The best road cycling routes around Coto

The Sanctuary of Senhor Jesus da Pedra is located in the parish of Santa Maria, in the municipality of Óbidos, in the western region of Portugal. The Sanctuary was classified as a Monument of Public Interest in 2013.

The castle of Torres Vedras is an important part of Portuguese history. It was a strategic point in the fight against the Moors and later against Napoleon. The castle was conquered in 1147 by Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal.

Today I was lucky and was able to visit the ruins as well.

Salt is extracted from shallow, concrete or stone pans of varying sizes, where saltwater drawn from a well is conveyed through ditches. Currently, the water is pumped by a motor and distributed according to a system that is generally accepted and respected (not always) by all the owners. Drainpipes, threshing floors, and wooden salt storage houses complete the complex known as the Rio Maior Salt Pans. According to technicians, a large and deep rock salt mine, traversed by an underground stream that feeds a well, makes the extracted water salty, seven times saltier than seawater. The salt is obtained from its exposure to the sun and wind, and the resulting evaporation of the water. This salt is deposited at the bottom of the pans, which are then piled up in pyramid-shaped heaps to dry until harvest. The process is rudimentary and similar to that used in seaside salt mines. The only difference is the picturesque valley that surrounds them, the well, the unique style of the sailors (as the men who work in the salt mines are known), the wooden houses and the country air that you breathe.

The Castelo de Óbidos is a medieval castle and symbolically towers over the town of Óbidos. The fortification is likely of Roman origin, but the region was settled even earlier, in prehistoric times. Its eventful history over the decades can be found here: https://www.burgen.de/burgen-und-schloesser/portugal/castelo-de-obidos/ In the 20th century, the Castelo de Óbidos was found completely in ruins. Starting in 1932, the castle underwent the first consolidation, reconstruction, and restoration work. It was restored to accommodate state guests – the first Portuguese state accommodation in a historic building. Therefore, the interior of the castle is unfortunately no longer open to visitors.

A perfect place to recharge: with a public restroom and a picnic area. On weekends, there's likely to be a vendor selling fruit and other items.

The website www.visitportugal.com recommends this church, stating: "Don't miss a visit to this sanctuary, located outside the city walls of Óbidos. Its octagonal exterior silhouette stands out from afar and is crowned by a large pyramid covered with green glazed tiles. It was built between 1740 and 1747, during the Baroque period. However, its details were never completed. Perhaps this is why several of the windows are strangely reversed. It is dedicated to Senhor da Pedra, and the pilgrimage to this site takes place on May 28th."

Castelo de Torres Vedras is an imposing medieval fortress, with a history that dates back to Roman times and a significant role in the Napoleonic Wars (as part of the Lines of Torres Vedras). The castle represents an important historical heritage. If you want to stop here for a break you can explore its ancient walls and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.