Fátima is one of the most significant Catholic pilgrimage places in the world. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it‘s a worship site which attracts scores of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. Its importance arises from the apparitions of Our Lady of Rosary to a group of children, one hundred years ago, carrying a message of hope during troublesome and ominous times.

The Batalha’s Monastery built to commemorate Portugal’s victory over Castilla at the battle of Aljubarrota, 1385, is a World Heritage Monument by UNESCO. Credited as the birthplace of the Manueline-style, a Portuguese evolution of Gothic, it’s a striking example of craftsmanship, ingenuity, and art.

Nazaré is the most typical fisherman’s village in Portugal and manages to keep many of its traditional activities both as an identity statement and a touristic magnet. Either way, it’s rooted in the community and feels authentic. The shell-shaped bay beach front is admirable and protected by a 318m cliff, where the view is superb. The already internationally well-known village was launched into stardom by American professional big wave surfer Garrett ‘GMAC’ McNamara. In November 2011 he caught a 24 m (78-foot) wave at Praia do Norte, Nazaré, entering the Guinness Book of Records. Since then, Nazaré has become a cult location for big wave surfers and surf lovers from everywhere in the world.

Óbidos’s medieval uniqueness is exceptional. The remarkable preservation of the castle and village within walls is rare. Furthermore, through the cobblestone winding streets and amongst small random houses other historical monuments are found intact. Visiting Óbidos is a fulfilling and unparalleled heritage experience.