Central Portugal base

The small town of Nadadouro was our base in Portugal during a stay in 2001. Ninety kilometers north of Lisbon, this area is ideally located for exploration of central Portugal, including the towns of Óbidos, Fátima, Nazaré, Tomar, Peniche, Sintra and all points north as far as Porto, a 2-hour drive.

We rented a condo, Casa Paula (Quinta da Boa Vista, 30 Nadadouro, 2500 Caldas da Rainha, Portugal; phone 351-262-978260, mobile phone 919-187-283 or e-mail davidclark@mail.telepac.pt). It had a large veranda overlooking Lagoa de Óbidos. The view of this lagoon and the Atlantic beyond was spectacular. David and Pauline Clarke, the owners, were gracious and helpful.

The condo was within walking distance of the little seaside town of Foz do Arelho with its beautiful beach — great for swimming and sunbathing.

The traditional market in Caldas da Rainha was interesting and the prices were geared to their local customers.

MICHAEL DRESSER
Anaheim, CA

In 2005, Casa Paula is available April-October. Rentals range from €320 to €480 (near $430-$650) per week for two people.