Discovering Ginja de Óbidos: The Sweet of a Medieval Village

---

At Villa’s Pomar do Moinho, we believe that discovering the Silver Coast is more than just admiring the scenery—it’s about savoring the traditions that define this land.

And few flavors capture the essence of the region as well as Ginja de Óbidos, the ruby-red liqueur that has become a symbol of hospitality, authenticity, and local pride.

A Sip of History: The Origins of Ginja de Óbidos

The history of Ginja (or Ginjinha, as it's also known) dates back centuries. Made from the ginja, a tart and fragrant cherry that grows in the hills of the West, this liqueur was born from the wisdom and curiosity of local monks.

Legend has it that in the 17th century, monks began experimenting with sour cherry infusions in brandy, creating a sweet, slightly bitter drink used as both medicine and pleasure. Over time, the recipe left the convents and became a family tradition—passed down from generation to generation, always with a special touch from each producer.

In 1987, Dário Pimpão, founder of the Oppidum Ginja de Óbidos brand, took this tradition to another level. Producing artisanal liqueur with locally grown sour cherries, he transformed a regional custom into an internationally recognized product. Today, Oppidum is synonymous with the best Ginja de Óbidos and a source of pride for the region.

A Protected Tradition and a Cultural Symbol

Ginja de Óbidos has a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) under the name “Ginja de Óbidos e Alcobaça”.

This ensures that only liqueurs produced with local sour cherries and traditional methods can use the name, preserving the authenticity and quality that make it unique.

One of the most charming traditions is serving it in chocolate cups—an irresistible combination of the intense flavor of the ginja and the sweetness of the cocoa.

Whether "com ginja" (with the fruit) or "sem ginja" (without the fruit), each sip is a celebration of the Obidense soul.

The Importance of Ginja in the Local Community

More than just a liqueur, Ginja is part of the region's identity and economy.

Cultural Ambassador

Strolling through the cobblestone streets of Óbidos and tasting a Ginjinha is part of any visitor's ritual. In the shops and stalls along Rua Direita, each producer has their own secret recipe—some sweeter, some fruitier, all with a special touch.

Support for Local Agriculture

The sour cherry trees surrounding Óbidos support local farmers and producers, keeping tradition and biodiversity alive. Most of the sour cherries used in the best bottles are harvested within a 20 km radius of the village.

Symbol of Celebration

From Medieval Fairs to Christmas, Ginja is present in every moment of conviviality.

Taking a bottle home means taking home a piece of the region's history and affection.

Ginja Tasting Itinerary Óbidos

If you're visiting the village, follow this short Ginja tasting tour — a route that combines flavor, history and tradition.

1 - Town Gate – The First Sip

Start at Porta da Vila, the main entrance to Óbidos. Just past the tiled oratory, you'll find stalls selling Ginja liqueur served in chocolate cups—the perfect start to the experience.

Tip: Try one “with ginja” and another “without ginja” to notice the difference..

2 - Rua Direita – The Heart of Tradition

Go up Rua Direita, full of little shops and chocolate aromas.

🍷  Bar Ibn Errik Rex – One of the oldest taverns, with a medieval atmosphere.

🍫 Ginjinha d’Óbidos – Famous for its handmade chocolate cups.

🍒  Oppidum Boutique – A modern space where you can learn about and taste the real Óbidos liqueur.

3 - Oppidum Factory - The Final Origin

Just a few minutes away by car or bike, in Sobral da Lagoa, is the Oppidum Ginja d’Óbidos Factory. Here you can learn about the artisanal maceration and aging process—and, of course, taste Ginja in the place where it's made.

📍 Address: Sobral da Lagoa, Óbidos

🕰️ Visits: Please confirm opening times before your visit, as they vary depending on the season.

4 - Praça de Santa Maria - Final Obrinde

End your tour at Praça de Santa Maria, the heart of the village.Sit in a café, order a glass of Ginja, and enjoy the view of the castle at sunset—the perfect setting for a toast..

📸 Tip: Photograph the glass of Ginja against the white walls of Óbidos — the ideal contrast of the Silver Coast.

Map and How to Get to Óbidos from Villa's Pomar do Moinho

• Distance: 5 minutes by car (approx. 4.5 km).

• Route: Take the N114 towards Óbidos and park next to Porta da Vila.

• Parking: Free or paid in the parks outside the walls.

• Walk: Walk of about 50 minutes, ideal for those who enjoy nature and rural views.

As soon as you arrive, start your Ginja tour at Porta da Vila and let yourself be guided by the sweet aromas that fill the streets.

The Liquid of Óbidos

Ginja is more than a drink—it's the liquid soul of this land. It unites past and present, nature and art, visitor and resident. Each bottle tells a story of tradition and hospitality.

At Villa’s Pomar do Moinho, we invite you to toast this essence with us—with a cup of chocolate and a smile. Because every sip of Ginja is a celebration of life and the beauty of Óbidos.