Trudi’s guidebook to Praia D'el Rey on the Silver Coast in Portugal
Food scene
The view on the ocean is really rewarding. If to it you add the friendliness of the Xakra's staff and a deep dive into its fresh Portuguese cuisine, then you know the secret for a successful evening! We can recommend trying the crabs on grated bread, octopus in bread crumbs, and burger.
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Xakra Beach Bar
The view on the ocean is really rewarding. If to it you add the friendliness of the Xakra's staff and a deep dive into its fresh Portuguese cuisine, then you know the secret for a successful evening! We can recommend trying the crabs on grated bread, octopus in bread crumbs, and burger.
AMAZING FOOD😍 Excellent high quality food! Best seafood we had in Portugal! Lovely attentive waiter and great atmosphere!
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Taberna do Ganhão
1 Largo dos Amigos do BalealAMAZING FOOD😍 Excellent high quality food! Best seafood we had in Portugal! Lovely attentive waiter and great atmosphere!
Located at Serra D'El Rey, and inspired by the traditional French brasseries and Portuguese breweries of the beginning of the 20th century, Tribeca is an elegantly relaxed, welcoming space where the decor, the music and the food go hand in hand to create the most delightful atmosphere to enjoy with your friends, even after the meal.
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Restaurante Tribeca
5 Av. SerranaLocated at Serra D'El Rey, and inspired by the traditional French brasseries and Portuguese breweries of the beginning of the 20th century, Tribeca is an elegantly relaxed, welcoming space where the decor, the music and the food go hand in hand to create the most delightful atmosphere to enjoy with your friends, even after the meal.
Best surfing areas
Stretching for more than 850km, the Portuguese coast is a gigantic surfing beach. No other coastal strip in the world can offer such a great number of spots in such a short distance, so in Portugal you can always rely on the waves.
Great beaches for surfing and beach watching from the bars and restaurants.
Also vibrant night life scene
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Baleal
Great beaches for surfing and beach watching from the bars and restaurants.
Also vibrant night life scene
Located to the north of the imposing Nazaré Promontory [Promontório da Nazaré], better known as “Sítio”, Praia do Norte is not a supervised beach and its feel is a little wild, with dunes that preserve the original vegetation.
The rough sea is dangerous for swimming but is much appreciated by surfers who find spectacular waves here. One such wave, 30m high, was ridden by the Hawaiian Garrett McNamara, in November 2011, and was nominated “Biggest wave” in 2011 by the Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards.
The formation of such big waves here is explained by the location of the Nazaré canyon, the biggest underwater ravine in Europe, 200km long and a depth that can reach 5,000m. Its headwall, less than 1km off the coast, affects the characteristics of the swell, as it presents itself from the west, creating the giant waves.
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Nazaré
20 R. do HorizonteLocated to the north of the imposing Nazaré Promontory [Promontório da Nazaré], better known as “Sítio”, Praia do Norte is not a supervised beach and its feel is a little wild, with dunes that preserve the original vegetation.
The rough sea is dangerous for swimming but is much appreciated by surfers who find spectacular waves here. One such wave, 30m high, was ridden by the Hawaiian Garrett McNamara, in November 2011, and was nominated “Biggest wave” in 2011 by the Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Awards.
The formation of such big waves here is explained by the location of the Nazaré canyon, the biggest underwater ravine in Europe, 200km long and a depth that can reach 5,000m. Its headwall, less than 1km off the coast, affects the characteristics of the swell, as it presents itself from the west, creating the giant waves.
City/town information
Peniche and the sea are inseparable. It is one of the largest traditional fishing ports in Portugal and a major Atlantic hub for maritime-tourist activities.
Before heading to the beach, your visit to Peniche must include a walk through the historic centre. Besides the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios Sanctuary, the São Pedro and Misericórdia Churches, the Peniche Fort is a must-see. It was built in the 16th/17th centuries to defend the coast, together with the Fort on Consolação beach and the fort on the Island of Berlengas. It played a major role at various points in Portuguese history but its most recent purpose was to serve as a political prison under the Estado Novo regime, holding some of the most important public personalities in the fight against Fascism. You will learn all about it once inside, since it is currently the Peniche City Museum.
In addition to fishing, which has always been one of the sources of income of its people, Peniche is also known for the art of bobbin lacework, perfected by the women while the men were out at sea.
