PORTUGAL-DAY 4

Part of our “Latergram ” series. This trip took place June 2022.

Some places make you feel welcome. Others make you feel genuinely, deeply restored. The Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort belongs to that rarer second category — a five-star haven on Portugal’s Silver Coast. Royal Óbidos Scenic Resort offers a 5-star hotel with a spa, restaurant, bars, and a conference center. The resort features villas, apartments, a golf course, playground, courts, and activities for all ages.

What we really liked was how refreshed and restored we felt when we woke this morning. I would definitely want to stay here again when visiting Obidos again.

First top of the day is Caldas da Rainha. Caldas da Rainha (“Queen’s Hot Waters”) was founded in 1485 by Queen D. Leonor, who established the world’s oldest purpose-built thermal hospital. Located on Portugal’s Silver Coast, the town grew around its natural, curative hot springs and grew into a 19th-century luxury spa resort, later becoming famous for its bold pottery and art.

When we talk about its “bold” pottery, this traditionally conservative town became know for its fertility pottery like salt and pepper shakers that are shaped like penises. But they didn’t stop there. There are pasteries and all other sorts of sundries that are phallic inspired.

From the luscious garden style park we walked through to the vendors at open air market , this was a quiet and quaint little town with a rich and “bold” history.

I really enjoyed all the old architecture, the artistic or historic property and address plaques that a lot of the buildings had there.

And I’ll never turn down an opportunity for great old door or door knocker pictures. They add character to their story.

I was excited when I found out that one of the stops on our trade mission was going to be visiting Nazaré. Mostly because I have watched all three season of the biodoc series on HBO titled “100 Foot Wave” which is fantastic and I highly recommend if you have seen it.

Released in 2021, this series is about the life of surfing pioneer Garrett McNamara’s and his quest to conquer a 100-foot wave and its transformation of Nazare, Portugal.

Here are some more pictures from our short visit here in Nazaré.

I lost a few of pictures along the way but we had an fantastic lunch at this bayside restaurant called Boca do Mar.

Restaurante Boca do Mar is a delightful beachfront dining spot that perfectly blends traditional flavors with innovative culinary creations.

Nestled in the picturesque setting of Sao Martinho do Porto, this restaurant boasts stunning views that enhance your dining experience.

The menu changes seasonally, ensuring a fresh and exciting selection for every visit. Guests rave about dishes like the sea bass and filet mignon, highlighting their quality and presentation.

Sitting out on the patio with the umbrellas for shade and the refreshing breeze made for a delightful experience. I highly recommend this place.

After a great lunch, we walked a few block down the street to visit a private condo community development called Janela da Baia that was under construction at the time. so I wont post any construction pictures, but these concept images showcase this property’s unique design and flare.

The proximity to cities and towns such as Caldas da Rainha, Nazaré, Peniche, Óbidos or Alcobaça, rich in historical heritage and natural beauty, ensure a high quality cultural offer.

Among many leisure activities on offer offers, we highlight the excellent Béltico Golf course, or for those who prefer the practice of surfing, the world-famous beaches, Praia do Norte in Nazaré, or Praia dos Supertubos in Peniche.

Portugal is the safest country in Europe and the third safest in the world and has, for 3 consecutive years been considered the best vacation destination in the world.

The last stop of the day was in the magical and historic walled town of Óbidos.

The enchanting Medieval village of Óbidos, encircled by walls, will amaze you with its endless beauty. This is why until 1883 Óbidos was exclusive property of the Queens of Portugal. A UNESCO Creative City, Óbidos is a paradise for book lovers from all over the globe. A literary town embellished by bougainvilleas, winding streets and colorful houses. Sweet like chocolate!

I couldn’t get enough of soak in the beauty, the history, the medieval architecture.

The municipality grew from a Roman settlement near the foothills of an elevated escarpment.

Wiki has a great write up about its history here.

Here are some of the many pictures I took that afternoon.

Enjoy!

With another full day behind us, it was nice to get back to our resort to shower, freshen up and rest before our evening group meal. I just really enjoyed the design and layout of the resort. 

And who can deny the peace that a gorgeous coastal sunset brings. Thanks for an amazing day Portugal.