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What to expect

Guided Walks

Guided Walks

Enjoy five fully guided walks following ancient trails through historic Knights Templar lands, majestic castles, and beautiful river valleys.

UNESCO Sites

UNESCO Sites

isit magnificent UNESCO-listed monasteries like Batalha and Alcobaça Abbeys, marveling at their stunning architecture and historical significance.

Geological Wonders

Geological Wonders

Witness the stunning scenery while walking through the limestone hills, fantastic cave formations, and charming villages of the Serra de Aires Natural Park.

Nature & Local Cuisine

Nature & Local Cuisine

Walk along the scenic Nabão River, part of the Camino de Santiago, and savor the flavors of the region with a unique guided tour and wine tasting at a local winery.

About this trip...

Follow directly in the storied footsteps of the famous Knights Templar on this unforgettable journey immersing you in Portugal’s rich medieval heritage. Based in the charming town of Tomar, once a formidable Templar stronghold, this escorted walking vacation takes you through the heart of history, exploring majestic castles, visiting awe-inspiring UNESCO-listed monasteries, and wandering through tranquil river valleys. Highlights of your trip include the incredibly impressive 'Convent of Christ', the storybook-like Almourol Castle perched dramatically on its own island, and the striking, dramatic landscapes of the Serra de Aires Natural Park, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Walking Level: Walking Level
What's this?

What's Included

  • Airport transfers (Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport)
  • Internal flight where noted
  • Private Room
  • Half Board – Breakfast and Dinner daily
  • Drinks included with evening meals
  • Welcome drink
  • Fully guided walking days
  • Accompanying Solos Tour Leader

What's extra:

  • International flights not included. Let us help you book them! Learn more.
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips & Drinks
  • Meals when not included in the itinerary
  • Activities not included in the itinerary
 

Itinerary

  • Arrive Lisbon
  • Tomar
  • Serra de Aires Natural Park
  • Tejo Valley
  • Day at Leisure
  • Nabão River
  • Ourém
  • Depart Lisbon

What you'll be doing

Day One: Arrive Lisbon

Day One: Arrive Lisbon

Arrive in Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport and transfer to our four-star hotel - Dos Templarios in Tomar. If time allows, an introductory walk will be offered. 
 
Meals Included: Dinner
Day Two: Discovering Tomar

Day Two: Discovering Tomar

The day will be dedicated to the town that will welcome us for the week. A morning introductory walk in the centre will allow us to pass the main monuments and points of interest. After lunch (at own cost), we’ll make our way to the town’s masterpiece - 'The Convent of Christ'. Built as a Templar stronghold in the 12th Century, it's a reminder of the power, knowledge, sacrifice and history of one of the most famous religious orders of all time – The Knight’s Templars. Within a short drive away, we’ll take time to enjoy the views and the engineering prowess of the 'Pegões Aqueduct', a 3.7 miles long aqueduct built in the 16th Century during the 'Philippine Dynasty' which supplied water for the convent.
From here, we return to our hotel to relax or discover Tomar’s unique downtown atmosphere. Should you wish to walk, an optional stroll will be offered alongside the aqueduct (as much as possible) through the gentle countryside, descending into town and back to the hotel. 
 
Transfer Time: 10mins
Distance: 1 mile
Duration:
Ascent: +220ft 
Descent: -220ft 
Terrain: A mix of paved streets, historic cobbled areas, and gentle walking routes through the town. Some uneven surfaces and steps may be encountered around historic sites.
 
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day Three: Exploring Serra de Aires Natural Park

Day Three: Exploring Serra de Aires Natural Park

After breakfast, we visit the Serra de Aires Natural Park's range of limestone hills and fantastic cave formations. The 'Santo António Caves' were discovered in the 1950s by a small boy that decided to follow a bird and saw it disappear through a deep hole in the ground. Seventy years later, we are privileged to witness a part of our planet’s geological wonders.

After lunch (at own cost), we’ll walk the trails down through the valley below the caves, taking us through quaint villages, shady paths and superb scenery as the valley opens out. 
 
Transfer Time: 1hr 
Distance: 4 miles
Duration:
Ascent: +325ft 
Descent:-245ft
Terrain: A mix of natural trails, valley paths, and quiet village lanes, with some uneven terrain, rocky sections, and gentle ascents and descents.
 
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day Four: Islands, Art & Gardens in Tejo Valley

Day Four: Islands, Art & Gardens in Tejo Valley

Amongst the middle reaches of the longest Iberian Peninsula river, on a small picturesque and picture-perfect rugged island, sits one of the most beautiful medieval military monuments in the country: the 'Almourol Castle'. Using a traditional boat to ferry us to this enigmatic island, we will have time to explore this 12th Century structure, where we’ll enjoy some of the best views of the week. Back on dry land, we follow Tanco’s shoreline towards the delightful garden of 'Vila Nova da Barquinha', a public garden and an open door gallery of modern sculptures from some of the most respected national artists.

