Family Adventure in Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

Monserrate's Magic and Pisoes' Whisper

Today was a day of pure enchantment. Sintra-Cascais Natural Park continued to weave its spell, leading us through a landscape where history and nature dance in harmony. From the exotic gardens of Monserrate Palace to the secluded murmur of Pisoes Waterfall, it was a day filled with beauty and wonder. Saoirse was especially excited, her eyes wide with every new discovery.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Metamorphosis in Colares. I must say, finding a spot that caters to everyone's tastes can be a challenge, but this place hit the mark. Hans opted for a traditional Portuguese pastry, while Saoirse devoured a stack of pancakes. I chose a simple yogurt with fruit, trying to be somewhat healthy amidst all the travel indulgences. Fuelled up, we set off for the Park and Palace of Monserrate.


Explore the breathtaking Park and Palace of Monserrate in Sintra, where history, beauty, and nature come together for an unforgettable experience.

The drive itself was a treat, winding through narrow roads lined with lush greenery. I couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia for the winding country lanes of Westport. Arriving at Monserrate, we were immediately struck by its unique beauty. The palace is an architectural marvel, a blend of Gothic, Indian, and Moorish influences. Apparently, the palace's history is quite rich, starting in 1540 with a friar who wanted to build a hermitage. It felt like stepping into a fairytale. The intricate details of the façade, the delicate arches, and the ornate carvings were simply breathtaking.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found in the places where history and nature intertwine.

We wandered through the palace halls, each room telling a story of a bygone era. The library, with its heavy wooden door, was particularly impressive. I could imagine Francis Cook, who once owned the palace, spending hours immersed in books within those walls. Saoirse, however, was more fascinated by the fountains in the central hallway, her laughter echoing through the grand space.

But it was the gardens that truly stole the show. Spread across the estate, they are a testament to the vision of William Thomas Beckford, who began landscaping them in the late 18th century. The gardens are organized by geographical origin, showcasing plants from all corners of the world. We strolled through winding paths, discovering hidden grottoes, serene lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Saoirse was in her element, running ahead to explore every nook and cranny. The air was filled with the scent of exotic flowers, and the views of the surrounding hills were simply stunning.

After a couple of hours of exploring Monserrate, our stomachs started to rumble. We drove to Romaria de Baco for lunch. The restaurant had a rustic charm, with a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere. It was small and intimate, which I found appealing. I'd read good things about it, and we were all eager to try some authentic Portuguese cuisine. We started with some delicious appetizers, including mushrooms with garlic and cornbread. I must admit, the sauce was so tasty that we ended up soaking our bread in it, not wanting to waste a single drop! For the main course, Hans chose the slow-cooked pork with mashed potatoes, which he declared was the star of the show. I opted for the cod with sweet potatoes, while Saoirse, surprisingly, enjoyed a bowl of soup with egg. It was a satisfying and flavorful meal, and the prices were quite reasonable.

With our bellies full, we decided to seek out the Pisoes Waterfall. It's located near Quinta da Regaleira, and I'd read that it's a bit of a hidden gem. Finding it proved to be a small adventure in itself. We drove along narrow roads, lined with high walls. Finally, we heard the gentle murmur of water. We parked the car and walked a short distance until we found it – a small, secluded waterfall cascading down a series of rocks. While some reviews mentioned it wasn't as impressive as it might have been in the past, I found it charming in its simplicity. The surrounding greenery and the sound of the water created a peaceful oasis.


Explore the serene beauty of Pisoes Waterfall in Sintra, a picturesque natural attraction perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.

Saoirse, of course, was thrilled to discover another waterfall. She spent a good while splashing in the shallow pool at the bottom, giggling with delight. Hans and I sat on a nearby bench, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. It was a perfect moment of connection, a reminder of why we love traveling as a family.

As the day drew to a close, we headed back to Colares for dinner at Taberna Criativa. This restaurant had a more modern and creative vibe, as the name suggests. The menu was a fusion of traditional Portuguese flavors with a contemporary twist. I decided to try one of the specials - a dish that was a homage to the Pastel de Nata. The restaurant also had vegetarian options, which I always appreciate. Hans thoroughly enjoyed a seafood dish, while Saoirse opted for a simple pasta. The service was friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming.


Discover Taberna Criativa: A gastronomic gem in Sintra offering authentic Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist.

To cap off the evening, we decided to visit Taverna dos Trovadores for a nightcap. This bar has been around since 1990, and it had a cozy, old-world charm. It felt like stepping back in time. We enjoyed a glass of local wine, listening to the soft music playing in the background. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine at Taverna dos Trovadores, a must-visit restaurant in the heart of Sintra.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Sintra-Cascais Natural Park has to offer. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in history, explore stunning landscapes, and discover hidden gems. It's a place that appeals to all the senses, a place that creates lasting memories.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the coastal side of the park, with visits to Praia da Ursa and Poço Imperfeito. I've heard that Praia da Ursa is one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, and I'm excited to see it for myself. We'll also be stopping by Casa Piriquita to sample some local pastries. I have a feeling that tomorrow will be another day filled with adventure and discovery. I'm also hoping I won't forget my raincoat tomorrow, as I did today!

As I sit here writing, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Traveling with family can be challenging at times, but it's also incredibly rewarding. Seeing the world through Saoirse's eyes, experiencing new cultures together, and creating shared memories – these are the things that truly matter. And I'm so grateful to have Hans by my side, my partner in adventure, my rock.

Goodnight from Sintra! I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you tomorrow.