Exploring the Enchantment of Sintra with Family

A Day of Cliffs, Science, and Royal Estates

Today was a day of contrasts, a sensory feast that took us from the whimsical heights of Parque Nacional da Pena to the stark, windswept cliffs of Cabo da Roca, and finally, to the intriguing world of science – all while savoring some delightful Portuguese cuisine. It’s amazing how much you can pack into a single day when you’re driven by curiosity and a thirst for exploration.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Adega do Saloio. The reviews I'd read online mentioned generous portions and traditional Portuguese flavors, and they weren't kidding. Lena and I shared a table with locals, the aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filling the air. It felt like a true immersion into the Sintra way of life. I am always on the lookout for an authentic experience, and this was it.


Savor authentic Portuguese flavors at Adega do Saloio in Sintra - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Fueled up, we headed to Parque Nacional da Pena. The crisp January air nipped at our noses, but the sun was out, casting a golden glow on the already vibrant landscape. The park itself is a marvel, a sprawling wonderland of exotic trees, hidden pathways, and whimsical follies. You could easily spend days exploring its depths, but we had a schedule to keep, so we focused on the highlights. The pathways were a bit steep, but manageable, and the views along the way were more than worth the effort. I'm glad I remembered to pack my hiking boots!


Explore the breathtaking beauty and romantic architecture of Parque Nacional da Pena in Sintra, a must-visit destination for every traveler in Portugal.

As we ascended towards the Palácio da Pena, the fairytale castle that crowns the Sintra hills, the views became even more breathtaking. The palace itself is a riot of color and architectural styles, a testament to the Romanticism movement. It’s as if a mad king decided to build a castle out of a child’s imagination. I could almost hear the echoes of royal footsteps and whispered secrets in the corridors. I was captivated by the intricate details, the Moorish arches, and the vibrant tiles. Lena, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the history and the stories behind each room.

Sometimes, the most unforgettable experiences are those that take you to the edge – both literally and figuratively.

After exploring the palace, we wandered through the gardens, losing ourselves in the labyrinthine pathways and discovering hidden grottos and viewpoints. The park truly is an extension of the palace, a carefully curated landscape that enhances the overall experience. I can imagine how magical it must be in the spring, when the flowers are in full bloom, but even in January, it possessed a unique charm. It was quite busy, but it was easy enough to find a secluded spot to just take it all in and appreciate the beauty of nature.


Next on our agenda was Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. After the lush greenery of Pena Park, the stark, windswept cliffs of Cabo da Roca felt like another world entirely. The landscape was barren, almost lunar, with the Atlantic Ocean stretching out to the horizon. The wind howled in our ears, and the waves crashed against the rocks below, creating a symphony of raw, untamed power. The average temperature in January is around 11-14 degrees Celsius, and the wind chill made it feel even colder. I was grateful for my jacket and scarf.


Discover Cabo da Roca, the breathtaking westernmost point of Europe, where stunning cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean in a picturesque setting.

Standing at the edge of the continent, gazing out at the vast expanse of the ocean, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and humility. It’s a reminder of the insignificance of our individual lives in the face of nature’s grandeur. It's a place that makes you contemplate the vastness of the world and your place within it. Lena and I took some photos, braving the wind and the spray, trying to capture the essence of this dramatic landscape.


For lunch, we stopped at Tacho Real, a restaurant recommended by several locals. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm fireplace and rustic décor. We ordered a selection of traditional Portuguese dishes, including fresh seafood and hearty stews. The food was delicious, and the service was friendly and attentive. I particularly enjoyed the house wine, a robust red that complemented the meal perfectly. Lena was a big fan of the lemon pie, which she declared to be the best she’d ever tasted.


Experience authentic Portuguese flavors at Tacho Real in Sintra - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Our final stop of the day was the Sintra Science Workshop. After the natural beauty of Pena Park and Cabo da Roca, I was curious to see what this unassuming attraction had to offer. I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised. The workshop is designed to make science fun and accessible for all ages, with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. We learned about everything from the physics of sound to the mysteries of the human body. It was a great way to engage our minds and learn something new. The workshop is part of Sintra's Municipal Water and Sanitation Services, which I found to be a rather quirky detail.


Explore the interactive exhibits of Sintra Science Workshop, where curiosity meets creativity in a captivating cultural experience.

Before dinner, we took some time to visit Casa Vidi, a souvenir shop in the heart of Sintra. I wanted to pick up a few mementos of our trip, and Lena was on the hunt for a unique gift for her kindergarten class. Casa Vidi had a wide selection of handcrafted jewelry, traditional Portuguese ceramics, and other local products. The staff was friendly and helpful, offering recommendations and sharing stories about the artisans who created the items. We ended up buying a few small trinkets and a beautiful hand-painted tile for Lena’s classroom.


Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Casa Vidi, the charming souvenir store in the heart of Sintra, Portugal.

For dinner, we ventured a bit outside of the main tourist area and found Curral dos Caprinos, a restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine and rustic atmosphere. The restaurant was packed with locals, a sure sign that we were in for a treat. We ordered a hearty meal of grilled meats and roasted vegetables, accompanied by a bottle of local wine. The portions were enormous, and the food was incredibly flavorful. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Sintra. I definitely recommend sharing dishes, as the portions are very generous.


Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at Curral dos Caprinos in Sintra, where tradition meets taste amidst stunning landscapes.

As we walked back to Sintra Bliss Hotel, the stars began to twinkle in the night sky. The air was crisp and cool, and the sounds of the city faded into a gentle hum. I reflected on the day’s adventures, from the fairytale grandeur of Pena Park to the rugged beauty of Cabo da Roca, and the surprising discoveries at the Science Workshop. It was a day of contrasts, a sensory feast that left us feeling both exhilarated and exhausted.


Discover the charm of Sintra at Sintra Bliss Hotel, a cozy retreat in the heart of the city with modern amenities and easy access to iconic landmarks.

Tomorrow is our last day in Sintra. We plan to explore the Historic Center, visit the Miradouro de Santa Eufémia for one last panoramic view, and wander through the Castelo dos Mouros. In the evening, we’ll celebrate our trip with a craft beer at Villa Craft Beer & Bread. I’m already looking forward to it, but I’m also a little sad to be leaving this enchanting place. Sintra has truly captured my heart, and I know I’ll be back someday. For now, though, it’s time to rest and recharge for one final day of exploration.


Until tomorrow,


Georgios