Transfer Time: 45mins 
Distance: 2.5 miles
Duration:
Ascent/Descent: minimal 
Terrain: Mostly flat, with some uneven ground, cobbled areas, and gentle walking trails.
 
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day Five: Day at Leisure

Day Five: Day at Leisure

Today is a day at leisure. 

 
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day Six: Nabão River Walk & Winery Visit

Day Six: Nabão River Walk & Winery Visit

Named after 'Nabia' – the pagan goddess of rivers and water – the Nabão River stretches for 37 miles, with luxuriant riverbanks that run from the northern village of Ansião to the south, eventually flowing into the Zêzere River. Our walk this morning follows the course of the river and, at times, our route coincides with the Portuguese 'Caminho de Santiago'.

Later, we’ll visit a nearby winery where there’ll be a tour through the winery and wine cellar, with some disclosure of the secrets behind the art of making wine. This visit also includes wine tasting. 
 
Transfer Time: 20mins 
Distance: 4 miles
Duration:
Ascent/Descent: flat 
Terrain: A mix of shaded paths, woodland trails, generally gentle, with some uneven ground, tree roots, and occasional inclines.
 
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
 
Day Seven: Guided Tour of Ourém

Day Seven: Guided Tour of Ourém

Our last day is dedicated to the medieval village of Ourém. This remarkable hilltop village, nestled within ancient walls, is topped with a dramatic castle whose origins go back to Moorish times. We will enjoy a guided tour of the village and castle, after which we have time to relax in the local café and enjoy the views over the immense landscapes below. 

 
  • Transfer Time: 1hr
 Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day Eight: Depart Lisbon

Day Eight: Depart Lisbon

Today we check out of our hotel and say goodbye before transferring to Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport. 

 
Meals Included: Breakfast 

Trip Reviews

Wonderful Walking Tour

Was a great group of travel companions and a fabulous tour leader - Scott Jardine. He was good fun, helpful and looked after us brilliantly. We had a varied itinerary and some time to explore on our own - very pleased with my trip.

Roselover

You wont regret it

Absolutely terrific week away to Portugal for a bit of walking and learning about the Knights Templar. Scott was a fabulous rep, always checking in to make sure we were all ok. Fabulous tour guide, José, who was extremely knowledgeable and informative.Our days were packed with sightseeing and walking. The food was lovely and there was a lot of it as well as plenty of wine.The people on the trip were fabulous, and we had such a laugh.I totally recommend a Solos holiday

Lisa

Beautiful and interesting

In spite of the cold, rainy weather for part of the holiday Portugal was still beautiful and interesting. The walking was just right with a hint of a challenge. Our tour leader Scott Jardine was enthusiastic and friendly, with time for everyone. Jose the walking guide was personable and caring. The hotel was very comfortable with an excellent position near Tomar. Dinners were good with generous portions and the wine certainly flowed each evening.

Lesley

Best holiday so far

My best (so far) holiday with Solos. The guided walks were just half of the days activities, we visited stunning castles, UNESCO site monasteries and learned about the history of the Knights Templar. There were 14 guests on this trip and we had such a good time getting to know one anothe. The guides they arranged for the castle, caves, winery, boat trip all spoke very good English. I feel like I have come home with 14 new friends. 

Julia

Accommodations

Hotel dos Templarios - Tomar Four-star

Our beautiful hotel for the week is perfectly situated in the heart of Tomar next to the historic centre overlooking the river Nabão and makes the perfect base.
Facilities include
Facilities include restaurant, bar and lounge, two swimming pools including indoor pool open all year round, gym with sauna and massages and beauty treatments available by appointment (charges apply) free Wi-Fi throughout. There are lifts in the property however the spa and gym are accessed via stairs.
Room includes
The comfortable rooms include ensuite bathroom, hair dryer, bathrobe and slippers, flat screen satellite TV, small fridge, digital safe, free Wi-Fi, desk with chair, living area and balcony with views over the river or castle. We recommend to bring a travel kettle and tea, coffee for the room if required.

Dates & Prices

Departure Return Nights Price from Other Info
Oct 31 2026 Nov 7 2026 7
$2899
 

Essential Information

Gratuities
We suggest a Group Collection to cover transfer drivers, and hotel staff of €25.00 per person. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip. The tipping of housekeeping will be left to your individual discretion (a small amount left in your room on departure should cover this and would be much appreciated). As is customary, ‘the hat’ will be passed around for the driver and guide on all optional excursions. For any meals that are not included in your itinerary, or taxi fares, your Tour Leader can advise of an appropriate % add on.
Flights
Whether you'd like us to arrange your flights or prefer to book your own, we're here to make the process easy. Our team can secure flights from the location that suits you best, or provide all the arrival and departure details you'll need if booking independently.
 
