The highlight of this Lisbon shore trip is a visit to the pilgrimage site of Fatima. You visit the Sanctuary of Fatima and have the option to visit the Batalha Monastery. Then you enjoy a lunch stop in the seaside town of Nazare before visiting the charming medieval village of Obidos.
After meeting your guide you immediately depart for Fatima, which is host to one of the most important Christian sites in the world, with over 5 million visitors each year.
Upon arrival in Fatima you will visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima. This imposing modern basilica has a public square which is larger than St. Peters Square in Vatican City. You will have time to explore this pilgrimage site which was built to honor the events of 1917 when the Virgin Mary appeared six times to three children near the town. During a time when Europe was being ravaged by WWI, Our Lady of Fatima brought a message from God that promised peace on Earth if her requests for prayer, reparation and consecration were heard and obeyed.
If you are interested there is a chance to also visit the 14th century Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO world heritage site. The name means the Monastery of the Battle. This Dominican convent is also sometimes referred to as Our Mother of Victory. It is considered one of the most beautiful works of European and Portuguese architecture. This is an optional stop so entry tickets are not included and must be paid on the spot.
Next you continue to the fishing village of Nazare where you can enjoy lunch (meal not included) in a typical restaurant overlooking the sea.
After lunch there is a quick stop at the Nazare cliffs to appreciate the marvelous views over the Atlantic. Then you continue your drive along the Atlantic coast passing by picturesque villages of Foz do Arelho and Sao Martinho do Porto.
The last stop of the day will be at Obidos. This medieval village is surrounded by the walls of a castle, and is known for its picturesque cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses with beautiful flowerpots, Gothic architecture, whitewashed churches and wrought iron balconies.
While you are here you have an included sample of Ginja, which is a local liquor made from a sour cherry and served in a chocolate cup.
