A border point between Latvia and Estonia; Ainazi, Latvia, April 2023

In April 2023, while I was staying in Portugal, I took a side trip to the Baltic countries for five days. This trip was a dream come true, as I had always wanted to explore this part of Europe. I flew from Lisbon to Riga, the capital of Latvia, and rented a car to begin my adventure. Riga became my home for the next few days, and I was immediately captivated by the charm and history of the city.

Riga – A Breathtaking City

Riga, with its beautiful architecture, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere, was an incredible starting point for my Baltic journey. The city’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, full of cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and stunning Art Nouveau architecture. I explored the town hall square, admired the Riga Cathedral, and took in the breathtaking views along the Daugava River. It was hard not to fall in love with the energy of the place.

The Hill of Crosses – A Symbol of Faith in Lithuania

From Riga, I made my way to Lithuania and visited the Hill of Crosses (known in Lithuanian as Kryžių Kalnas), located near Šiauliai. This place was fascinating and strange, yet captivating in its own way. The Hill of Crosses is a pilgrimage site where thousands of crosses, large and small, have been placed by visitors over the years, symbolizing faith, hope, and resilience. As I walked around the hill, I felt a sense of reverence for the strong traditions and spirituality of the Lithuanian people.

On the way to the Hill of Crosses, I had the chance to admire the Lithuanian countryside, with its quaint villages and picturesque landscapes. The drive was scenic, with rolling fields and small towns, each with its own unique charm.

Exploring Estonia – Coastal Villages and Nordic Influence

After visiting Lithuania, I continued my journey northwards to Estonia, where I also enjoyed the freedom of traveling by car. The route was filled with beautiful sights, and I made stops in Ainaži and Treimani, two small coastal towns. Both places were quiet and peaceful, offering glimpses of the Baltic Sea and a sense of serenity.

The highlight of my trip to Estonia was visiting Parnawa, a lovely town on the coast. I spent most of the day there, enjoying its charming streets, wooden architecture, and the overall feeling of tranquility. The town felt like it had strong Nordic influences, with its traditional wooden houses and clean, minimalist designs. It was clear to me that this area had a rich historical connection to the Nordic countries, making it feel like a blend of Scandinavian and Baltic cultures.

A Delightful Stop in Liepupe Parish

On the way back to Riga, I made a stop in Liepupe parish, a rural area in Latvia. There, I had an unforgettable dinner in a traditional wooden Latvian hut, enjoying authentic Latvian cuisine. The meal was simple but delicious, and the rustic atmosphere added to the charm of the experience.

A Memorable Journey through the Baltic States

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Baltic countries—each country had its own distinct personality, but they also shared a common bond in their natural beauty, architectural styles, and warm, friendly people. The Baltic coast offered stunning landscapes, while the wooden architecture I encountered throughout my journey felt like a beautiful reflection of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

This trip only deepened my appreciation for the Baltic states, and I’m already looking forward to returning and exploring even more of this fascinating part of Europe.

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Obidos, Portugal, April 2023

In April 2023, I spent my Easter between Portugal and the Baltic countries, and I was thrilled to be back in my Portuguese home. It was a special time to reconnect with both the familiar and the new, as I spent much of my time in the lovely town of Óbidos, as well as exploring nearby places.

Staying in Obidos and Exploring the Region

I started my time in Óbidos, a charming, medieval town that I’ve come to call home. It was wonderful to be back, enjoying the peaceful streets, historic architecture, and the lovely atmosphere of the town. I took the opportunity to explore the neighbouring towns by rental car, making it easy to discover some hidden gems in the surrounding areas:
• Foz do Arelho – A beautiful coastal town near the Atlantic Ocean, known for its stunning beaches and calm atmosphere. It was a perfect place to relax and soak in the coastal beauty.
• Vau – A quiet town, great for escaping to nature and appreciating the serenity of the countryside.
• Oeiras – A lovely area known for its scenic views, it was nice to stroll through this residential and peaceful neighbourhood.

A Special Easter – The Procession in Óbidos

One of the most unforgettable highlights of my time in Óbidos was the Easter procession, a deeply meaningful and unusual tradition in this small town. Easter in Óbidos is marked by religious rituals that have been passed down through generations, creating a sense of unity and reverence among the local community.

The Easter procession itself is a solemn yet vibrant event. On Easter Sunday, the streets of Óbidos are filled with locals, visitors, and participants dressed in traditional attire. The procession moves through the narrow cobblestone streets of this medieval town, creating a stunning visual backdrop with the whitewashed walls, colorful flowers, and ancient chapels.

What stood out to me was the sense of history and tradition that infused the entire experience. As the procession proceeded, I could hear the chanting, the bells ringing, and the soft sounds of the community coming together in reverence. There was a palpable sense of devotion and reflection, as well as a connection to the generations before.

One of the most poignant moments was when the statue of Christ was carried through the streets, with the crowd following in a slow, reverent procession. The solemnity of the occasion was balanced by a sense of community celebration, as families gathered, candles in hand, to mark the sacred holiday.

For me, participating in this procession was a reminder of the deep-rooted traditions in Óbidos and how Easter in this small town is more than just a religious observance—it’s a celebration of community, faith, and heritage.

Visiting Figueira da Foz and Quiaios

I also ventured northwards to visit Figueira da Foz and Quiaios, where my friends live. Kasia’s boyfriend’s family resides in this area, and it was a lovely visit. I enjoyed the beauty of these coastal towns, as well as the warm hospitality of my friends and their families.
• Figueira da Foz is known for its long sandy beaches and vibrant coastal atmosphere. It was refreshing to walk along the promenade and enjoy the fresh sea air.
• Quiaios is a quieter village with a more tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and taking in the natural beauty of the region.

A Visit to Lisbon

While in Portugal, I couldn’t miss a trip to Lisbon. As always, Lisbon never fails to impress. The charming neighbourhoods, the historic buildings, and the stunning views over the Tagus River are always a treat. Whether wandering through the Alfama district, visiting Belém Tower, or enjoying a pasteis de nata at a café, Lisbon is a city that never grows old, and it’s always a pleasure to return.

A Memorable Easter Journey

Spending Easter in Portugal was a beautiful way to reconnect with home, explore the surrounding regions, and immerse myself in the local culture. The visit to Óbidos, particularly the Easter procession, and the time spent with friends in Figueira da Foz and Quiaios made this trip one I will always remember. It was a perfect balance of tradition, beauty, and community.

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