Portugal's Diverse Treasures
From exploring Nazaré's surfing paradise, charming medieval town of Óbidos, spectacular underground caves in the Central Region, to the unique Capela dos Ossos in Évora.
Nazaré
One of the main attractions in Nazaré is, of course, its stunning beaches.
Surfing is a big part of Nazare's culture, and the town hosts a number of surfing competitions every year.
It is famous for its massive waves that can reach up to 100 feet tall. We didn't witness those monstrous waves during our visit because they occur during the peak of winter, closest to December, when there are more severe sea storms that can generate larger swells, attracting daredevil surfers and curious spectators alike.
When we arrived in Nazaré, we were greeted by a strong wind that made us think twice about our plans for the day.
We decided to take a stroll along the cliffside and explore the stunning views that Nazaré had to offer. As we walked, we were struck by the natural beauty of the landscape.
Although we had originally been disappointed by the windy weather, we soon realised that this change of plans had been a blessing in disguise. We were able to enjoy the stunning scenery without the crowds that normally accompany a sunny day, and the wind gave the whole experience a wild and invigorating feel. Our walk along the cliffside was an unforgettable experience. We were reminded that sometimes the best adventures are the ones that happen when we're willing to change your plans and embrace the unexpected.
Portugal is famous for its seafood, and Nazare is no exception. You can enjoy fresh fish, octopus, clams, and shrimp, among other delicacies. So be sure to stop by one of the many seaside restaurants for a taste of authentic Portuguese flavour.
Whether you're a beach lover, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, you'll find plenty of reasons to visit Nazare and discover its unique character. Just be aware that if you want to witness the monstrous waves, you should plan your trip during the winter months.
Óbidos
Portugal's hidden gem! Tucked away in the hills, this small picturesque town, is completely enclosed by medieval walls. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a taste of Portugal's rich history and culture.
The main entrance to town us through the Porta da Vila, beneath which someone is usually displaying handmade lace or lovely floral wreath headdresses.
Beyond stretches the main street, Rua Direita, filled with interesting architectural and decorative details, but its shops are also worth a look. The best buys are ceramics, embroideries, wine and a bottle of ginja.
Óbidos' walls were built in the 14th century to protect Óbidos from invaders, and they still stand strong today.
Walking along the top of the walls is like taking a step back in time, with stunning views of the town's red-tiled roofs and cobbled streets.
Speaking of cobbled streets, Óbidos is home to some of the most charming streets you'll ever see. The narrow alleys are lined with colourful houses and quaint shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
Finally, no trip to Óbidos would be complete without trying the town's most famous drink, Ginjinha d'Óbidos, a cherry liqueur that's served in a chocolate cup. It's the perfect way to end a day of exploring this magical town.
Our trip to Óbidos was an unforgettable experience that exceeded our expectations. We were captivated by the town's medieval charm, the colourful houses, and the stunning views from the walls.
We highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and authentic Portuguese experience!
Grutas de Mira D'aire
A thrilling adventure in Portugal that will leave you in awe! These stunning limestone caves are a true wonder of nature.
The Mira de Aire Caves are actually Portugal’s biggest cave network. The whole cave network spans over 15km but on the tour, you’ll see roughly 600 meters of it. Even though it’s only a small section of this cave network it’s still astonishing and mind-blowing how they built everything inside to be so tourist-friendly.
As you enter the caves, you'll be greeted by a cool breeze and the sound of rushing water. The air is damp and refreshing, and you'll feel like you've entered a secret underground world. The caves are filled with stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.
One of the highlights of the Grutas de Mira D'aire is the "Cathedral," a massive chamber that's over 180 feet high.
Another fascinating feature of the caves is the underground river.
The river flows through the caves, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere. You'll be able to hear the sound of the water echoing through the caves, adding to the mystical ambiance.
The Grutas de Mira D'aire in Portugal are a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure. You'll be transported to a world of wonder and amazement as you explore the limestone caves and admire the natural formations.
Capela de Ossos
The Chapel of Bones in Évora, Portugal is a truly unique and fascinating place. First things first: what exactly is the Chapel of Bones? Well, it's exactly what it sounds like.
The chapel is located inside the Igreja de São Francisco, and it's decorated with bones. Yes, you read that right: the walls and pillars of the chapel are covered in human bones. And not just any bones, either - the bones were carefully arranged to create patterns and designs that are both creepy and extraordinary.
When you first enter the Chapel of Bones, you'll probably feel a shiver run down your spine. The walls are lined with skulls and femurs and tibias, arranged in intricate patterns that is a little bit creepy. The bones seem to go on forever, creating a surreal and haunting atmosphere that's hard to describe.
<Image>
During the 15th and 16th centuries, there were 42 monastic cemeteries in town which took up much-needed space. The Franciscan's solution was to move all the remains to one compact, consecrated site. This is the ghoulish result: a room lined with the bones and skulls of around 5,000 former monks.
But despite the initial shock of seeing so many bones in one place, the Chapel of Bones is actually a very contemplative space. Of course, the Chapel of Bones isn't for everyone. If you find the idea of being surrounded by bones unsettling, then you might want to give it a miss.
Évora itself is a beautiful city with a rich history and plenty of other attractions to explore. But if you're looking for something truly unique then make sure you visit the Chapel of Bones.
From stunning beaches to magnificent historical landmarks, Portugal has it all. As I wrap up this post, I can't help but marvel at the diverse beauty this country has to offer. I've only scratched the surface, but I promise to share more about our exciting adventure in Portugal in my next post. Stay tuned and join me as we discover the secrets of this captivating land!
