Heritage: Batalha, Alcobaça, Óbidos, Fátima and Nazaré 10H

Heritage: Batalha, Óbidos, Alcobaça, Fátima and Nazaré 10H - This ten hour private tour offers a blend of spirituality, history, natural beauty, and cultural richness. From the spiritual sanctuary of Fátima to the Gothic splendor of Batalha and Alcobaça, and the coastal allure of Nazaré to the medieval charm of Óbidos, each destination provides a unique glimpse into Portugal’s diverse and captivating heritage. 

Begin this journey visiting Fatima renowned worldwide for its Sanctuary, a significant pilgrimage site for Catholics. It commemorates the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in 1917. The Sanctuary includes the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Chapel of Apparitions, where pilgrims gather to pray and seek spiritual solace.

Then we will take you to Batalha Monastery (tickets not included; tickets can be purchased at the monument). Located in the town of Batalha in central Portugal, is a magnificent example of late Gothic architecture and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Monastery of Batalha was commissioned by King João I of Portugal in 1386 to commemorate the Portuguese victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota against the Castilian forces in 1385. The monastery exemplifies the Portuguese Gothic style, characterized by intricate stone carvings, ribbed vaults, and elaborate ornamentation. It also incorporates elements of Flamboyant Gothic architecture, especially notable in the Founder's Chapel.

One of the most exquisite parts of the monastery is the Founder's Chapel (Capela do Fundador), where King João I and his queen, Philippa of Lancaster, are buried. The chapel is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, a star-shaped vault, and finely carved tombs of the royal couple. Adjacent to the Founder’s Chapel are the Unfinished Chapels (Capelas Imperfeitas), a striking example of Manueline architecture. These chapels were intended to be grand royal mausoleums but were never completed due to financial constraints. The intricate stonework of these chapels is a testament to the skill of Portuguese craftsmen.

Today, the Monastery of Batalha attracts visitors from around the world who come to admire its architectural grandeur, explore its historical significance, and appreciate its cultural legacy.

Lunch Break: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of  the many delightful restaurants in the region, where you can savor traditional Portuguese cuisine (not included).

After lunch we will visit Alcobaça Monastery, officially known as the Monastery of Santa Maria de Alcobaça, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the town of Alcobaça. The Monastery of Alcobaça was founded in 1153 by the first Portuguese king, Afonso Henriques, and entrusted to the Order of Cistercians.

The monastery is an exemplary work of Gothic architecture in Portugal, characterized by its simplicity, harmony, and monumental scale. The church and the cloisters are notable for their austere yet elegant design, emphasizing spiritual contemplation and communal living.

Artistically, the monastery is renowned for its sculptural adornments, including the intricate tombs of King Pedro I and Inês de Castro. The tragic love story of Pedro and Inês, immortalized in Portuguese literature and art, adds a romantic and historical dimension to the monastery’s cultural legacy.

Today, the Monastery of Alcobaça is a popular tourist destination and pilgrimage site.

We will take you to visit the small and charming town of Nazaré, renowned for its stunning beach and towering waves, which attract surfers from around the world. Nazare is situated on the Atlantic coast of Portugal, approximately 120 kilometers north of Lisbon. The town is nestled between cliffs and overlooks a wide sandy beach that stretches along the shoreline. The picturesque village retains its traditional fishing heritage, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Praia do Norte in Nazare is particularly famous for its colossal waves, which can reach heights of over 30 meters (100 feet) under extreme conditions, specially in winter. These waves attract surfers, spectators, and media from around the world, especially during big wave surfing events.

The tour will end in Óbidos, a perfectly preserved medieval town surrounded by ancient walls. Its narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flowers, and the imposing castle create a fairy-tale atmosphere. Visitors can walk along the castle walls, sample the local cherry liqueur known as "ginjinha," and explore artisan shops selling handicrafts and traditional ceramics.

Whether marveling at architectural masterpieces, experiencing profound spiritual sites, or enjoying the scenic coastal views, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Portugal’s west coast treasures.