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Activity Lisbon, Portugal

Private Tour to Defensive Lines of Torres, Mafra & Ericeira

5.0 (8 reviews) 8–9 hours Free cancellation Private tour
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Private Tour to Defensive Lines of Torres, Mafra & Ericeira

About this activity

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.

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At a glance

Duration
8–9 hours
Confirmation
Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Your group only
People per booking
1–4
Guide
Portuguese, English
Operated by
EpiTravels Portugal

Ages: Children (0–12 years) · Adults (13–100 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: All Fees and Taxes
  • Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle

Not included

  • Not included: Entrance fees - Mafra National Palace (adult), Palacio Nacional de Mafra
  • Not included: Entrance fees - Mafra National Palace (children 13+), Palacio Nacional de Mafra

Itinerary

  1. Centro de Interpretacao das Linhas de Torres

    one hour

    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

    30 min

    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

    30 min

    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

    1 h 30 min Admission 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

    30 min

    Visit the Fort from the second defense line which is closest to the coast.

  6. Ericeira

    1 h 30 min

    Stroll around this picturesque old town and its wonderful beaches which are also considered the Surf capital of Portugal.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

  • HI Oeiras – Pousada de Juventude
  • Motel Mood - Private Suites
  • TRYP by Wyndham Montijo Parque Hotel
  • Motel 7even
  • Casa da Terrinha
  • Estalagem Quinta do Rio
  • Pousada Castelo Palmela
  • Palmela Village Golf Resort
  • Hotel Varandazul
  • B&B HOTEL Sado Setubal
  • Hotel Real Oeiras
  • Hotel Solar Palmeiras

and 379 more pickup points

Ask for other pick up areas

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%
  • The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
  • The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

  • 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

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · 8 reviews
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Private Tour to Defensive Lines of Torres, Mafra & Ericeira

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