VIRGINIA MONTSOL | PORTUGAL TRIP

On the footsteps of Ginnie Dennistoun
02 - 06 OCT 2025
A Cultural and Romantic Journey Through Ribatejo and Beyond

Based on the book "A Inglesa e o Marialva" and with the participation of the writer Clara Macedo Cabral

A storybook trip taking you away to unrevealed places!
Join writer Clara Macedo Cabral (*) on a remarkable trip - a truly unique experience full of moments evoking images of enchanting stories and unexpected plots, while exploring charming villages, stunning natural landscapes, or discovering astonishing historical sites.. and feel like stepping into a fairy tale or discovering a hidden gem from history!
So, step outside your daily life, seek out lesser-known locations and allow yourself to be guided by experts on this immersive trip in captivating Portugal - as never seen before!

(*) Clara Macedo Cabral is a Portuguese writer and journalist living in London. With a background in Law from the University of Lisbon and a Master's in Comparative Literature from NOVA University Lisbon, she brings a sharp and reflective voice to contemporary Portuguese literature. Her books - ranging from memoirs and biographical novels to children's literature - explore themes of identity, migration, women's lives, and the cultural bridges between Portugal and the UK. With a unique blend of wit, emotional depth, and historical insight, Clara Macedo Cabral continues to be a powerful voice in Lusophone literature today.

Program

"From Lisbon's charm to the romance of Chamusca, the elegance of Golegã, and the secrets of Tomar"

02 OCT 2025: Arrival in Lisbon - City of Light and Legends

At given time:

• Arrival at Lisbon International Airport.
• Panoramic City Tour of Lisbon, including:
  • Alfama's winding alleys and views from Miradouro de Santa Luzia (if possible)
  • A stroll through Baixa Pombalina, rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake
  • Visit to Campo Pequeno Bullring (*)
  • Photo stop at Belém Tower and the Monastery of Jerónimos
  • Taste of the iconic Pastel de Belém

Evening:

• Welcome dinner at a traditional Portuguese restaurant with fado music. Step into the soul of Lisbon with an unforgettable Fado night - a powerful expression of Portuguese identity, emotion, and longing. In an intimate candlelit setting, hear the haunting melodies of the guitarra portuguesa and the raw, heartfelt voices of Fado singers as they share stories of love, loss, and saudade. Recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Fado is a strong renewed living tradition. Savor a traditional Portuguese dinner as the music carries you into the very heart of Portugal's spirit.
• Overnight stay in Lisbon @ @ HOTEL 4* - Name TBC

(*) Campo Pequeno is a historic venue in Lisbon, originally opened in 1892 as a bullring. Designed in a neo-Moorish architectural style, it features striking red-brick façades and elegant domes, making it a notable example of 19thcentury architecture. Today, Campo Pequeno has been transformed into a versatile cultural hub. Of special interest is the Campo Pequeno Museum, a small but thoughtfully curated space that explores the history of the building, Portuguese traditions, and the evolution of public entertainment. Even for visitors who do not support bullfighting, the museum offers insight into Lisbon's social and architectural history. Whether for the architecture, cultural events, or shopping and dining, Campo Pequeno remains a fascinating stop on any Lisbon itinerary.

03 OCT 2025: Santarém & Chamusca - A Love Story in the Heart of Ribatejo

Morning:

• Departure from Lisbon to Santarém, capital of Gothic architecture in Portugal.
• Visit to the Porta do Sol Garden with views over the Tagus River.
• Brief stop at the Church of São João de Alporão or Igreja da Graça
• Continue to the picturesque village of Chamusca, where Englishwoman Ginnie Dennistoun once found love and inspiration.
• Visit the Coreto da Vila, heart of local gatherings.
• Ermida de Nossa Senhora do Pranto - a serene spot with a panoramic view of the Ribatejo plains.

Lunch:

• Authentic Ribatejo lunch at Casal do Vale Formoso, a private estate.
  • Experience regional dishes in a warm atmosphere hosted by a local family.

