Visit Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes (Seven Hills National Forest)
Table of Contents
The Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes (Seven Hills National Forest) is an important nature reserve in Tomar, Portugal. Part of the city’s extensive parks and forests, this forest in Tomar is a haven for flora and fauna.
It possesses stunning beauty and majestic scenery and is also steeped in the history and culture of the region. Along its trails and paths, one can find various artefacts and monuments, such as the Casa de Fresco frescoes and the works of Spanish artist João de Castilho, making a walk through these areas a fascinating and educational experience for tourists and nature lovers.
Tourist Information
The National Forest of the Seven Hills, or Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes, in Tomar, Portugal, is a unique combination of natural and historical heritage. Situated on land that once belonged to the Order of Christ, the forest is linked to the history of the order and its monastery, which played a key role in Portuguese history. Today, the forest is the main green park in Tomar and an area for outdoor activities and discovery.
The history of the forest stretches back through the centuries, from the time of the knights’ hunting grounds to the modern national park. It serves not only as a place of recreation and entertainment but also as an important refuge for a variety of plant and animal species, emphasizing the importance of conservation.
Visitors can enjoy hiking the scenic trails of the forest, exploring historical artefacts and monuments, and relaxing at picnic areas. For those interested in cultural heritage, the forest offers a visit to Charoligny, a place to learn about the region’s traditional olive oil production.
The best time to visit is in spring and fall when the weather is pleasant for walks and picnics. It is important to consider the mode of operation and availability of services, especially for picnics or visiting local attractions.
In summary, the National Parks in Tomar invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and natural wealth of Portugal, enjoy the beauty of the forest and spend time outdoors in the heart of Tomar.
Interesting Facts
- History of the forest: The first mention of the National Forest of the Seven Hills dates back to the 15th century when it was part of the possessions of the Order of Christ. It officially became part of the enclosure of the Convent of Christ in the 16th century, under the reign of João III.
- Management and changes over time: After the abolition of religious orders in 1834, the enclosure of the Convent of Christ was sold at auction and passed into private hands. In 1936 it was returned to the state and in 1938 it was converted into a forest park. In 1986 forests in Tomar were included in the National Parks, Reserves and Conservation Service.
- Local significance: The Forest is the central park of the town of Tomar and plays an important role in the lives of its residents. It is also known as Monastery Fence, as it was formerly used by monks for cultivation and solitude.
- World Heritage: The Seven Hills National Forest was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. This recognition highlights its historical and cultural value to Portugal and the world.
- Architectural features: In the forest area you can find “Charolinha”, a miniature church built in Renaissance style by the architect Casa de Fresco. This place served as a refuge and prayer place for monks, surrounded by beautiful nature.Natural treasures: The forest has a rich diversity of plant life, including centuries-old cypresses, oaks and olive trees. It covers an area of 39 hectares, making it a significant natural resource for the town and the region.
- Recreational Facilities: The National Garden in Tomar offers visitors many recreational opportunities. You can spend time hiking along the scenic trails, picnic with family and friends, and visit the playground for kids.
- Bridge Structures: Several bridges can be found in the Seven Hills National Forest, adding amazing charm and functionality to this park. These bridges give visitors access to different parts of the forest, crossing streams and rivers, and create an atmosphere of travel and discovery. One particularly famous bridge is the Stone Bridge, which leads to the “Charolinier”, a miniature church overlooking the pond and surrounded by greenery. These bridges are not only practical but also visually appealing, adding a unique artistic accent to the park’s landscape.
Open Hours
Seven Hills National Forest is open:
- Every day from 06:30 to 19:30
- From April to October from 08:30 to 17:30
The park is closed to the public only on holidays: January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1 and December 25.
Tickets
Admission to the Seven Hills National Forest is free to all!
Address
Address: Avenida Dr. Vieira Guimarães 1 2300, Tomar,
How to Get to Seven Hills National Forest
The best way to visit the Seven Hills National Forest and the city of Tomar is a day trip from Lisbon. There are two ways to reach the park from the Portuguese capital: by car (approximately 135 km by road) or by public transportation (2 hours by regional train or 1 hour 45 minutes by bus). Tomar is also an excellent stop on a trip through the Medio Tejo sub-region or the Santaren district.
