Our activity starts at the meeting point at Portela de Sintra Station.
We continue by van to the Sanctuary of Santa Eufémia, one of the Peñas, considered sacred since the time of the Ancestors and throughout the centuries. We then proceed to the center of Sintra, where we stop at the Fonte da Sabuga to learn about the Sacred Water of Sintra. We see the National Palace and stop to take photos and hear a description of the historical context. Then, optionally, we walk about 1.5 km to see the stunning and enigmatic masterpiece of Quinta da Regaleira, an example of Sintra's Alchemical and Mystical expression, and we pass by Seteais to see the exterior of the Palace. Further on, we go to Monserrate Palace, one of the beautiful examples of the Romantic Palaces and Gardens of Sintra, in case of a visit - optional.
We continue through Colares, going up the mountain range to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point in Europe. Before Cabo da Roca, and whenever possible, as there are frequent road closures within the Sintra Mountains, we will visit the Sanctuary of Peninha as an alternative to Santa Eufémia. Here, in addition to the breathtaking views, we connect with a sacred place marked by different civilizations. We will also see an example of a Sintra megalith.
After this, we will stop for lunch or brunch.
We return to Sintra along the coast, passing by Praia das Maçãs and Azenhas do Mar.
In Sintra, we will return through the Historic Center and go up the mountain, passing by Chalet Biester, Castelo dos Mouros, and finally Pena Palace. After stops at the photo spots to appreciate the Palaces in their historical context, we will then visit the exterior of the Pena Palace and Gardens. If you wish to take the short tour inside the Palace, you will have to make a reservation for the late afternoon – optional.
At the end, we return to the meeting point, or you can visit the Historic Center and then stroll through the town to the train station, about a 10-minute walk.