The sea is still one of the main points of interest and development, and the beaches at Peniche are much appreciated. While Consolação and Baleal bays provide good shelter for a family day out, the waves on this west coast, such as the Supertubos (tubular Supertube waves) off Medão Grande Beach, are much sought after by surfers and bodyboarders from across the world. It was elected one of “Portugal’s 7 Wonders” in a national tournament. Together with Lagido Beach, it is the setting for the major world surf championship, Rip Curl Pro Portugal, an event that is part of the World Surf League Tour.
The Nature Reserve on the Island of Berlengas is a boat ride away. Its translucent waters are ideal for divers, who will find here a natural sanctuary for sea flora and fauna. The choppy sea and the seclusion of the Island have also prompted many mysterious stories about fishermen and sunken vessels off this coast.
It’s only natural that the sea dominates the local cuisine, so you mustn’t leave Peniche without tasting the bouillabaisse, the seafood rice or the charcoal-grilled sardines, always accompanied by the Western region’s wines. For dessert, we recommend the almond cakes, whether an “Amigo de Peniche” or the biscuits called “Esses”.
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Peniche
Peniche and the sea are inseparable. It is one of the largest traditional fishing ports in Portugal and a major Atlantic hub for maritime-tourist activities.
Before heading to the beach, your visit to Peniche must include a walk through the historic centre. Besides the Nossa Senhora dos Remédios Sanctuary, the São Pedro and Misericórdia Churches, the Peniche Fort is a must-see. It was built in the 16th/17th centuries to defend the coast, together with the Fort on Consolação beach and the fort on the Island of Berlengas. It played a major role at various points in Portuguese history but its most recent purpose was to serve as a political prison under the Estado Novo regime, holding some of the most important public personalities in the fight against Fascism. You will learn all about it once inside, since it is currently the Peniche City Museum.
In addition to fishing, which has always been one of the sources of income of its people, Peniche is also known for the art of bobbin lacework, perfected by the women while the men were out at sea.
The sea is still one of the main points of interest and development, and the beaches at Peniche are much appreciated. While Consolação and Baleal bays provide good shelter for a family day out, the waves on this west coast, such as the Supertubos (tubular Supertube waves) off Medão Grande Beach, are much sought after by surfers and bodyboarders from across the world. It was elected one of “Portugal’s 7 Wonders” in a national tournament. Together with Lagido Beach, it is the setting for the major world surf championship, Rip Curl Pro Portugal, an event that is part of the World Surf League Tour.
The Nature Reserve on the Island of Berlengas is a boat ride away. Its translucent waters are ideal for divers, who will find here a natural sanctuary for sea flora and fauna. The choppy sea and the seclusion of the Island have also prompted many mysterious stories about fishermen and sunken vessels off this coast.
It’s only natural that the sea dominates the local cuisine, so you mustn’t leave Peniche without tasting the bouillabaisse, the seafood rice or the charcoal-grilled sardines, always accompanied by the Western region’s wines. For dessert, we recommend the almond cakes, whether an “Amigo de Peniche” or the biscuits called “Esses”.
The mediaeval town of Óbidos is one of the most picturesque and well preserved in Portugal.
Quite close to the capital and located on high ground near the Atlantic coast, Óbidos has had a strategic importance in the territory. It had already been settled prior to the Romans’ arrival in the Iberian Peninsula, and the town prospered after being chosen by the royal family. King Dinis offered it to his wife, Queen Isabel, in the 13th century, and it became part of Casa das Rainhas (Queens’ Estate), who improved and enriched it throughout the various dynasties. This is one of the main reasons for the high concentration of churches in this small place.
You will find a well preserved castle within the walls, and a maze of streets and white houses that are a delight to stroll amongst. Along with the Manueline porticoes, the colourful window boxes and the small squares, many fine examples of religious and civil architecture from the town’s golden days provide a host of reasons for making a visit.
Santa Maria Main Church, the Misericórdia Church, the Church of São Pedro, the Pillory and, beyond the walls, the Aqueduct and the round-shaped Senhor Jesus da Pedra Sanctuary, are just some of the landmarks that warrant an attentive visit. So does the Óbidos City Museum, where you will find the works of Josefa de Óbidos, an influential 17th century painter and a woman with an irreverent artistic stance for her time. Her paintings reflect her studies with the great masters of the time, such as the Spanish Zurbarán and Francisco de Herrera, and the Portuguese André Reinoso and Baltazar Gomes Figueira, her father.
