Obidos- a beautiful Medieval walled town just one hour away from Figueira da Foz

One of our favourite day trips near to Figueira da Foz has to be Obidos. This beautiful Medieval-style walled town is just an hour and twenty minute drive away from Casa Foz, or- if you’re planning to sample the gorgeous and very alcoholic Obidos speciality brandy Ginginha made from cherries, a two and a half hour train journey (€8).

The town is situated on top of a hill and topped with an impressive castle surrounded by walls that are still standing to this day- you can see how it would have been an impressive strong-hold in years gone by. Obidos is choc-full of impressively well-preserved narrow Medieval streets and squares, which are a joy to meander around on a lazy afternoon.

Take a walk around the top of the walls for breath-taking views of the surrounding green fields and farmland, and keep your eyes open for the deer that roam freely close to the castle. If shopping is your preference than make sure you take time to visit the small traditional shops that line the higgledy piggeldy ancient streets, which offer artisan chocolates, crafts and the local cherry brandy.

Any time is ideal to visit Obidos, but if you’re a chocoholic you will be in heaven in March, as Obidos is hosting its annual festival of chocolate in the town from 4th-14th March 2010. One of the best discoveries we’ve made are the chocolate shot glasses that hold Ginginha- you can take the sweet hit of this moreish cherry brandy and then eat the delicious dark chocolate glass that it came in.

A visit to Obidos is a feast for the eyes and taste-buds, and one we definitely recommend.