Exploring the Historic Charms of Tomar, Portugal

Day 4: Discovering Tomar's Tranquil Charms

Today was all about embracing the simple pleasures of Tomar. After a few days of intense historical exploration, Olivia and I decided to slow down and soak in the town’s more relaxed side. It turned out to be exactly what we needed, a perfect blend of nature, local culture, and delicious food.

Our day began, as usual, with a delightful breakfast at Hotel Dos Templarios. The buffet spread was as impressive as ever, and I made sure to load up on some fresh pastries and strong coffee to fuel our morning adventure. Olivia, ever the early bird, had already planned our route for the day. She’s truly the best travel companion a guy could ask for – always organized and full of enthusiasm.


Experience the charm of Tomar at Hotel Dos Templarios - your perfect getaway with modern amenities, exquisite dining, and rich local culture.

First on our list was the Levada de Tomar. This scenic pathway runs alongside the Nabão River and promised a tranquil walk through nature. As we set off, the air was crisp and fresh, a welcome change from the bustling tourist spots we had visited earlier in the week. The Levada is a testament to Tomar’s rich history, originally built to supply water to the mills and gardens around the city. Now, it serves as a peaceful retreat for locals and tourists alike.


Explore the stunning Levada de Tomar, a picturesque promenade along the Nabão River, perfect for nature lovers and leisurely strolls.

Walking along the Levada, we were surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of the flowing river. It was hard to believe we were still in the heart of town. We passed several locals enjoying their morning walks, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of connection to the community. Olivia, of course, had her camera out, snapping away at the picturesque scenery. She has an eye for detail, capturing the beauty in the simplest of things.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest moments.

We strolled at a leisurely pace, stopping occasionally to admire the views and take photos. The Levada led us through shaded paths and open meadows, offering a variety of landscapes to enjoy. I even spotted an old water mill along the way, a reminder of the area’s industrial past. The entire experience was incredibly calming, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I made a mental note to incorporate more of these nature walks into our Toronto routine; it’s easy to forget the importance of disconnecting and reconnecting with nature.

After our refreshing walk, we made our way to Praça da República, the main square in Tomar. This vibrant hub is the heart of the town, surrounded by historic buildings and bustling cafes. The square is paved with beautiful diamond-patterned tiling, and in the center stands a statue of Gualdim Pais, the founder of Tomar and a prominent figure in the Knights Templar. It’s always fascinating to learn about the historical figures who shaped these towns, adding another layer of depth to our travels.


Explore the vibrant Praça da República in Tomar, a cultural hub blending history, cuisine, and lively local atmosphere.

Olivia and I spent some time admiring the architecture around the square. The Igreja de São João Baptista, with its Gothic style and Manueline doorway, caught our attention. We decided to step inside and were immediately struck by the Renaissance paintings and traditional Portuguese tiles adorning the altar. It’s amazing how these historical buildings continue to inspire awe and reverence centuries later.

Feeling a bit peckish, we decided to grab lunch at Restaurant Beira Rio, recommended by one of the locals we met on the Levada. The restaurant was just a short walk from the Praça da República, nestled along the riverbank. We managed to snag a table with a view of the Nabão River, adding to the ambiance. The menu featured traditional Portuguese dishes, and we decided to try the grilled fish and a hearty stew. The food was absolutely delicious, bursting with fresh flavors and local ingredients. It’s these authentic culinary experiences that truly make a trip memorable.


Experience traditional Portuguese cuisine in Tomar at Restaurant Beira Rio – where every dish tells a story.

As we savored our meal, we watched as locals and tourists alike strolled along the riverbank, enjoying the warm afternoon sun. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, and I felt a sense of belonging in this charming town. Olivia and I chatted about our favorite moments from the trip so far, reminiscing about the Convento de Cristo and the Quinta da Auga Bella. It’s amazing how quickly we’ve fallen in love with Tomar and its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

After lunch, we decided to do some shopping at Centro Comercial Templários. I had read mixed reviews about the place, some saying it was a bit outdated, but we were curious to see it for ourselves. The mall was indeed a bit quieter than the modern shopping centers we’re used to in Toronto, but it had a certain charm to it. We browsed through the local shops, picking up a few souvenirs for friends and family back home. Olivia found a beautiful hand-painted tile, while I snagged a bottle of local wine. It’s always fun to bring back a little piece of our travels to share with loved ones.


Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Centro Comercial Templários, where local charm meets modern retail in the heart of Tomar.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back to the hotel to relax and freshen up before dinner. We spent some time lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The Hotel Dos Templarios has truly been a haven for us, offering comfort and convenience in the heart of Tomar. I even managed to squeeze in a quick workout at the hotel gym, trying to balance out all the delicious food we’ve been indulging in.

For dinner, we decided to try O Siciliano - Restaurante e Pizzeria, craving something a bit different from the traditional Portuguese fare we’d been eating. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring a variety of Italian dishes. We ordered a pizza and some pasta, and both were cooked to perfection. It was a nice change of pace, and we thoroughly enjoyed our meal.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at O Siciliano in Tomar – where every meal is a delightful journey through Italy.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through the town, enjoying the cool evening air. Tomar is particularly beautiful at night, with its historic buildings illuminated by soft lighting. We walked along the Nabão River, listening to the gentle sounds of the water. It was the perfect way to end our day, reflecting on all the wonderful experiences we’ve had so far.

As we head into tomorrow, we're planning to explore Ermida de Nossa Senhora da Piedade and the Chapel of Santa Iria, adding more historical layers to our adventure. We're also looking forward to trying out Enigma - Hamburgueria Artesanal - Tomar for lunch and Fernandos' Brewery for dinner, promising another day filled with delightful discoveries and flavors.

Back at the hotel, I’m writing this blog post, feeling grateful for another amazing day in Tomar. It’s incredible how this small town has captured our hearts with its tranquil charms and rich history. I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I’m content to savor the memories of today’s simple pleasures.

Before signing off, I wanted to share a little something I learned today that really resonated with me. Tomar is more than just a collection of historical landmarks; it’s a living, breathing community with a unique spirit and character. It’s a place where the past and present blend seamlessly, creating an atmosphere that’s both captivating and comforting. And it’s a place that I know Olivia and I will never forget.

Until tomorrow, Bom noite!