Any time is good to visit Óbidos. It is an inspiring suggestion for a romantic or simply a peaceful weekend because of the love stories that have been enacted there and for its mediaeval setting; and if you include an overnight stay in the castle, then you’ll attain perfection.
The local cuisine features bouillabaisse made with fish from the Óbidos Lagoon, which will taste even better if accompanied by the wines of the region of Oeste. Another attraction is the famous Ginjinha de Óbidos (sour cherry brandy), which can be enjoyed in various places, preferably drunk from a small chocolate cup.
An all-year-round programme of events makes Óbidos a small but lively town. The most popular are the International Chocolate Festival, the Mediaeval Market and Christmas, when the town is filled with seasonal decorations. Also of note are the Harpsichord and Baroque Classical Music Seasons and the Opera Festival, which lend a special feel to Óbidos, with open-air concerts on warm Summer evenings.
Not far away, is the long stretch of sand of the El Rey Beach, where golfers can revel in a golf course with a view over the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond Caldas da Rainha, whose history is also linked to Casa das Rainhas, you will find the beach of Foz do Arelho, which links the Óbidos Lagoon to the sea. This is a wonderful spot for a seafood or fresh fish lunch or for a late afternoon by the sea watching the sunset.
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Óbidos Municipality
The mediaeval town of Óbidos is one of the most picturesque and well preserved in Portugal.
Quite close to the capital and located on high ground near the Atlantic coast, Óbidos has had a strategic importance in the territory. It had already been settled prior to the Romans’ arrival in the Iberian Peninsula, and the town prospered after being chosen by the royal family. King Dinis offered it to his wife, Queen Isabel, in the 13th century, and it became part of Casa das Rainhas (Queens’ Estate), who improved and enriched it throughout the various dynasties. This is one of the main reasons for the high concentration of churches in this small place.
You will find a well preserved castle within the walls, and a maze of streets and white houses that are a delight to stroll amongst. Along with the Manueline porticoes, the colourful window boxes and the small squares, many fine examples of religious and civil architecture from the town’s golden days provide a host of reasons for making a visit.
Santa Maria Main Church, the Misericórdia Church, the Church of São Pedro, the Pillory and, beyond the walls, the Aqueduct and the round-shaped Senhor Jesus da Pedra Sanctuary, are just some of the landmarks that warrant an attentive visit. So does the Óbidos City Museum, where you will find the works of Josefa de Óbidos, an influential 17th century painter and a woman with an irreverent artistic stance for her time. Her paintings reflect her studies with the great masters of the time, such as the Spanish Zurbarán and Francisco de Herrera, and the Portuguese André Reinoso and Baltazar Gomes Figueira, her father.
Any time is good to visit Óbidos. It is an inspiring suggestion for a romantic or simply a peaceful weekend because of the love stories that have been enacted there and for its mediaeval setting; and if you include an overnight stay in the castle, then you’ll attain perfection.
The local cuisine features bouillabaisse made with fish from the Óbidos Lagoon, which will taste even better if accompanied by the wines of the region of Oeste. Another attraction is the famous Ginjinha de Óbidos (sour cherry brandy), which can be enjoyed in various places, preferably drunk from a small chocolate cup.
An all-year-round programme of events makes Óbidos a small but lively town. The most popular are the International Chocolate Festival, the Mediaeval Market and Christmas, when the town is filled with seasonal decorations. Also of note are the Harpsichord and Baroque Classical Music Seasons and the Opera Festival, which lend a special feel to Óbidos, with open-air concerts on warm Summer evenings.
Not far away, is the long stretch of sand of the El Rey Beach, where golfers can revel in a golf course with a view over the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond Caldas da Rainha, whose history is also linked to Casa das Rainhas, you will find the beach of Foz do Arelho, which links the Óbidos Lagoon to the sea. This is a wonderful spot for a seafood or fresh fish lunch or for a late afternoon by the sea watching the sunset.
The town owes its name to the thermal spring that was much appreciated by Queen Dona Leonor, wife of the 15th century King Dom JoãoII, who had the opportunity to confirm the curative properties of these waters when they cured her of a wound that for a long time had not healed, although she had tried various treatments.
