Exploring the Historic Charms of Tomar, Portugal

Adieu, Tomar!

As our 11-day adventure in Tomar draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've had. Today was all about soaking in the last bits of Tomar's natural beauty and savoring its culinary delights. It’s funny how a place can feel like home in such a short time, and Tomar has certainly captured a piece of my heart. Olivia and I made sure to make the most of our final day, creating memories that we’ll cherish long after we’ve returned to Toronto.

Our day began, as many others did, with a delightful breakfast at Hotel Dos Templarios. The spread was as impressive as ever, setting us up perfectly for a day of exploration and relaxation. After breakfast, we decided to head to Praia Fluvial do Sobreirinho, a river beach I'd heard good things about. The drive there was scenic, winding through the lush countryside that defines this part of Portugal. When we arrived, the beach was even more charming than I had imagined.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Praia Fluvial do Sobreirinho, a hidden riverside paradise perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities in Portugal.

Praia Fluvial do Sobreirinho is a small, picturesque spot nestled along the Nabão River. The water was crystal clear, and the surrounding greenery created a tranquil atmosphere. It was the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Olivia and I spent a couple of hours lounging by the river, soaking up the sun, and simply enjoying each other's company. The peace and quiet were a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of city life. I even took a refreshing dip in the river – the water was cool and invigorating, a perfect way to beat the summer heat. We found a lovely spot for a picnic nearby, making it an ideal family outing location.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

Next on our itinerary was Park Mouchão, a place I was particularly excited to visit. Known as the Island of Mouchão, this park is located in the middle of the Nabão River and is accessible via charming wooden footbridges. As we strolled through the park, we were greeted by graceful swans gliding along the river and an old-fashioned water wheel, adding to the park's idyllic charm. The gardens were beautifully maintained, and there were plenty of play areas for children, making it a perfect spot for families. Olivia and I took a leisurely walk, admiring the scenery and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. We stopped at the on-site coffeehouse for a drink, savoring the scenic views and the tranquil ambiance.


Park Mouchão in Tomar: A picturesque urban park with lush gardens and historical charm, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

For lunch, we ventured to Veras' House Restaurant, a local eatery that came highly recommended. The restaurant had a cozy, unassuming vibe, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We ordered a selection of traditional Portuguese dishes, eager to taste the local flavors. The portions were generous, and the food was absolutely delicious. Olivia particularly enjoyed the fried shrimp, while I was a big fan of the mixed seafood plate. The seafood was fresh and flavorful, and the prices were very reasonable. It was evident that this was a place where locals came to relax and enjoy good food, and we felt right at home.


Discover the essence of Portuguese cuisine at Veras' House Restaurant in Tomar, where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a break at Café Paraiso, a historic café in the heart of Tomar. Founded in 1911, this café has been a local institution for over a century. The café had a charming, old-world feel, with Art Deco influences and a relaxed atmosphere. We ordered coffee and some traditional Portuguese pastries, savoring the moment and reflecting on our time in Tomar. The café was a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the local culture, and we enjoyed watching the world go by as we sipped our coffee. It was fascinating to learn that the café has been in the same family for generations, and it's clear that they take great pride in their establishment.


Discover Café Paraiso in Tomar, a charming café offering delightful pastries and a cozy atmosphere for a perfect break during your travels.

For our final dinner in Tomar, we chose Taverna d'Talha, a restaurant known for its medieval-themed ambiance and traditional Portuguese cuisine. The tavern was located in the old Jewish quarter of Tomar, adding to its historical charm. As we stepped inside, we were transported back in time. The décor was rustic and authentic, with wooden tables, candlelight, and staff dressed in medieval attire. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and we felt as though we were dining in a medieval tavern. We ordered a selection of tapas and traditional dishes, eager to experience the flavors of the past. The food was hearty and delicious, and the portions were generous. Olivia particularly enjoyed the baked camembert with honey and almonds, while I was a big fan of the wild boar pie. The restaurant also served Ginjinha, a traditional Portuguese liqueur served in clay cups, adding to the medieval experience. It was a truly memorable dining experience, and a perfect way to end our time in Tomar.


Experience the authentic flavors of Portugal at Taverna d'Talha in Tomar—your go-to spot for delicious tapas and vibrant local culture.

Before heading back to the hotel, we made one last stop at Café Paraiso for a nightcap. The café had transformed into a lively bar, with music and laughter filling the air. We ordered a couple of drinks and joined in the festivities, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and the company of locals and tourists alike. It was a perfect way to say goodbye to Tomar, and we felt grateful for the incredible experiences we had shared.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from our hotel room, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. Tomar has been an amazing destination, full of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the stunning Convento de Cristo to the serene river beaches and lush parks, Tomar has something for everyone. And the food! Oh, the food has been absolutely incredible. Every meal has been a culinary adventure, and we've savored every bite. I'm so glad that Olivia and I chose to spend our vacation here, and I know that we'll be back someday.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home. We’ll drive to Lisbon to catch our flight back to Toronto. While I’m looking forward to returning to the comforts of home, I’ll also miss the laid-back lifestyle and the warm hospitality of the Portuguese people. This trip has been a reminder of the importance of travel and exploration, and I can’t wait to start planning our next adventure.

For those of you considering a trip to Tomar, I highly recommend it. It's a hidden gem in Portugal, full of history, culture, and natural beauty. And who knows, maybe we'll see you there someday!

Until next time, Tomar. Thank you for the memories.

Até logo,
João