A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Obidos: The Medieval Jewel of Leira, Portugal

Introduction

Obidos is a small town located in the Leira district, in central Portugal. Known for its impressive medieval castle and charming cobblestone streets, Obidos is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world. Despite its size, the town is rich in history and culture, offering numerous attractions to explore.

The Castle of Obidos

Obidos Castle is undoubtedly the town's most famous attraction. Built in the 8th century, the castle is one of the best examples of medieval architecture in Portugal. Visitors can stroll along its ancient walls, admire stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside, and explore the numerous towers and ramps of the castle. Inside the castle, there is a historic inn that offers visitors the chance to spend the night in a genuine medieval castle.

The Old Town

Obidos' old town is another main attraction of the town. Its narrow cobblestone streets are filled with white houses with blue and yellow accents, many of which date back to the medieval era. Visitors can wander through these streets, visit the numerous craft shops, and try "ginja," a local liqueur made from cherries.

Church of Santa Maria

The Church of Santa Maria is another point of interest in Obidos. Built in the 15th century, the church is famous for its impressive frescoes and beautiful main altar. The church is also known for being the place where Queen Isabel of Aragon married at the age of 10.

The Aqueduct

Outside the town, visitors can find Obidos' aqueduct. Built in the 16th century, the aqueduct spans over 3 kilometers and is a remarkable testament to Renaissance engineering.

Festivals and Events

Obidos is renowned for its festivals and events, which attract visitors from all over the world. Among the most popular are the Chocolate Festival, held in March, and the Medieval Fair, taking place in July. During these events, the town comes alive with parades, music and dance performances, and numerous food and drink stalls.

Gastronomic Foods of Obidos

Ginjinha de Obidos

The Ginjinha of Obidos is a traditional Portuguese liqueur made from cherries (a type of fruit). This liqueur is served in small chocolate cups, which can be eaten after drinking the liqueur. The Ginjinha of Obidos is very popular in Portugal and is a gastronomic product you cannot miss when visiting Obidos.
Cheese Pies

Cheese pies are small pastries with creamy filling that originated in Portugal and are very popular in Obidos. These pastries have a crunchy texture outside and soft inside, covered with powdered sugar and cinnamon. They are the perfect accompaniment for coffee or tea.
Fresh Seafood

Due to its coastal location, Obidos offers a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood. Local restaurants serve dishes with freshly caught marine products, ensuring their freshness and flavor. Among the most popular dishes are codfish, sardines, and grilled shellfish.

Notable Gastronomic Places in Óbidos

Obrigado, a charming medieval village in the Leiria district of Portugal, is renowned for its impressive castle, cobblestone streets, and rich culinary heritage. Here, we present some of the most notable gastronomic spots in the area:

Pousada do Castelo Restaurant

Located within Óbidos Castle, the Pousada do Castelo offers a unique culinary experience. With stunning views of the village, this restaurant is celebrated for its exquisite Portuguese cuisine. Here, you can savor traditional dishes such as bacalao a bras, roast suckling pig, and the famous ginjinha of Óbidos. The elegant atmosphere and exceptional service make this spot ideal for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.

Manelvina Tavern

If you're seeking a place with charm and good prices, the Taberna do Manelvina is an excellent choice. This cozy establishment offers a wide variety of tapas and traditional Portuguese dishes, including fish soup, seafood rice, and leitão à Bairrada. Additionally, its extensive wine list allows you to pair your favorite dishes with an outstanding selection of Portuguese wines.

A Lenda Restaurant

The Restaurante A Lenda is another must-visit in Óbidos. Known for its rustic ambiance and delicious fare, this restaurant serves a variety of Portuguese dishes, such as chicken piri-piri, golden codfish, and feijoada. Furthermore, its friendly staff and excellent value make it a very popular choice among both locals and tourists.

Sports Activities in Óbidos

Golf

Óbidos es conocido por sus impresionantes campos de golf. El Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort es uno de los más populares, ofreciendo vistas panorámicas del Océano Atlántico y del castillo de Óbidos.

Bicycling and Hiking

The region of Óbidos offers numerous hiking and cycling routes. You can explore the beautiful landscape of the area, including its vineyards, olive groves, and the impressive Atlantic coast.

Water Sports

Natación

Buceo

El buceo es una disciplina que requiere habilidad y seguridad en el agua.

Esquí acuático

El esquí acuático combina destreza con la manejabilidad de un esquista en aguas.

The proximity of Óbidos to the Atlantic Ocean makes it an ideal place for water sports. You can enjoy activities such as surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing on nearby beaches.

Football

Football is a very popular sport in Portugal and Óbidos is no exception. You can watch a match at one of the local stadiums or even participate in a game with the locals.

Places Near Obidos

If you are in Obidos and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some cities and towns nearby that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Nazaré

Nazare, Portugal, is an enchanting tourist destination known for its impressive beaches, traditional fishing culture and delicious seafood cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try its famous seafood dish, "Caldeirada de Peixe".

Alcobaça

Alcobaça, Portugal, is famous for its majestic monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its rich gastronomy includes delicacies like Alcobaça apples and custard tarts, which can be enjoyed in its charming cafes and restaurants.