Family Adventure in Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

Enchanted Echoes of Sintra

Today, as our Sintra adventure nears its end, I found myself reflecting on the journey so far. It's been a tapestry woven with threads of history, nature, and the simple joys of family. Each day has revealed a new facet of this magical place, and today was no exception. The crisp January air, carrying the scent of damp earth and pine, set the stage for another day of exploration with Hans and Saoirse.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Sabores Do Mercado in Colares. This charming spot is known for its dedication to showcasing the best of Sintra and the surrounding Saloia region through modern Portuguese gastronomy. I opted for a strong café com leite and a pastel de nata, while Hans enjoyed some scrambled eggs and Saoirse devoured a croissant. It was the perfect fuel for the day’s adventures.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Restaurante Sabores Do Mercado in Sintra - where every dish tells a story.

With our bellies full, we set off to explore the mystical Gruta do Labirinto. Tucked away in the Quinta da Regaleira, this labyrinthine grotto promised a journey into the depths of Sintra’s hidden secrets. As we descended into the earth, a cool dampness enveloped us, and the air grew thick with the scent of stone and moss. The tunnels twisted and turned, leading us deeper into the heart of the Quinta. Saoirse was in her element, her imagination running wild as she explored every nook and cranny. Hans and I followed close behind, marveling at the unique architecture and the sense of mystery that permeated the air.


Explore the enchanting Gruta do Labirinto in Sintra, a mystical cave within Quinta da Regaleira, rich in history, architecture, and natural beauty.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

The Gruta do Labirinto is more than just a series of tunnels; it’s a symbolic journey, a descent into the self. The architecture is filled with symbolism, drawing on elements of Freemasonry, alchemy, and classical mythology. It felt like stepping into another world, a place where the veil between reality and imagination was thin. Saoirse, ever the adventurer, led the way, her laughter echoing through the stone corridors. I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder, as if we were discovering secrets that had been hidden for centuries. The Quinta da Regaleira itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you can feel the history seeping from every stone. It was commissioned in the early 20th century by António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro, a wealthy man with a passion for the occult. Designed by Italian architect Luigi Manini, the Quinta is a testament to Monteiro’s esoteric interests, a place where architecture and symbolism intertwine.

Emerging from the Gruta, blinking in the sunlight, we felt as though we’d stepped out of a dream. It was time for lunch, and we headed to Pic Nic I, a restaurant known for its vibrant fusion of Indian and Italian flavors. I chose the chicken tikka, while Hans opted for the Italian pasta, and Saoirse went for a simple margherita pizza. The food was delicious, a welcome burst of flavor after our subterranean adventure. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly, the perfect place to unwind and recharge.


Discover the delightful fusion of Indian and Italian flavors at Pic Nic I in Sintra – a must-visit dining experience for travelers.

After lunch, we ventured into Pena Park to find The Warrior Statue. Standing atop a towering rock formation, the statue is a granite figure of a medieval warrior, spear in hand. It was erected in 1848 and is believed to represent Ferdinand II as the eternal guardian of his domain. There wasn't a way to reach the statue itself, but we admired it from the base, learning about its history and significance. Saoirse was fascinated by the warrior, imagining him guarding the park from invaders. The statue is positioned near the Temple of Columns and the Queen's Table, a spot favored by Queen Amelia. The park itself is a testament to the Romanticist style, blending nature and art in a harmonious way.


Discover the Warrior Statue in Sintra – a captivating monument that embodies Portuguese heritage and offers breathtaking views of nature's beauty.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to stop at Casa do Fauno, a bar in Colares known for its medieval atmosphere. It was the perfect spot to relax and reflect on our day of exploration. I enjoyed a glass of local wine, while Hans sampled some Portuguese craft beer, and Saoirse sipped on a refreshing juice. The bar had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and we felt right at home.


Experience the charm of Casa do Fauno in Sintra, where medieval vibes meet a cozy pub and bookstore atmosphere, perfect for every traveler.

Looking back on today, I’m struck by the sheer variety of experiences Sintra has to offer. From the depths of the Gruta do Labirinto to the heights of the Warrior Statue, every corner of this place is filled with wonder and magic. It’s a place that ignites the imagination, a place where history and nature come together in perfect harmony.

Tomorrow is our last day in Sintra, and we plan to make the most of it. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Parque Nacional da Pena and Lagoa Azul. I’m particularly excited to explore the park, with its stunning views and diverse landscapes. We’ll be having breakfast at Restaurante Pikatta, lunch at Sintra, and dinner at Miranda Restaurant & Terrace bar. We’ll also be doing some shopping at Seaside, hoping to find a few souvenirs to take back to Berlin.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Sintra has captured my heart, and I know I’ll be back someday to explore more of its hidden treasures. For now, though, it’s time to rest and prepare for our final day of adventure.

Until tomorrow,
Aoife