Family Adventure in Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

A Fond Farewell to Fairytale Sintra

As our family adventure in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park draws to a close, I find myself filled with a bittersweet mix of contentment and nostalgia. Today, our final day, was dedicated to soaking in the last drops of this enchanting region's magic. We explored the vibrant Parque Nacional da Pena and the serene Lagoa Azul, creating memories that I know we'll cherish for years to come. It’s hard to believe our nine days here are already up – it feels like just yesterday we were arriving in Lisbon, eager to begin our exploration.


Explore the enchanting Parque Nacional da Pena in Sintra, where vibrant gardens and stunning architecture await in a harmonious blend of nature and history.

Our day began, as many do on vacation, with a hearty breakfast. We decided to try Restaurante Pikatta in Colares. It was a cozy spot, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploring. Saoirse was particularly excited about the pastries, and Hans enjoyed a strong coffee to prepare for the day's adventures. I opted for some fresh fruit and yogurt, a lighter option to balance out the indulgent treats we'd been enjoying throughout the week. Feeling refreshed and ready, we set off towards Parque Nacional da Pena.

The drive itself was a treat, winding through the lush hills and offering glimpses of the stunning coastline. As we approached the park, the whimsical turrets and vibrant colors of Pena Palace began to emerge from the mist, looking like something straight out of a fairytale. Even though it's January, the park was alive with greenery, a testament to the region's unique microclimate. We parked the car and decided to walk the rest of the way, wanting to fully immerse ourselves in the natural beauty surrounding us. I made a mental note that I need to buy a portable phone charger when I get back to Berlin, as mine was dead. It's always something, isn't it?

The Pena Palace was even more breathtaking up close. Its mix of architectural styles – Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Neo-Islamic – is simply astounding, a testament to the creativity and vision of King Ferdinand II. Saoirse was fascinated by the gargoyles and intricate details, while Hans, ever the engineer, admired the structural ingenuity of the building. We spent hours wandering through the palace, exploring its opulent rooms and imagining what life must have been like for the royal family who once resided here. The views from the palace were simply spectacular, stretching out over the Sintra Mountains and towards the Atlantic Ocean. Despite the crowds, there was a sense of tranquility and magic in the air.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are the ones we stumble upon unexpectedly, revealing hidden facets of ourselves and the world around us.

After our visit to Pena Palace, we decided to seek out a different kind of beauty at Lagoa Azul. The name, meaning Blue Lagoon, conjured images of crystal-clear waters and serene landscapes, and it did not disappoint. Getting there required a bit of a drive and a short hike, but the effort was well worth it. The lagoon was a tranquil oasis, surrounded by lush vegetation and offering a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist crowds. We took a leisurely stroll around the lagoon, enjoying the fresh air and the sounds of nature. Saoirse, ever the curious one, spotted some ducks and turtles in the water, much to her delight. Hans, meanwhile, was busy capturing the picturesque scenery with his camera.


Experience the enchanting beauty of Lagoa Azul, a serene hiking area in Sintra, Portugal, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

I found myself reflecting on our trip as we walked, thinking about all the incredible experiences we'd shared as a family. From exploring the historic streets of Sintra to hiking along the dramatic coastline, we'd truly made the most of our time in this beautiful region. I was reminded of our time living in Ireland, and how much I miss the rugged coastlines and the friendly faces. Perhaps we'll plan a trip back to Westport soon, to visit family and relive some of those cherished memories.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy before our final dinner. We stopped by Seaside, a local shop in Sintra, hoping to find some souvenirs to take back home. Saoirse picked out a colorful scarf, while Hans found a beautiful handcrafted tile to add to his collection. I opted for a bottle of local wine, a perfect reminder of our time in Portugal. We then freshened up at the hotel before heading to our final dinner.


Discover a diverse selection of stylish and affordable footwear at Seaside in Rio de Mouro, perfect for every occasion.

For our last meal in Sintra, we chose Miranda Restaurant & Terrace Bar, drawn in by its promise of panoramic views of the Sintra Mountains. The restaurant was located in the NH Sintra Centro hotel, which offered stunning views. The food was delicious, a mix of Mediterranean and Portuguese specialties, and the service was impeccable. We savored every bite, knowing that this was our last taste of Portugal for a while. As we dined, we watched the sun set over the mountains, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience exquisite dining with stunning views at Miranda Restaurant & Terrace Bar in Sintra's picturesque landscape.

Looking ahead, there’s no specific itinerary for tomorrow, as it marks the end of our trip. We’ll be packing our bags, enjoying one last Portuguese breakfast, and then making our way back to Lisbon for our flight to Berlin. While I'm eager to return to our cozy apartment and familiar routines, I know I'll miss the beauty and charm of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. I’m also slightly dreading the Berlin weather. I forgot to pack a raincoat, and I know Berlin in January can be unforgiving.

This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a chance for our family to reconnect with nature, explore a new culture, and create lasting memories. As an ESL teacher, I often encourage my students to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new experiences. This trip has been a reminder for me to do the same, to continue exploring the world and learning from different cultures. And who knows, maybe our next adventure will be inspired by one of my students, taking us to a new and exciting corner of the globe.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to have experienced such a magical place with my family. Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, you have captured our hearts, and we will be back.

Our family adventure might be ending, but the memories we have made here will last a lifetime. From the fairytale Pena Palace to the tranquil Lagoa Azul, Sintra has given us so much to cherish. As we prepare to return to Berlin, I know that we will carry a piece of this magical place with us, inspiring us to continue exploring the world and embracing new experiences. Until next time, Sintra!

The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park has truly been a memorable escape, filled with fairytale landscapes and cherished family moments. As we bid farewell, we take with us not only photos and souvenirs, but a renewed sense of adventure and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of our world.