Fátima Eastern Way

The route officially begins in the historic city of Tomar, specifically from the urban setting on the banks of the River Nabão. Parking is generally available in Tomar, but it's advisable to check local parking options depending on where you plan to start within the city.

While there are no explicit restrictions against dogs, the route is long and challenging. If hiking with a dog, ensure it is well-behaved, accustomed to long distances, and that you carry enough water for both of you. Always keep your dog on a leash, especially when passing through villages, near livestock, or on shared paths.

The best months for walking the Paths of Fátima, including the Tomar Route, are typically spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these periods, the weather is generally milder and more pleasant for hiking, avoiding the intense heat of summer and the potentially wetter, colder conditions of winter.

No, you do not need a permit or have to pay any entrance fees to hike the Tomar Route — Paths of Fátima. It is a public pilgrimage path.

The terrain is diverse and challenging. It features a mix of rural roads and paths, transitioning from urban settings to more rugged, natural environments. You'll encounter old villages, gardens, fields, and later enter the Extremadura karst massif, with vigorous and rugged hills and valleys characterized by limestone formations. The route avoids busy thoroughfares, primarily using dirt tracks and small rural roads.

Along this route, you'll encounter several significant landmarks. Notable points include the 17th-century Aqueduto dos Pegões, which the path follows. As you approach Fátima, you'll pass the Church of the Baptism of Saints Francisco and Jacinta before reaching the spiritual destination of the Sanctuary of Fátima.

Yes, as part of the larger Fátima Walking Routes network, essential services such as food, water, and accommodation can be found along the Tomar Route. These services are typically available in the villages and towns you pass through, catering to pilgrims and hikers.

The Paths of Fátima, including the Tomar Route, are generally marked with blue arrows. However, it's important to note that the consistency of these markings can vary in some sections. It's always recommended to carry a map or use a GPS device for navigation, such as the komoot app, to ensure you stay on track.

Tomar is well-connected by public transport. You can typically reach Tomar from major Portuguese cities like Lisbon by train or bus. Once in Tomar, the starting points of the route are accessible within the city.

The Tomar Route holds profound spiritual and cultural significance as it serves as a pilgrimage path to the Sanctuary of Fátima, one of the most important Marian pilgrimage sites in the world. Hikers on this route are following in the footsteps of thousands of pilgrims, immersing themselves in centuries of history, culture, and faith.

Yes, the Tomar Route is part of a larger network of pilgrimage trails. It intersects with sections of the Caminho de Fátima Nascente and the Caminhos de Fátima, among others, as it makes its way towards the Sanctuary of Fátima.