Afternoon:

• Visit to Casalinho do Bonfim, where Ginnie and her beloved, Alberto Luíz Lopes, once lived.
  • Explore their romantic home and horse-training grounds.
  • Walk to the Ermida do Senhor do Bonfim, the highest point of Chamusca, overlooking two distinct landscapes: the fertile lezíria and the dry charneca.

Evening:

• Overnight at the elegant HOTEL LUSITANO 4*, where tradition meets comfort.

04 OCT 2025: Equestrian Elegance & Knights of the Tagus

Morning:

• Visit to Golegã, the horse capital of Portugal:
  • Stroll through the historic village where Lusitano horses reign.
  • Visit Casa-Estúdio Carlos Relvas: a unique 19th-century building that served as both a residence and a state-of-the-art photographic studio. It was designed by the renowned photographer Carlos Relvas to accommodate his passion for photography and his innovative approach to the art form. The building is notable for its architectural fusion of iron, glass, and traditional materials, reflecting the Romantic style of the era. It features a ground floor with laboratories and darkrooms, while the upper floor houses a spacious gallery with large windows, allowing for optimal natural lighting - crucial for Relvas's photographic work. A sophisticated system of curtains, operated by ropes and pulleys, enabled precise control of light exposure.

Afternoon:

• Drive to Tomar, city of the Knights Templar.
• Visit the magnificent Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Guided tour through the Charola, cloisters, and Manueline window.
• Scenic drive to Castelo de Almourol, a fairy-tale castle on an island in the Tagus River.
  • Short boat ride to reach the castle. (if possible)
  • Guided tour exploring its Templar origins and strategic importance.

Evening:

• Dinner and overnight at Hotel Lusitano

05 OCT 2025: Wellington's Legacy and Key Defence System

Morning:

• Travel to Torres Vedras to explore the Lines of Torres Vedras, a key defense system in the Peninsular War.
  • Guided visit to the Interpretation Center at Forte de São Vicente.
  • Walk through reconstructed fortifications and understand the British-Portuguese alliance against Napoleon.

Lunch / Wine Tasting:

• Wine Tasting / Brunch at local restaurant or winery in Torres Vedras area

Afternoon:

Private visit to a local beautiful eighteenth century farmhouse surrounded by centuries old trees from the 18th cent. with a small museum dedicated to the Peninsular War. During the first French invasion of Portugal from 1807-1808, Quinta da Póvoa served as strategic shelter for the Portuguese Royal Volunteer resistance. Situated at the foot of Monte Socorro (Wellington's Eagle's Nest), Quinta da Póvoa served as headquarters for General Sir Brent Spencer and his staff during the winter of 1810-11, at the time of the Lines of Torres Vedras. The property has always belonged to the original owners until the present day. They have preserved and maintained this historic heritage including all the antique arms and military curios from 200 years ago but perhaps more importantly the 18th century interior frescoes.

• View personal letters, weapons, and artifacts passed down through generations.
• Cheers! Toast with storytelling and historical insight in the company of descendants of families who hosted British troops during the Peninsular War.
• Drink a tea or taste a glass of Old Nosey an alcoholic drink that is both fruity and smoothy, with an intense aroma of mature pear. The distillation process is carried out in a copper pot still at Quinta da Povoa. Old Nosey is named after the nickname given to General Wellington.
• Transfer to Lisbon Coast for the last overnight @ HOTEL 4* - Name TBC

Lisbon Coast: Cascais & Estoril are sophisticated seaside resorts known for the beautiful beaches, the historic Casino Estoril, and its role as a glamorous getaway, especially during World War II. It offers a blend of relaxation and vibrant nightlife, with attractions like the casino, elegant hotels, golf courses, and a promenade connecting both towns.

06 OCT 2025: Farewell

Morning:

• Morning at leisure. (*)
• At given Time » Departure to Lisbon Airport.

