Porto De Mós

From Alcobaça head north on the N8. If time permits, consider a 5-kilometer detour to the ancient town of Porto de Mós (turn right at Cruz da Legua). It has a fabulous small fortified castle sitting on an isolated hill overlooking the River Lena, its handsome lines lending it a distinctly French appearance. It was originally built as a fortress in the 9th century, but was remodeled in the 15th for use as a palace. The National Agency for Historical Monuments has recently restored it. Unique green tiles on the towers shimmer in the sun, creating a striking vision.