Medieval Portugal hiking vacation

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION
We are committed to offering low impact vacations, which benefits the countries and communities we visit, as well as our travelers. As most of the time on our tours is spent exploring on foot, it is important that our staff, local partners and customers are aware of the delicate balance that exists in the places we visit.

We are also dedicated to promoting sensible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimise our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

We believe that the best things come in small packages and limit our groups to a maximum of 18 persons, plus the tour Leader, so that everyone has the opportunity to mix, share their love of travel and return home with new friendships. Small groups also have less detrimental local impact, allows us to use public transport on some days, eat at small local restaurants, which offers a better overall experience.

The Hotel dos Templarios has received the “We Care” Environmental Sustainability Seal from the Hotel Association of Portugal’s HOSPES program, which recognises hotels that implement social and environmental practices aimed at responsible growth and sustainability. You'll enjoy buffet breakfasts at the hotel, usually in the Terrace dining room. Lunches are not included but are usually taken as picnics brought from local shops, bakeries or cafes. Dinners are taken in local restaurants, a perfect way to discover the Ribatejo area.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE
We operate a ‘leave no trace’ policy in national parks, archaeological sites, monuments and other sensitive areas like beaches and coastlines; these should be treated with the ultimate respect to maintain them for future generations. Our tour leaders are trained to promote this message to our customers during the vacation.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY
We provide ample opportunity to explore the local areas on foot, where you can shop for local wares and crafts and immerse yourselves into the rich cultural heritage of the destination. To enhance your experience, as well as your tour leader, each vacation will be accompanied by a well qualified and knowledgeable English-speaking local guide.

Visiting historical sites, churches or museums are much more rewarding with a local guide. They give an insight to the local culture, language and traditions and can bring a destination alive. Many of our vacations include a knowledgeable English speaking guide on at least one of the days. Please refer to your daily itinerary to see where a guide is included.

When taking reservations for groups in local restaurants, it is the policy of some restaurateurs to offer one set menu, served to everyone at the table (with the exception of vegetarians, vegans and gluten free). Vegetarian and vegan options are often available, though menus may vary by location, so we recommend checking and letting us know in advance to ensure dietary requirements can be accommodated. Portuguese dishes are usually created using locally sourced fresh ingredients, and from homemade traditional recipes shared between family generations.

Your local guide has extensive knowledge of the area you are staying in, so the local restaurants chosen by your local guide are usually smaller and family run, serving traditional homemade Portuguese food and used by locals. They may not be typical tourist restaurants, but they will usually be traditional and simple restaurants run by a local family found in a quieter road away from the tourist route. Eating in local restaurants allows you to enjoy an authentic experience in a casual traditional Portuguese restaurant, with a lively atmosphere along with local diners and the Portuguese hospitality.



EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY & DIVERSITY
We are committed to responsible and sustainable travel practices that support both the local environment and surrounding communities. By selecting environmentally conscious accommodation, encouraging reduced waste, and prioritising sustainable transport where possible, we aim to minimise our footprint. Through respectful engagement and conscious travel choices, we strive to protect natural landscapes while delivering enriching and memorable experiences.

Our walking tours are thoughtfully designed to immerse guests in local heritage and culture, building meaningful connections with the places and people we visit - including the employment of local tour guides. As a company we believe in workplace diversity and equal employment, with opportunities available to everybody regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation or nationality.