The historic town of Obidos in Portugal has been turned into a chocolate lovers dream with its annual chocolate festival. The event is due to come to an on 24th February 2008 but will take place all over again next year. Obidos is a picturesque village near the popular Silver Coast. This small town, about 75 kilometers north of Lisbon is circled by a wall and was once a stronghold with its own castle. In the 13th century it was given to Queen Isabel as a gift by her husband, King Dinis, after she remarked on its beauty. From the center of town you can see for kilometers in all directions. There are vineyards, terracotta roofs and homes, and windmills all about.
At the heart of the town, and at the top of the hill, is the Obidos Castle. Built in Portugal’s own unique Manueline style, the old fort now serves as a guest house. The streets of the town are narrow and ancient, which few cars are able to make their way through. This makes it an ideal place to visit on foot, and the many shops and craftsmen have plenty to offer. Spring is the perfect time to visit Obidos as it comes alive with flowers. Geraniums, morning glories and bougainvilleas light up the streets with colors and scents.
While spring has its flowers, now (February) is the time for the Obidos Chocolate Festival. Dedicated to all things chocolate, this is a chocolate lover’s dream. Incredible chocolate sculptures, recipes and classes are all here for you to see and take part in. This is one of the most important cultural and gastronomic events in the west coast of Portugal, with an estimated 200,000 visitors this year. Tickets are priced at only five euros and children under 12-years-old enter for free. The event ends the 24th, but it is held at annually and there is often one in the fall as well.
Obidos is also the home to the Bom Sucesso Resort, one of the most unique developments anywhere in the world. This luxury resort is being developed around a golf course and several other sporting activities. The homes are all being designed by some of the most noted architects in the world, including David Chipperfield and Alvaro Siza Viera.
This little Portuguese town has plenty to offer, so take a look today.
