ONE DAY IN ALCOBAÇA

We start our day in Alcobaça with a visit to the Convent of Cós founded with the purpose of receiving some devoted widows who ensured the functioning of the powerful abbey of Alcobaça. In sec.

At a short distance we find the Chapel of Santa Rita, originally called Bom Jesus do Calvário by its founder in the 19th century, a monk of the Monastery of Alcobaça, Frei Cristóvão do Rosário. Here we can enjoy a magnificent surrounding landscape.

We continue our journey towards the local village of Aljubarrota, place of important historical figures such as “Aljubarrota Backer” and the portuguese architect Eugénio dos Santos responsible for the reconstruction of Lisbon downtown after the earthquake of 1755. We will explore from a pleasant walk through its historic streets where the buildings remain the ancient traces of medieval characteristics.

Before lunch we will make a quick visit to the ruins of the Castle of Alcobaça, whose origin generates some controversy, from where we can enjoy a beautiful view over the city, including its famous monastery, the surrounding fields and the Sierra of Candeeiros. Typical lunch with conventual sweets degustation.

After lunch we will visit the Monastery of Santa Maria de Alcobaça, or Royal Abbey of Santa Maria one of the first Cistercian monastic foundations in Portuguese territory, and its construction began in 1178 by the Cistercian monks. It is currently classified as a World Heritage by UNESCO and it was elected as one of the seven wonders of Portugal.

We leave the center of Alcobaça to São Martinho do Porto to take a final moment of enjoyment with the landscape and surroundings of the west coast in one of the most beautiful Portuguese beaches with its shell shape. Free time for walking. Return.