4.7
(3)
143
riders
24
rides
Touring cycling around Santa Maria Dos Olivais offers routes through a region rich in historical context and diverse landscapes, predominantly centered near Tomar, Portugal. The area features natural green spaces like the Seven Hills National Forest and is influenced by the River Nabão, a tributary of the Zêzere. Cyclists can explore a mix of historical landmarks and accessible natural areas, blending cultural discovery with physical activity. The terrain includes varied elevations and quiet country roads suitable for touring.
Last updated: October 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
10
riders
43.6km
02:49
540m
540m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
7
riders
50.3km
03:10
490m
490m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.

8
riders
42.7km
03:41
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
9
riders
49.0km
03:09
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4
riders
23.3km
01:33
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Bit of uphill walking to get there.
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Wow, they've really gone all out there, a very large facility.
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Closes at 4pm (May 25), the courtyard has been kindly opened until 5pm.
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The Praça da República and the Igreja Matriz de São João Baptista are the historical and cultural heart of Tomar, a city deeply linked to the history of the Knights Templar in Portugal. This square is the nerve center of Tomar, surrounded by historic buildings and offering a charming atmosphere.
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The Templar Castle was built at a strategic point to defend the territory and support the conquest beyond the Tagus River. Construction began in 1160 under the Templar Master D. Gualdim Pais. The north wing and higher ground housed the Templar Palace, with two pillars: to the east and at its highest point, the citadel with its rectangular control tower, and to the west, the fortified religious temple—the Templar Charola. Several towers and turrets are located along the extensive wall. The entire outer perimeter of this wall was protected by a rampart—a stone wall simulating a hill at the base, thus impeding the advance of assault engines, sentinels, and climbers. The wall, towers, and quadrangular and semicircular turrets contain rectilinear loopholes and broad battlements. The various military-architectural solutions undoubtedly originate from the Middle East, where King Gualdim Pais stayed for five years during the Crusades. The Charola was probably built or completed shortly after the fortifications and is intended to commemorate the Holy Sepulchre and Solomon's Temple. This castle was also the headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal. https://opctj.pt/castelo-templario-charola-e-convento-de-cristo-de-tomar/ The castle complex, with its walls and extensive gardens, is open to the public free of charge.
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The main shopping street in the old center of Tomar, lined with attractive buildings with cafes, restaurants and shops.
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The Church of Saint John the Baptist (Portuguese: Igreja de São João Baptista) was built between the 15th and 16th centuries by King Manuel I in the Manueline style. As its name suggests, the church is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. The church features many interesting artistic details, such as the flamboyant Gothic portal, the Manueline tower with a 16th-century clock, the decorated capitals of the interior columns of the nave, and several panels painted in the 1530s by one of Portugal's most important Renaissance artists, Gregório Lopes.
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There are over 25 touring cycling routes available around Santa Maria Dos Olivais, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists.
The touring cycling routes in Santa Maria Dos Olivais are generally categorized as moderate to difficult. There are 9 moderate routes and 17 difficult routes, making it suitable for cyclists with some experience.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Santa Maria Dos Olivais are circular. For example, you can explore the Castelo de Bode Dam – Republic Square, Tomar loop from Tomar or the Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes – Aqueduto dos Pegões loop from Tomar, both offering scenic loops.
The region is rich in history. You can cycle past significant sites such as the Convent of Christ and Castle of Tomar, the Aqueduto dos Pegões, and the Republic Square and the Church of Saint John the Baptist, Tomar. The Church of Santa Maria do Olival itself is a pivotal historical site for the Knights Templar.
Absolutely. The region features natural green spaces like the Seven Hills National Forest. You can experience this on routes such as the Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes – Aqueduto dos Pegões loop from Tomar, which leads through the Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes.
The touring cycling routes in Santa Maria Dos Olivais are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Over 140 touring cyclists have explored the varied terrain, often praising the blend of historical discovery and physical activity.
Yes, for experienced riders looking for longer distances, the Tomar Town Hall – Republic Square, Tomar loop from Tomar covers 31.9 miles (51.3 km) and winds through the historic Tomar region. Another challenging option is the Tomar Town Hall loop from Tomar, which is 26.9 miles (43.3 km) long with significant elevation gain.
Yes, the River Nabão is a significant natural feature in the area. While specific routes directly along its banks aren't detailed, the region's cycling opportunities are influenced by its presence, and routes around Tomar will often be in proximity to this river, a tributary of the Zêzere.
Yes, there are 9 moderate touring cycling routes available. An example is the Aqueduto dos Pegões – Mouchão Park loop from Tomar, which is 14.5 miles (23.4 km) long and offers a less strenuous option while still exploring key attractions.
While specific seasonal data isn't provided, Portugal generally offers pleasant cycling conditions in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) with milder temperatures. Summer can be hot, and winter might bring more rain, though routes are generally accessible year-round.
Many routes offer scenic views, particularly those that traverse varied elevations. The Church of Santa Maria do Olival itself offers views towards the Convent of Christ and the Templar Castle. Routes like the Castelo de Bode Dam – Republic Square, Tomar loop from Tomar feature views towards the impressive Castelo de Bode Dam.
The duration varies depending on the route's length and difficulty. For instance, the Castelo de Bode Dam – Republic Square, Tomar loop from Tomar typically takes around 2 hours 50 minutes, while the Aqueduto dos Pegões – Mouchão Park loop from Tomar can be completed in about 1 hour 33 minutes.


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