The “Best Tourism Villages 2024” award, granted by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (WTO), is an award, valid for three years, that highlights rural locations with less than 15 thousand inhabitants, which maintain traditional activities such as agriculture , forestry, livestock or fishing and preserve community values and local ways of life, as well as their historical heritage. According to Turismo de Portugal, the town of Óbidos represents “territory where tourism plays a crucial role in sustainable economic and social development”. She was, therefore, selected for this award, with the official announcement to be made on November 14, during a ceremony held in Colombia, where the 55 winners of this edition were presented, reveals the .
Recognition of sustainable tourism
In addition to valuing rural heritage and local communities, the award increases the international visibility of these regions. The distinction was received with enthusiasm by the respective city hall, which sees it as recognition of the work carried out towards sustainability and preservation of heritage.
The mayor of Óbidos, Philip Danielquoted by the newspaper Expressexpressed the pride of the community: “It is a clear recognition that we are committed to defending our identity and historical heritage, being another reason for pride for the people of Óbidos and for everyone who has worked to preserve the identity of Óbidos as a unique destination and international reference in sustainable tourism.”
Other locations already distinguished
Óbidos thus joins other Portuguese locations that, in previous editions, also received the “Best Tourism Villages” award, including: Ericeira, Madalena, Manteigas, Sortelha, Castelo Novo, Castelo Rodrigo and Cumeada. This recognition reinforces the relevance of Portugal as a sustainable tourist destination, valuing the natural and cultural heritage of its regions.
Óbidos: History, charm and tradition
Strategically located at a high point and close to the Atlantic coast, Óbidos has had significant importance throughout history. Inhabited before the arrival of the Romans on the Iberian Peninsula, the village prospered especially from the moment it was chosen by the royal family. In the 13th century, King D. Dinis offered Óbidos to his wife, D. Isabel, and she became part of the Casa das Rainhas. Over the course of several dynasties, the queens took care of the town, enriching it and leaving a visible legacy to this day, as is evident in the number of churches found in this small town.
Within its walls, Óbidos offers visitors a well-preserved castle, surrounded by a labyrinth of narrow streets and white houses that captivate everyone who walks there. Between Manueline porticos, windows decorated with flowers and picturesque squares, the town is an invitation to discover. The examples of religious and civil architecture stand out, evoking the times of greatest splendor of Óbidos.
Óbidos is a perfect suggestion to visit at any time of year, according to the website. The love stories that surround it and its medieval atmosphere make it ideal for a romantic weekend or for moments of tranquility. For an even more unforgettable experience, staying the night in the castle could be the ideal choice, offering a fairytale setting.
Local cuisine is another reason to visit. Fish stew from Lagoa de Óbidos is an unmissable traditional dish, even more appreciated when accompanied by wines from the West Demarcated Region. And, of course, you can’t leave Óbidos without trying the famous Ginjinha de Óbidos, served in several places, preferably in a chocolate cup, which adds a special touch to the experience.
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