A Day of Surf, Wine, and History in Mafra

When I first heard about the Portugal Tour experience, I was immediately intrigued. As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for activities that offer a blend of fun, education, and local culture. This tour promised all that and more, so I packed up my three kids and set off for a day of adventure in Mafra.

Our journey began with a visit to the Palacio Nacional de Mafra, a grandiose palace-monastery that left us all in awe. The kids were fascinated by the sheer size of the place, with its 1,200 rooms and 4,700 doors and windows. We spent a good amount of time exploring the library, which houses about 36,000 volumes of books and transcripts. It was a great opportunity to teach the kids about the importance of preserving history and knowledge.

Stepping Back in Time at Aldeia Museu Jose Franco

Next, we traveled to the Aldeia Museu Jose Franco, a living museum that transported us back to 1945. This quaint village museum was a hit with the kids, who loved seeing the antique costumes and learning about the rural life of Portugal. The museum’s creator, a sculptor and poet, did an incredible job of preserving the memory of an era, and the attention to detail was truly impressive.

As we wandered through the village, I couldn’t help but think about how important it is to expose children to different cultures and ways of life. This experience was not only fun but also educational, providing the kids with a deeper understanding of Portugal’s rich history and traditions.

Surfing and Wine Tasting in Ericeira and Cheleiros

Our final stops were Ericeira and Cheleiros, where we experienced the best of both worlds: surfing and wine tasting. Ericeira, with its stunning beaches and charming fishing village vibe, was the perfect place for the kids to try their hand at surfing. The waves were gentle enough for beginners, and the instructors were patient and encouraging.

After a morning of surfing, we headed to Cheleiros for a wine tasting experience. While the kids enjoyed some local bread and olives, I indulged in a tasting session of six different wines. The family-run winery was welcoming and informative, and I learned a lot about the wine-making process.

Overall, the Portugal Tour was a fantastic experience for the whole family. It offered a perfect blend of adventure, education, and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for families looking to explore the less-visited side of Portugal. I highly recommend it to anyone planning a trip to Mafra.