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance before any trip — it safeguards you against unexpected issues like illness, cancellations, or lost luggage. It also protects your health and travel investment, giving you peace of mind to fully enjoy your journey. Click here. to learn more.
WhatsApp Group

Shortly before your holiday, you will be invited to join an optional WhatsApp group to connect with your fellow travellers and your Tour Leader.

What to Wear - Walking Days
It is important that you have the correct footwear. It is essential to wear walking boots that are comfortable and preferably lightweight, with some ankle support and a good grip. If you already have a pair of boots that you are happy walking in (including during hot/wet weather and on hard ground), then bring these along. However, if you are bringing new footwear, do make sure they are well broken in before you arrive. The weather, even in summer, can be unpredictable. We would therefore recommend you travel with clothing suitable for all conditions, and suggest you use the following checklist as a guideline of what to take:
  • Walking boots with good ankle support
  • Waterproofs – jacket and trousers
  • Walking poles – recommended as they provide good support for the knees, particularly on downhill sections of walks and when conditions are wet/slippery
  • Lightweight trousers and shorts with pockets
  • Shirts or t-shirts for walking in
  • Walking socks – several pairs
  • Lightweight fleece or jumper
  • Hat & gloves
  • Daysack/rucksack for walking
  • Umbrella – it can be used also for protection from the sun as well as rain
  • Lightweight drinking bottle to carry water whilst walking
  • Small first aid kit – plasters, insect repellant, etc
  • Good, high factor sunscreen, sunhat and sunglasses – the sun’s strength is often multiplied in mountainous areas.
Walking Programme

Guided walks are included as part of this trip. Your dedicated walking guide will brief you in resort on the daily walking programme.

The walking programme is graded by difficulty, and you can expect to walk varying distances with a range of ascents and descents. Some walks may be challenging, with uneven or rough terrain underfoot and sections at higher altitude. Please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for full details of each walk.

A good level of physical fitness is required to fully enjoy this trip.

It is important that you consider whether your chosen trip is suitable for your level of fitness, mobility and any medical conditions or additional needs. If you are unsure, please contact our team before booking. We will be happy to discuss the trip requirements and your individual circumstances to help you decide whether the trip is suitable for you.

We are committed to treating all customers fairly and will consider any reasonable adjustments where possible. Please let us know before booking if you have a disability, medical condition or any additional requirements that may affect your trip. This allows us to assess whether we can safely and appropriately accommodate your needs and to ensure you have the best possible trip experience.

Care should be taken at all times, particularly on uneven or wet terrain. If you normally use walking poles, we recommend bringing them with you. Sturdy walking boots or walking shoes are essential.

Please note that the route and content of the walking programme may need to change during the trip, at the discretion of the specialist walking guide or local organiser, if local conditions require.

If you have any concerns during your trip, please speak to your specialist walking guide or Solos Tour Leader.

For further information, please refer to our website Terms and Conditions https://www.solosholidays.com/us/terms-and-conditions/

Passport & Visas
We recommend that you check passport and visa requirements for the country you are visiting at the State Departmentif you have a U.S. Passport. Most countries require that your passport have at least six months validity when traveling internationally, and many require that you have one to two blank visa pages for either an entry stamp or visa. As a general rule, please check that your passport has six months validity beyond your planned trip, and if not, please renew your passport with plenty of time to provide Solos with your updated passport information by the final payment due date.

Not sure what travel documents you need? Our trusted partner, sherpa°, makes it easy to check visa and entry requirements based on your destination and passport. One quick check now means smooth sailing later. Click here to learn more.

Health Requirements
We recommend that you check if vaccinations are required for your destination at the CDC’s recommendations for your visited destination(s). We also recommend you purchase travel protection. A travel protection plan can often assist with medical emergencies and reimburse costs that are covered by the plan. Please verify coverage details with Solos before you travel.
 

 
Transfer Time
The transfer time from Lisbon Airport to the hotel is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on weather and traffic.

Rated as Excellent (4.8/5) by our customers

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Fantastic time

I’ve recently returned from my first Solos trip and had a fantastic time. I can honestly say that I enjoyed every minute, and the memories will last a lifetime.
-Patricia

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Highly Recommended

I’d highly recommend Solos to people looking to travel on their own with a group of like minded people.
-David

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Brilliant Week!

We laughed until our bellies ached. It was such a brilliant week.
-Janev

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Go for it!

I still get a bit nervous but this will be my third time with Solos and its one of the best decisions I have ever made- everyone is so friendly, just go for it!!
-Jane

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