Step into the charming time capsule of Òbidos, Portugal, where cobblestone streets whisper tales of medieval romance.
The tourist in the quaint town of Obidos
As we strolled through its fortified walls, we were whisked away to an era of knights and fair maidens, surrounded by quaint shops offering treasures from yesteryears.
A picturesque town with lovely shops
But amidst the historical splendor, one thing stole the show – Ginja de Óbidos! This potent potion, served in chocolate cups, was both tempting and intimidating. With hesitant hearts, we pondered its strength until Mario from Ocean Clover dared us to take the plunge. And oh, how we soared on the wings of cherry-scented bravery!
The Kings Best Secret And the last but the best dare ..
With giggles and glee, we wandered, sipping on liquid courage, until we found ourselves posing for a picture-perfect moment outside the fort, thanking Ocean Clover for unveiling Portugal’s spirited soul. In the end, Òbidos wasn’t just a town; it was a whimsical journey through time, with a cherry on top!
Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira beckons as a paradise for those enchanted by nature’s wonders and seekers of thrilling adventures. For me, it’s always been a dream destination, with its lush landscapes and inviting trails. Positioned about 700 km from Marrakesh, Morocco, this island, despite its proximity to Africa, proudly stands as an autonomous region of Portugal, boasting tropical weather and crystalline blue seas.
Recently, I embarked on a three-day escapade to Madeira with my dear friends Jennifer, Clara, and Ralla, eager to explore its marvels.
The tourist
Day 1: Discovering Funchal
Mercado Lavadores 0
Our journey kicked off in Funchal, the pulsating heart of Madeira. After dropping off our bags, we dove into the city’s charms. Brunch at Mercado Lavadores fueled us for a leisurely stroll along Rua Santa Maria, the oldest street adorned with captivating door paintings.
Brunch at Mercado Lavadores A chitchat and more Obligatory shot The paintings on the doors of Rua Santa Maria
The cable car ride treated us to panoramic vistas, including the exhilarating toboggan descent, a timeless Madeiran tradition.
Down we gooo
We wrapped up the day with ice cream along Ave. Do Mar, relishing the salty breeze, before indulging in elegance at Reid’s Palace.
Day 2: Chasing Sunrise and Embracing Nature
Rising before dawn, we embarked on a rendezvous with nature.
Our guide whisked us away to witness the breathtaking sunrise from Pico de Aireiro, the island’s second-highest peak. Despite the chilly morning, the radiant sun’s embrace warmed our souls, reinforcing our bond with the natural world.
Good morning world Here comes the sun
A hearty camping breakfast prepared by our guide sustained us for an enchanting hike along the Levadas, deepening our reverence for Mother Nature.
Levada walk
Day 3: The Defender Adventure
Jen and the defender
Our final day dawned with excitement as we embarked on an off-road odyssey with our intrepid guide, Mauricio. From the vertiginous heights of Cabo Girao to the tranquil beauty of Porto Moniz’s volcanic pools, each stop unveiled Madeira’s rugged splendor.
And it will just take your breath away
A gastronomic delight awaited us at a local fisherman’s restaurant, where we savored Espada with banana, a culinary revelation.
Espada with banana on top
Our journey culminated in Fanal Forest, a UNESCO-protected sanctuary graced by majestic Laurisilva trees, leaving an indelible imprint on our hearts.
As we bid farewell to Madeira, we knew our adventure had only scratched the surface of its allure. Until we meet again, Madeira, your beauty continues to beckon us with promises of new discoveries and unforgettable experiences.
As I reminisce about my first encounter with Mario from Ocean Clover viagens e turismo, I can’t help but marvel at the journey that unfolded since that autumn day in Lisbon. Mario wasn’t just a driver; he became the key to unlocking Portugal’s secrets, one hidden gem at a time.
It all started with a simple airport pickup, but it quickly evolved into a friendship rooted in a shared love for exploration.
A year later, when I returned to Lisbon with a friend, Mario eagerly became our guide, weaving tales of Porto, Aveiros, Sintra, and beyond.
Porto and all
But what truly sets Ocean Clover apart is their commitment to going beyond the beaten path. Mario and his team didn’t just take us to the tourist hotspots; they led us to the soul of Portugal—the secret spots known only to locals and seasoned travelers.
I’ve entrusted Mario with the travel plans of my fellow Peregrinos before our Camino de Santiago de Compostella journey, and each time, Ocean Clover has exceeded expectations.
Peregrinos were having a blast in Portugal .
Just last week, as I reunited with Mario and my friends, I realized why I keep coming back to Ocean Clover. It’s not just about the destinations; it’s about the experience. Mario and his team don’t just show you Portugal; they make you feel it.
We went and learn about the secret gems of Portugal and its churches
So, if you’re ready to uncover the magic of Portugal beyond the Instagram filters, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ocean Clover. Trust me; you won’t regret it.
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