Private Tour to Defensive Lines of Torres, Mafra & Ericeira

5.0 (8 reviews) Lisbon, Portugal
Duration8h - 9h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesPortuguese, English
Private tourOnly your group will participate
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

After the second invasion of Portugal by Napoleon’s army in 1809, the British army, Portugal’s ally, led by Arthur Wellesley (later Duke of Wellington) designed three defensive lines of 152 fortresses 40 km around Lisbon to prevent another invasion which eventually happened. This magnificent strategic work can be seen today in some sites and better understood in one of the six interpretation centers. Visit this mountainous green region to witness history. The third invasion of Portugal defeat is said to have led towards Waterloo’s finale by Napoleon. Next visit the majestic Mafra National Palace which was turned into the French headquarters, but mostly it is the top baroque building in Portugal. Finish your day passing by the Zambujal Fortress heading towards Ericeira, the west coast pearl, famous for surfing, its picturesque center and amazing views to the Atlantic coast.

Optionally add a Wine Tasting in a local winery.

What's included

  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Entrance fees - Mafra National Palace (adult), Palacio Nacional de Mafra
  • Entrance fees - Mafra National Palace (children 13+), Palacio Nacional de Mafra

What to expect

  1. Centro de Interpretacao das Linhas de Torres
    1h
    In this Interpretation Center, visitors will get the first general context from the French Invasions of Portugal with maps, texts, audios and exhibition of artifacts.
  2. Circuito do Alqueidao
    30m
    Visit the most important Fort from Wellington's first line of defense and also the Command Post, set up in a hill with a magnificent view around of the hills and countryside.
  3. Serra do Socorro
    30m
    Visit Wellington's telegraph, the method used to communicate with flags to the forts and the ships in the ocean.
  4. Palacio Nacional de Mafra
    1h 30m · Admission ticket not included
    Visit Mafra National Palace, the impressive barroque building from the 18th century that houses one of oldest and most beautiful libraries in Europe.
  5. Forte do Zambujal
    30m
    Visit the Fort from the second defense line which is closest to the coast.
  6. Ericeira
    1h 30m
    Stroll around this picturesque old town and its wonderful beaches which are also considered the Surf capital of Portugal.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

Ask for other pick up areas

Additional information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (8)
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€190.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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