As the waters were much in demand at the time by the local people, who bathed in them to cure their ailments, the Queen ordered a hospital to be built so that they could treat themselves in some comfort. Around the hospital a village was formed, which came to be known as "Caldas da Rainha" (The Queen`s Hot Springs).
The town continued to grow, reaching its heyday in the late 19th and early 20th century, at a time when it was fashionable to take a holiday in a spa resort, and Caldas da Rainha was one of the places chosen by the nobility and aristocracy.
During the Second World War, too, the town was chosen as a place of refuge by many foreigners fleeing from persecution by the Nazis.
Caldas was the birthplace of important figures in Portuguese culture, notably the painter José Malhoa (C.19), whose work can be admired in the museum named after him in the Thermal Park (Dom Carlos I garden); also born here was Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro, the 19th century caricaturist, who founded the pottery factories of Caldas da Rainha where the popular Caldas pottery began to be manufactured, of which the best known pieces are those containing characteristics humour.
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Caldas da Rainha
The town owes its name to the thermal spring that was much appreciated by Queen Dona Leonor, wife of the 15th century King Dom JoãoII, who had the opportunity to confirm the curative properties of these waters when they cured her of a wound that for a long time had not healed, although she had tried various treatments.
As the waters were much in demand at the time by the local people, who bathed in them to cure their ailments, the Queen ordered a hospital to be built so that they could treat themselves in some comfort. Around the hospital a village was formed, which came to be known as "Caldas da Rainha" (The Queen`s Hot Springs).
The town continued to grow, reaching its heyday in the late 19th and early 20th century, at a time when it was fashionable to take a holiday in a spa resort, and Caldas da Rainha was one of the places chosen by the nobility and aristocracy.
During the Second World War, too, the town was chosen as a place of refuge by many foreigners fleeing from persecution by the Nazis.
Caldas was the birthplace of important figures in Portuguese culture, notably the painter José Malhoa (C.19), whose work can be admired in the museum named after him in the Thermal Park (Dom Carlos I garden); also born here was Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro, the 19th century caricaturist, who founded the pottery factories of Caldas da Rainha where the popular Caldas pottery began to be manufactured, of which the best known pieces are those containing characteristics humour.
On the banks of the river Mondego, Coimbra is famous for its University, the oldest in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe, which over time has shaped its image to become "the city of students".
We begin this visit, precisely at the university founded in the XIIIth Century and which UNESCO has placed on its list of World Heritage sites, in a classification that also includes Rua da Sofia and the upper part of the city. It's well worth climbing its tower, which houses the bells that signal the start and end of classes, in order to appreciate the superb 360º view of Coimbra. But there is much to see at ground level, too: the Pátio das Escolas courtyard, the Sala dos Capelos hall where the most important ceremonies are held, the Chapel of São Miguel with an imposing Baroque organ and the Joanine Library, which has more than 300,000 works dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries arranged in beautiful gilt-covered bookcases. The buildings occupy the place of the Palace where the first Kings of Portugal lived, when they made the city the capital of the kingdom.
There are several monuments from those times that display the splendour of Romanesque art. In the shopping area and area of historic cafés in the City Centre, visitors really must see the Monastery of Santa Cruz, which houses the tomb of the first King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, and on the other bank, the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha, recovered and rescued from the waters of the river that invaded it over the centuries. The Sé Velha (Old Cathedral), too, on whose steps the monumental serenade takes place in which students dressed in black capes sing the Coimbra Fado with heartfelt emotion. This is one of the events in the Queima das Fitas ritual (Burning of the Ribbons) every May, in which newly graduated students celebrate the completion of their course, at a very colourful party. This liveliness is felt throughout the year, however, in the many pubs, restaurants and “Repúblicas” (student residences), examples of community life.
But there is much more to see. The Machado de Castro National Museum contains the Roman Cryptoporticus among a collection of great value that introduces you to the history of the city. There are many gardens not to be missed, too, such as those at Choupal, those at Quinta das Lágrimas, the setting for the story of D. Pedro and Inês de Castro, and the Botanical Gardens. Children (of all ages) will love Portugal dos Pequenitos (Portugal for the Little Ones), a park that reproduces the main Portuguese monuments on a miniature scale.
Coimbra is not only about tradition; it also has modern buildings that are worth knowing, such as the University’s Campus II, the Pedro and Ines Footbridge, the Centro de Portugal Pavilion in the Parque Verde do Mondego. And to get a different perspective of the whole city we recommend a boat trip on the River Mondego.
