Almoural Castle

Almourol Castle, located near Tomar in Portugal, is a captivating medieval fortress that sits atop a small island in the middle of the Tagus River. Visiting this historic gem is like stepping back in time, as it offers a truly immersive experience into Portugal’s rich past.

As you approach Almourol Castle, you’ll be struck by its picturesque setting. The castle stands majestically on a rocky outcrop, surrounded by tranquil waters and lush greenery. The only way to reach the castle is by a short boat ride, which adds an element of adventure to your visit.

Once you step foot on the island and enter the castle’s gates, you’ll find yourself transported to the 12th century. Almourol Castle was originally constructed by the Knights Templar, a medieval Christian military order, and later played a significant role in Portugal’s history during the Reconquista against the Moors.

The castle’s architecture is a stunning blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its stone walls, imposing towers, and battlements create an atmosphere of grandeur and mystery. As you explore the interior, you’ll discover a central courtyard, a small chapel, and various rooms that offer glimpses into the castle’s past. Climb up to the towers, and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the river and the distant hills.

Almourol Castle’s location on an island also adds to its charm. The serene surroundings make it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. You can take a leisurely stroll along the island’s perimeter, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and observing the local flora and fauna.

The castle is well-preserved and maintained, thanks to ongoing restoration efforts. The information boards and guided tours available at the site provide valuable insights into the castle’s history and significance. Additionally, the staff is knowledgeable and eager to share stories and answer any questions you may have.

If you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply appreciate the beauty of medieval castles, Almourol Castle is a must-visit destination. It offers a unique experience that combines a boat trip, an exploration of a medieval fortress, and a serene natural setting. Prepare to be enchanted by the castle’s charm and to immerse yourself in the rich history of Portugal.

Visit Notes

Our visit to the castle was a bit of an adventure. The gps gave us directions to the castle from Tomar and we set off. It sent us on an unnamed one-track dirt road down the side of a large hill and then back up the other side. I swear I could hear banjos playing. I seriously doubted the gps, but it did eventually get us to the parking area by the dock.

The castle sits on an island in the river, so you need to catch a boat across. We were there fairly late in the day and were able to hop on a boat that was sitting there waiting. It only took a couple of minutes to get across the water and the boat ride was quite pleasant. The boat captain dropped us off and told us he’d be back in half an hour. I have to say, I was more than a little skeptical and thought we might end up spending the night out there.

It appeared we had the castle to ourselves (along with some chickens), so we set off to explore. I love this castle. It’s in the perfect state of decrepitude. We had an amazing time exploring… until we walked into a room and found a couple, ahem, “having relations”. So that was exciting. We quickly left them alone and a minute later they exited, red-faced, and ran to the dock. It was an awkward ride back to the parking lot with them.

Long story short, this castle is well worth the time it takes to get there. Hopefully your visit is slightly less “eventful” than ours.