with the discovery of the most enclosed trails and the best place to observe the fauna of the lagoon. A good dose of adventure for those who like to observe nature and go unnoticed.
Distance — approx. 16km circular
Duration — approx. 6 hours
Level of difficulty — moderate
SPIRITUAL TRAIL
The origins of Óbidos are millennial, passing through the Lusitanian, Roman and Visigoth peoples. However, the Arabs built the Castle, their ex libris. Over the centuries, Óbidos Castle was used as the royal residence and dowry of several queens. Of course, alongside royalty is the clergy, reason why it is richly embellished with churches and centennial chapels.
Not being the usual tourist route of Óbidos, this itinerary reveals the religious heritage of the town, with the most outstanding example of the tiles of Santa Maria Church. Inside and outside the walls, one discovers "secret" paths — some that lead the outer wilderness, others that bring us back to finish this intriguing trail.
Distance — approx. 12km circular
Duration — approx. 5 hours
Level of difficulty — moderate
Prices:
— From €195 per person in a double room
— From €235* per person in a single room
*This value may be higher depending on the time of the year and the accommodation costs.
Includes:
— 2 nights bed and breakfast in hotel 4*
— 1 group dinner
— On-site guide
— Personal accident and liability insurance
Does not include:
— Transportation or transfers
— Food or other meals
Important to bring:
— Waterproof footwear (mountain boots or stiff sole tennis shoes)
— Waterproof windbreaker
— Water and snack
— Sunscreen
— Repellent
Limited number of participants — 2 minimum /10 maximum