According to a fado sung by the students, “Coimbra has more charm in the hour of parting”, but maybe it will not be necessary to wait for that to find out...
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Coimbra
On the banks of the river Mondego, Coimbra is famous for its University, the oldest in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe, which over time has shaped its image to become "the city of students".
We begin this visit, precisely at the university founded in the XIIIth Century and which UNESCO has placed on its list of World Heritage sites, in a classification that also includes Rua da Sofia and the upper part of the city. It's well worth climbing its tower, which houses the bells that signal the start and end of classes, in order to appreciate the superb 360º view of Coimbra. But there is much to see at ground level, too: the Pátio das Escolas courtyard, the Sala dos Capelos hall where the most important ceremonies are held, the Chapel of São Miguel with an imposing Baroque organ and the Joanine Library, which has more than 300,000 works dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries arranged in beautiful gilt-covered bookcases. The buildings occupy the place of the Palace where the first Kings of Portugal lived, when they made the city the capital of the kingdom.
There are several monuments from those times that display the splendour of Romanesque art. In the shopping area and area of historic cafés in the City Centre, visitors really must see the Monastery of Santa Cruz, which houses the tomb of the first King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, and on the other bank, the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha, recovered and rescued from the waters of the river that invaded it over the centuries. The Sé Velha (Old Cathedral), too, on whose steps the monumental serenade takes place in which students dressed in black capes sing the Coimbra Fado with heartfelt emotion. This is one of the events in the Queima das Fitas ritual (Burning of the Ribbons) every May, in which newly graduated students celebrate the completion of their course, at a very colourful party. This liveliness is felt throughout the year, however, in the many pubs, restaurants and “Repúblicas” (student residences), examples of community life.
But there is much more to see. The Machado de Castro National Museum contains the Roman Cryptoporticus among a collection of great value that introduces you to the history of the city. There are many gardens not to be missed, too, such as those at Choupal, those at Quinta das Lágrimas, the setting for the story of D. Pedro and Inês de Castro, and the Botanical Gardens. Children (of all ages) will love Portugal dos Pequenitos (Portugal for the Little Ones), a park that reproduces the main Portuguese monuments on a miniature scale.
Coimbra is not only about tradition; it also has modern buildings that are worth knowing, such as the University’s Campus II, the Pedro and Ines Footbridge, the Centro de Portugal Pavilion in the Parque Verde do Mondego. And to get a different perspective of the whole city we recommend a boat trip on the River Mondego.
According to a fado sung by the students, “Coimbra has more charm in the hour of parting”, but maybe it will not be necessary to wait for that to find out...
Golf courses
Praia D’El Rey is arguably one of the most stunning golf courses in Europe. Set among extensive pine forests and undulating dunes, with spectacular views over the Atlantic and the Berlengas Islands beyond.
The 18-hole golf course was designed by the renowned American golf architect Cabell B.Robinson and was inaugurated on 14th June 1997. Deep bunkers, sloping greens and sandy dunes contrast sharply with the lush fairways, making it the complete golfing challenge.
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Praia D'EL Rey Golf Beach Resort
30 Av. Dom Pedro PrimeiroPraia D’El Rey is arguably one of the most stunning golf courses in Europe. Set among extensive pine forests and undulating dunes, with spectacular views over the Atlantic and the Berlengas Islands beyond.
The 18-hole golf course was designed by the renowned American golf architect Cabell B.Robinson and was inaugurated on 14th June 1997. Deep bunkers, sloping greens and sandy dunes contrast sharply with the lush fairways, making it the complete golfing challenge.
The varied landscape and natural terrain was maintained undisturbed as possible to create an unique and world class 18-hole seaside links golf course alongside the silver coast. Rolling sand dunes interspersed with coastal vegetation, while the pine groves overlook the ocean from above. This privileged and exclusive location will mesmerise and challenge you to tame the forces of nature and perfect your game.
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West Cliffs Golf Course
4 Estrada do Rio CortiçoThe varied landscape and natural terrain was maintained undisturbed as possible to create an unique and world class 18-hole seaside links golf course alongside the silver coast. Rolling sand dunes interspersed with coastal vegetation, while the pine groves overlook the ocean from above. This privileged and exclusive location will mesmerise and challenge you to tame the forces of nature and perfect your game.