(*) Before leaving for Lisbon airport and depending on your departure flight, we may be able to include:
a) a short detour to Cado da Roca - the westernmost point of continental Europe
b) or some free time in the historical city center of Sintra

Informations

Kindly review the following suggestions to enhance your stay with us:

Extension: we will be delighted to find the best Extension rates for your stay

Post-stay: in Lisbon or in another town of our beautiful country

Post Tours: possibility of having Optional Tours

• Kindly check information on next page

Add-ons: for instance:

• Horseback riding in Golegã or Chamusca.
• Wine tasting in a vineyard.
• River cruise along the Tagus near Golegã area or in Lisbon.

Net Rate in Euros, including the following services:

• Deluxe Tourism Coach for the whole trip
• English speaking local guide for the whole tour
• 1st and last overnight in Lisbon & Lisbon Coast with buffet breakfast included
• 02 overnights in Golegã at Hotel Lusitano & Spa 4* with buffet breakfast included
• 01 Dinner at Fado Restaurant (drinks included)
• 01 Dinner at Hotel Lusitano Restaurant (drinks included)
• 04 Entrance fees: 1 x Lisboa; 1 x Golegã; 1 x Tomar; 1 x Linhas de Torres
• Visit and Tasting at Adega Mãe winery
• Local City Taxes & VAT

REGISTRATION UNTIL 28th AUGUST

Kindly fill in the registration form and send it to incoming@lusanova.pt

Registration is only considered valid upon confirmation by Lusanova and full payment in accordance with the policy outlined below:

• 40% Deposit upon booking
• 60% Deposit until 15th Sept

Cancellation Policy:

• cancellations until 28th August - no fees will apply, and deposits made will be refunded
• cancellations after 28th August - 40% cancellation fee and deposit made will be retained
• cancellations after 15th Sept - 100% cancellation fee will apply

IMPORTANT REMARK

Trip may be cancelled in case the minimum number of participants is not achieved

Trip may still be operated with a reduced number of people, against a supplement to be charged; the amount of the surcharge will be informed upon request and according to the final number of guests

Optional Excursions

FD TOUR LISBON /SINTRA / CABO ROCA / CASCAIS/ LISBON

Enjoy a tour to the surroundings of Lisbon, head west to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and so-called fairy-tale town due to its hills, palaces and villas. With its picturesque landscape and opulent palaces, Sintra is one of the most renowned areas of Portugal. Visit Sintra National Palace, considered the best-preserved medieval royal palace in the country featuring a mixture of Gothic, Manueline, and Moorish. Free time for a stroll to check the flair of this beautiful town.
Then head to Cabo da Roca, which is a stunning cape forming the westernmost point of mainland Europe. The great Portuguese poet Luís de Camães once defined Cabo da Roca as the place "where the land ends and the sea begin". From here there is a wonderful view over the Atlantic.
Next stop is Cascais, a cosmopolitan suburb of Lisboa and one of the richest municipalities in Portugal. The former fishing village gained fame as a resort for Portugal's royal family in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Nowadays there is a large yacht harbour and several delightful sandy beaches in and around the town, in an area of about 15km long. Cascais has also become a popular golf destination, with over 10 golf courses. Feel the marine breeze as you walk in the bay before heading back to the capital, passing by the famous casino in Estoril.

FD TOUR LISBON / ÓBIDOS / NAZARÉ / BATALHA / FÁTIMA / LISBON

Departure towards Óbidos. Arriving in Óbidos - a walled medieval town replete with maze-like streets and historical houses - you'll have free time to enjoy the town's Gothic architecture. Then, either unwind at a café or head to one of the abundant wine shops to taste a classic Ginja liqueur.
Afterward, take a break for free lunch in Nazaré - a quaint fishing village, and enjoy classic Portuguese dishes before exploring the popular Portuguese vacation spot. Here, you'll absorb panoramic views of Portugal's rugged Atlantic coastline and capture numerous photographs.
After lunch, you will depart for Batalha to visit the masterpiece monastery in gothic style; last stop will be in Fátima - the most famous Marian shrine in Portugal.