Exploring the Historic Charms of Tomar, Portugal

Following the Flow: A Day of Aqueducts and Castles

Today was all about venturing beyond the familiar Convent of Christ and delving into the lesser-known historical marvels surrounding Tomar. We traded the well-trodden paths for a journey through time, exploring the impressive Aqueduto dos Pegões and the formidable Castle of Ourém. It was a day of discovery, offering a fresh perspective on the rich tapestry of Portuguese history.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hotel Dos Templarios. Fuelled up and ready for adventure, Olivia and I set off to explore the Aqueduto dos Pegões Altos. The aqueduct, a magnificent feat of 17th-century engineering, stretches for six kilometers, bringing water to the Convento de Cristo. As we approached, the sheer scale of the structure was breathtaking. The arches soared high above us, a testament to the ingenuity of the architects and engineers of the time. It was commissioned by King Philip I to supply water to the Convent of Christ, and it certainly served its purpose well!


Experience the charm of Tomar at Hotel Dos Templarios - your perfect getaway with modern amenities, exquisite dining, and rich local culture.
We walked along a section of the aqueduct, marveling at the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The gentle breeze carried the scent of wildflowers, and the sun warmed our faces. It was a truly immersive experience, connecting us to the past in a tangible way. I couldn't help but imagine the workers who toiled to build this incredible structure, their dedication and skill evident in every stone.

Sometimes, the most impressive sights are those that quietly serve a purpose, connecting us to the ingenuity and resilience of those who came before us.

After our aqueduct adventure, we drove to Ourém, a charming medieval town perched atop a hill. The main attraction here is the Castle of Ourém, a historic fortress with roots dating back to the 12th century. As we approached the castle, its imposing silhouette against the sky was a sight to behold. The castle has seen its fair share of history, having been conquered from the Moors in 1136 and later serving as an important defensive structure during the Middle Ages.


Explore the stunning Castle of Ourem, a historic fortress offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Portugal's medieval past.
Exploring the castle grounds, we wandered through the ruins of the old palace, imagining the lives of the counts and kings who once resided here. The views from the castle walls were simply stunning, stretching across the rolling hills and verdant valleys. Olivia, ever the artist, was in her element, capturing the beauty of the landscape with her camera. I, on the other hand, was more interested in the historical aspects, reading every plaque and sign, eager to learn more about the castle's past.

For lunch, we decided to try La Bella – Restaurante Italiano, Lda. I know it's not exactly traditional Portuguese food, but Olivia was craving some pasta, and I must admit, the reviews were enticing. We shared a delicious spaghetti carbonara and a flavorful risotto, accompanied by a refreshing glass of sangria. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the service was excellent. It was a delightful break in our day of historical exploration.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Bella in Tomar – where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
In the afternoon, we strolled through the streets of Tomar and stumbled upon Nanda's gallery, a charming little shop filled with unique fashion accessories. Olivia, with her keen eye for style, was immediately drawn to the colorful scarves and handcrafted jewelry. I admired the artistry and craftsmanship on display, appreciating the local talent and creativity. We ended up buying a beautiful, hand-painted scarf for Olivia's mother, a perfect souvenir from our trip.


Discover the charm of Nanda's Gallery in Tomar, where unique fashion accessories meet local craftsmanship and artistic flair.
As evening approached, we headed to Tasquinha da Mitas for dinner, a restaurant recommended by several locals. It turned out to be a fantastic choice. The restaurant had a cozy, traditional atmosphere, and the menu featured a variety of Portuguese dishes. I opted for the grilled octopus, while Olivia chose the chèvre with fig jam. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, a true celebration of Portuguese cuisine. We savored every bite, accompanied by a bottle of local wine, as we reflected on the day's adventures.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Tasquinha da Mitas in Tomar - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Tomorrow, we are planning a day trip to Fátima to visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima and the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima. It's a place of great religious significance, and I'm looking forward to experiencing its spiritual atmosphere. We might stop by Lounge by d'O Costume for a drink in the evening, depending on how tired we are after a day of exploring.

Today was a reminder that Tomar and its surroundings have so much to offer beyond the Convent of Christ. From the soaring arches of the Aqueduto dos Pegões to the ancient stones of the Castle of Ourém, every corner tells a story, inviting us to delve deeper into the region's rich history and culture. And with Olivia by my side, every discovery becomes even more special.

As I sit here, penning down our experiences, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful country and share its wonders with you. Until tomorrow, boa noite from Tomar!

P.S. I almost forgot! I was so caught up in the historical sites that I completely forgot to pack an umbrella. The weather forecast predicted sunshine, but you never know when a sudden shower might strike. Lesson learned: always be prepared for unexpected rain, especially when traveling in Portugal!

Also, I was so focused on capturing the perfect shots that I nearly filled up my camera's memory card. Luckily, I had a spare one in my bag, but it was a close call. Next time, I'll make sure to bring extra memory cards to avoid any photography emergencies.