The golf course at the Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort has received its own "real" treatment of world golf legend Severiano Ballesteros. Applying his art in the design of golf courses, the renowned golfer has created a truly exceptional course here, honoring the high quality standards of the resort.
Designed to integrate subtly with the natural surroundings, taking advantage of the undulating terrain, this 6,400 meter course attracts golfers of all levels.
Royal Obidos Golf Course
The golf course at the Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort has received its own "real" treatment of world golf legend Severiano Ballesteros. Applying his art in the design of golf courses, the renowned golfer has created a truly exceptional course here, honoring the high quality standards of the resort.
Designed to integrate subtly with the natural surroundings, taking advantage of the undulating terrain, this 6,400 meter course attracts golfers of all levels.
The Guardian Bom Sucesso Golf was designed by Donald Steel, one of the most prestigious golf architects in the world. Located in an area of natural and singular beauty, in Óbidos, and just an hour from Lisbon, the fantastic 18-hole championship golf course extends along the BOM SUCESSO RESORT, on a rugged slope and surrounded by the Óbidos Lagoon, offering fantastic and unique views of the lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean.
Bom Sucesso
The Guardian Bom Sucesso Golf was designed by Donald Steel, one of the most prestigious golf architects in the world. Located in an area of natural and singular beauty, in Óbidos, and just an hour from Lisbon, the fantastic 18-hole championship golf course extends along the BOM SUCESSO RESORT, on a rugged slope and surrounded by the Óbidos Lagoon, offering fantastic and unique views of the lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean.
Sightseeing
The Sanctuary of Fátima annually welcomes hundred of thousands of pilgrims and tourists. Many come to participate in the celebrations that commemorate the apparitions of Our Lady to the three witness of Fátima.
In the Fátima calendar, the dates May 13th (the first apparition) and October 13th mean a rise in the numbers visiting the Sanctuary - built on the site of the first apparition - and the places where the three children lived in Aljustrel, a village located around two kilometres away.
In Aljustrel, there is a religious route tracing the spots where Lúcia de Jesus, aged 10, and cousins Francisco and Jacinta Marto, aged nine and seven respectively, declared they saw the Angel of Our Lady of Fátima.
Between April and October 1916, the three children bore witness that they saw the Angel on three occasions with them being invited to join in prayer and penitence.
In May 1917, the children were tending a small flock of sheep in Cova da Iria, within the parish of Fátima, in the council of Vila Nova de Ourém. Around mid-day, after saying the rosary as was their custom, they set about building a small construction out of loose stones on the spot where there now is the Basilica.
Suddenly, they saw a brilliant light and above a small holm-oak tree (where the Chapel of the Apparitions now is) appeared a «Lady more brilliant than the Sun». The Lady told the three shepherds that much prayer was required and invited them to return to Cova da Iria at the same time on the 13th of each of the five following months.
The children did just that and on the 13th of June, July, September and October, the Lady again appeared before them and talked to them.
On 19th August, there was an apparition at Valinhos, some 500 metres from Aljustrel, as, on that 13th, the children had been taken by the Council Administrator to Vila Nova de Ourém.
For the final apparition, on 13th October, around 70,000 people were in attendance, the Lady told them she was the «Lady of the Rosary» and that they were to build a chapel there in Her honour.
After the apparition, all those observed the miracle, promised to the three children in July and September: the sun, resembling a silver disc, could be looked upon without difficulty. It then began rotating, taking the form of a wheel of fire, seeming to disappear into the earth.
Later, in Spain, Lúcia, who joined the order of Saint Dorothy, experienced a further three visions of Our Lady (10th December 1925, 15th February 1926 and during the night of 13th to 14th June 1929).
The vision called for the five first Saturdays to be devoted to the conversion of Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
This final request was part of the «Three Secrets of Fátima» - a set of revelations made to Lúcia by Our Lady. Lúcia later wrote to Pope Pius XIIth to inform him of what had been revealed to her.
On 13th October 1930, the Bishop of Leiria gave the seal of church approval to the apparitions, officially authorising worship of Our Lady of Fátima, declaring it «Divine Providence».
13th May 2000, Pope John Paul II visited Fátima to beatify the witnesses Francisco and Jacinta Marto.
