This tour explores why Sintra became the capital of Romanticism in the 19th century, avoiding typical tours. As we begin walking up we arrive at Vila Sassetti's gardens, a hidden gem near the centre, then ascend for panoramic views of the coastline near Mourish Castle. Entering Pena Palace park through the lake entrance, we encounter diverse wildlife amid stunning natural scenery. At Pena Palace, we admire the exterior, visit the chapel, and enjoy a break at the cafeteria. Moving to the High Cross for unique views, we then explore the eastern park towards the Chalet of the Countess. Descending through the park's farm area and leaving the Pena Park we head to Mourish Castle and pass landmarks like Hans Christian Andersen's house en route to the historical centre, concluding a challenging yet enriching journey with nearly 300m elevation gain with some traditional snacks.
Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ Snacks
✔ Entrance to the Chalet of the Countess
✔ Entrance to Pena Park
✔ Breakfast
✖ Entrance to Mourish Castle - 12 euros entrance for adults
✖ Entrance to Pena Palace 20 euros entrance for adults and slots have to be booked in advance
Departure & Return
Departure:
,
The meeting point is infront of the Palace by the stairs. From the trainstation it is a short walk of 10-15 minutes.
Return: End right where it started.
Itinerary
1
Centro Historico de Sintra
Our meeting point is here. First and foremost you will see the National Palace of Sintra from the outside as it is right in the middle of the historical centre of Sintra. We will walk around through some of the streets as we slowly head upwards.
2
Vila Sassetti
Along the path heading to highest point we will come across this little Palace hidden amidst the hills just above the centre. You will get a chance to admire the wonderful grounds with little ponds and exotic plants.
3
Park and National Palace of Pena
Once we reach the Pena park we will explore the park, where we will spend most of the tour. An emblematic park with exotic plants from around the world strive due to the different microclimates that this huge park of 88 hectares contains. The high cross, the highest point in Sintra is inside the park. We will also get a chance to explore the Palace from the outside, where we will get a chance to have a break to recharge as before exploring the rest of this romantic park.
Duration: 3 hours
4
Castelo dos Mouros
On our way back down to the historical centre after leaving the Pena Park, we will pass by the Mourish Castle and explore the outside walls. Entrance inside the Mourish Castle is not included.
5
Centro Historico de Sintra
We will browse again through the centre and stop for some savory snacks as we unwind.
Duration: 30 minutes
Additional info
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
• Children below 13 years are not advised to join.
• Teenagers and adults need to be in good physical shape to do this tour.
• The walk up tends to the Pena Park takes about an 1h-1h 15minutes depending on the person´s pace
• The walk down from the Pena Park to the centre should take about 1h.