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Fátima
The Sanctuary of Fátima annually welcomes hundred of thousands of pilgrims and tourists. Many come to participate in the celebrations that commemorate the apparitions of Our Lady to the three witness of Fátima.
In the Fátima calendar, the dates May 13th (the first apparition) and October 13th mean a rise in the numbers visiting the Sanctuary - built on the site of the first apparition - and the places where the three children lived in Aljustrel, a village located around two kilometres away.
In Aljustrel, there is a religious route tracing the spots where Lúcia de Jesus, aged 10, and cousins Francisco and Jacinta Marto, aged nine and seven respectively, declared they saw the Angel of Our Lady of Fátima.
Between April and October 1916, the three children bore witness that they saw the Angel on three occasions with them being invited to join in prayer and penitence.
In May 1917, the children were tending a small flock of sheep in Cova da Iria, within the parish of Fátima, in the council of Vila Nova de Ourém. Around mid-day, after saying the rosary as was their custom, they set about building a small construction out of loose stones on the spot where there now is the Basilica.
Suddenly, they saw a brilliant light and above a small holm-oak tree (where the Chapel of the Apparitions now is) appeared a «Lady more brilliant than the Sun». The Lady told the three shepherds that much prayer was required and invited them to return to Cova da Iria at the same time on the 13th of each of the five following months.
The children did just that and on the 13th of June, July, September and October, the Lady again appeared before them and talked to them.
On 19th August, there was an apparition at Valinhos, some 500 metres from Aljustrel, as, on that 13th, the children had been taken by the Council Administrator to Vila Nova de Ourém.
For the final apparition, on 13th October, around 70,000 people were in attendance, the Lady told them she was the «Lady of the Rosary» and that they were to build a chapel there in Her honour.
After the apparition, all those observed the miracle, promised to the three children in July and September: the sun, resembling a silver disc, could be looked upon without difficulty. It then began rotating, taking the form of a wheel of fire, seeming to disappear into the earth.
Later, in Spain, Lúcia, who joined the order of Saint Dorothy, experienced a further three visions of Our Lady (10th December 1925, 15th February 1926 and during the night of 13th to 14th June 1929).
The vision called for the five first Saturdays to be devoted to the conversion of Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
This final request was part of the «Three Secrets of Fátima» - a set of revelations made to Lúcia by Our Lady. Lúcia later wrote to Pope Pius XIIth to inform him of what had been revealed to her.
On 13th October 1930, the Bishop of Leiria gave the seal of church approval to the apparitions, officially authorising worship of Our Lady of Fátima, declaring it «Divine Providence».
13th May 2000, Pope John Paul II visited Fátima to beatify the witnesses Francisco and Jacinta Marto.
A beautiful town at the foot of the mountain range of the same name, its unique characteristics have led UNESCO to classify it as a World heritage site. It was even necessary to create a special category for the purpose - that of "cultural landscape" - taking into account its natural riches as well as the historic buildings in the town and mountains. Endowed with luxuriant vegetation, the mountains are part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
From early times Sintra has been the place of choice for the settlement of various peoples who have passed through the Iberian Peninsula and left traces of their presence, which are now displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Odrinhas, in the outskirts of the town.
In the 12th century, Dom Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal, captured the Moorish Castle, and his successors later built their holiday residence. Their physiognomy is marked by the two enormous conical chimneys built in the Middle Ages.
Much appreciated by kings and nobles as a country resort, and praised by writers and poets like (inevitably) Lord Byron who called it "glorious Eden", Sintra has a wealth of cottages and manor houses, some of which now provide accommodation in the form of country-house tourism.
The palaces, too, are outstanding, such as the Pena Palace, built in the Romantic period on one of the mountain peaks, and the 18th century Palace of Seteais, now converted into an elegant hotel, and the Palace of Monserrate, famous for its beautiful gardens with their exotic species that are unique in the country.
Sintra's confectionery deserves a special mention, particularly the travesseiros (puff pastes stuffed with a sweet eggy mixture) and the famous cheese-cakes, which according to ancient documents were already being made in the 12th century, and were part of the rent payments.
Near Sintra are the beaches (das Maças, Praia Grande, Praia da Adraga), Cabo da Roca (the westernmost point of mainland Europe), Colares (after which a demarcated wine-growing region is named), and the picturesque village of Azenhas do Mar, inset in a cliff.
1253 il-persuni tal-post jissuġġerixxu
Sintra
A beautiful town at the foot of the mountain range of the same name, its unique characteristics have led UNESCO to classify it as a World heritage site. It was even necessary to create a special category for the purpose - that of "cultural landscape" - taking into account its natural riches as well as the historic buildings in the town and mountains. Endowed with luxuriant vegetation, the mountains are part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
From early times Sintra has been the place of choice for the settlement of various peoples who have passed through the Iberian Peninsula and left traces of their presence, which are now displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Odrinhas, in the outskirts of the town.
In the 12th century, Dom Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal, captured the Moorish Castle, and his successors later built their holiday residence. Their physiognomy is marked by the two enormous conical chimneys built in the Middle Ages.
Much appreciated by kings and nobles as a country resort, and praised by writers and poets like (inevitably) Lord Byron who called it "glorious Eden", Sintra has a wealth of cottages and manor houses, some of which now provide accommodation in the form of country-house tourism.
The palaces, too, are outstanding, such as the Pena Palace, built in the Romantic period on one of the mountain peaks, and the 18th century Palace of Seteais, now converted into an elegant hotel, and the Palace of Monserrate, famous for its beautiful gardens with their exotic species that are unique in the country.
Sintra's confectionery deserves a special mention, particularly the travesseiros (puff pastes stuffed with a sweet eggy mixture) and the famous cheese-cakes, which according to ancient documents were already being made in the 12th century, and were part of the rent payments.
Near Sintra are the beaches (das Maças, Praia Grande, Praia da Adraga), Cabo da Roca (the westernmost point of mainland Europe), Colares (after which a demarcated wine-growing region is named), and the picturesque village of Azenhas do Mar, inset in a cliff.
Things to do
This lagoon is just stunning. There is beautiful beach all around and the water itself is so vast, so varied, so beautiful and so natural. At one point you could be in the middle of the lagoon "walking on water" on about 5 inches and then drop right down into a deep pool of luscious turquoise water. It's easy to work out the routes quite quickly, as you can either see the colour change in the water, or watch other bathers. The funniest thing is watching the locals fishing for clams. It's all bottoms up in the air as the scoop under the water.
There are fish of many shapes and sizes, little crabs etc to entertain you in this amazingly clear water, and the nicest thing - NO RUBBISH anywhere, despite the bin being right by the steps away from the water. It's just awesome.
103 il-persuni tal-post jissuġġerixxu
Lagoa de Obidos
This lagoon is just stunning. There is beautiful beach all around and the water itself is so vast, so varied, so beautiful and so natural. At one point you could be in the middle of the lagoon "walking on water" on about 5 inches and then drop right down into a deep pool of luscious turquoise water. It's easy to work out the routes quite quickly, as you can either see the colour change in the water, or watch other bathers. The funniest thing is watching the locals fishing for clams. It's all bottoms up in the air as the scoop under the water.
There are fish of many shapes and sizes, little crabs etc to entertain you in this amazingly clear water, and the nicest thing - NO RUBBISH anywhere, despite the bin being right by the steps away from the water. It's just awesome.
LOADS OF FUN, HIDDEN GEM!!!
Helpful, friendly staff. Great, technical track with lots of elevation changes. Loved it, did two 15min sessions, first go, learning track, got a 52.6 best. Second 15mins got a 51.206 and every other lap in the 51’s. Considering I’m around 100kg, well pleased with that!!!😁 If…
16 il-persuni tal-post jissuġġerixxu
DinoKart - Kartódomo da Lourinhã
247 Estrada NacionalLOADS OF FUN, HIDDEN GEM!!!
Helpful, friendly staff. Great, technical track with lots of elevation changes. Loved it, did two 15min sessions, first go, learning track, got a 52.6 best. Second 15mins got a 51.206 and every other lap in the 51’s. Considering I’m around 100kg, well pleased with that!!!😁 If…
Neighbourhoods
Set along the pristine shores of Portugal’s Silver Coast, the resort offers a host of spectacular villas, holiday residences and of course, the luxury accommodation of the 5-star Marriott Hotel.
40 il-persuni tal-post jissuġġerixxu
Praia D'el Rey
Set along the pristine shores of Portugal’s Silver Coast, the resort offers a host of spectacular villas, holiday residences and of course, the luxury accommodation of the 5-star Marriott Hotel.