A Romantic Escape to the Enchanting Town of Sintra

Where the Land Ends and the Magic Begins

Today was a day of dramatic contrasts, a perfect encapsulation of Sintra's diverse beauty. From the rugged, windswept cliffs of Cabo da Roca to the tranquil, almost otherworldly gardens of Monserrate Palace, it was a journey that stirred the soul and filled the senses. Jean-Pierre and I ventured out, eager to embrace the wildness of the coast and the serenity of hidden landscapes.


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

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Tapas da Cris. The morning was crisp, with a promise of sunshine that seemed to dance just beyond the clouds. The tapas were delicious, setting the stage for a day of exploration. We savored every bite, knowing that we needed the energy for the adventures ahead.

Cabo da Roca: Standing at the Edge of Europe

Our first stop was Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. As we approached, the wind picked up, carrying with it the salty tang of the Atlantic. Stepping out of the car, we were immediately greeted by a powerful gust that threatened to steal my hat. Jean-Pierre chuckled, securing my hand as we made our way towards the cliffs.

The view was breathtaking. Sheer cliffs plunged into the churning ocean below, the waves crashing against the rocks with relentless force. The sky was a canvas of swirling grays and blues, the sun occasionally peeking through to cast a fleeting golden glow on the landscape. It was raw, untamed beauty at its finest.

We walked along the cliffside path, the wind whipping our hair and stinging our faces. The air was filled with the cries of seabirds, circling overhead as if guarding this edge of the world. The Farol do Cabo da Roca, a historic lighthouse perched on the promontory, stood as a stoic sentinel, its light a beacon for sailors navigating these treacherous waters. I learned that it started operating in 1772 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in Portugal. It definitely added to the dramatic scenery.


Explore Cabo da Roca, the breathtaking westernmost point of Europe, where dramatic cliffs meet the endless Atlantic Ocean in stunning natural beauty.

“To reach something that has not been attempted before, something new must be done.”

Jean-Pierre, ever the romantic, quoted Luís de Camões, the Portuguese poet who described Cabo da Roca as where the land ends and the sea begins. It felt profoundly true. Standing there, on the edge of Europe, with the vast expanse of the Atlantic stretching out before us, I felt a sense of awe and humility. It was a reminder of the immense power of nature and the insignificance of our own existence in the face of such grandeur.

We took some photos, trying to capture the essence of this wild place, but no image could truly do it justice. It was an experience that had to be felt, the wind in your hair, the salt on your lips, the roar of the ocean in your ears.

Park and Palace of Monserrate: A Sanctuary of Serenity

Leaving the dramatic coastline behind, we drove inland towards the Park and Palace of Monserrate. The contrast was striking. As we entered the grounds, the wind died down, and the air became still and fragrant. The landscape transformed from rugged cliffs to lush, manicured gardens.


Discover the exquisite Park and Palace of Monserrate in Sintra, where history and nature intertwine in a breathtaking landscape.

The Palace of Monserrate is a unique architectural gem, a blend of Gothic, Indian, and Moorish influences. It was rebuilt in the 19th century for Sir Francis Cook, an English merchant who fell in love with Sintra's landscape. The palace is surrounded by stunning gardens, home to plant species from all over the world. It really felt like stepping into another world.

We spent hours wandering through the gardens, discovering hidden paths, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes. The air was filled with the sound of birdsong and the gentle rustling of leaves. It was a sanctuary of tranquility, a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Jean-Pierre and I explored the frilly architectural designs, marveling at the exotic exterior. I particularly enjoyed the scenic paths that led us to a ruined chapel – every corner turned revealed a new, picturesque view. I made sure to take my time admiring the different plant species, feeling like I had been transported to different corners of the earth.

We had lunch at Nau Palatina, a cozy restaurant that offered a delightful selection of petiscos, or Portuguese tapas. We sat in the esplanade and enjoyed the warm sun while we savored the flavors of locally sourced ingredients. The staff was incredibly friendly, explaining the menu and making us feel right at home. It was the perfect interlude in our day of exploration.


Discover Nau Palatina in Sintra: A delightful tapas bar offering authentic Portuguese flavors and a warm dining experience.

As the afternoon wore on, we found ourselves drawn to the ZID lounge Bar. It was the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a day of exploring. The atmosphere was intimate, the decor beautiful, and the staff incredibly attentive. Jean-Pierre enjoyed a shisha while I sipped on a cocktail, and we both agreed that it was the perfect way to end our day.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Sintra at ZID Lounge Bar, where exquisite cocktails meet a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Evening Reflections and Tomorrow's Lisbon Adventure

For dinner, we chose Taverna dos Trovadores, known for its authentic Portuguese cuisine and cozy atmosphere. It was a perfect way to immerse ourselves in the local culture. Jean-Pierre enjoyed the pizza, while I had a traditional Portuguese dish. The restaurant was busy, but the service was attentive, and we felt like we were part of a lively family gathering.


Discover authentic Portuguese flavors at Taverna dos Trovadores in Sintra - where every meal tells a story.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Sintra had to offer. From the dramatic coastline to the serene gardens, it was a place of endless surprises and contrasts. It was a place where nature and history intertwined, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.

Tomorrow, we're off to Lisbon. We plan to visit Lisboa Autêntica, Jerónimos Monastery, and Belém Tower. I'm excited to explore the city's rich history and vibrant culture, and I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences. We also plan to have breakfast at Monserrate, lunch at Curral dos Caprinos, and dinner at Tacho Real. And I am looking forward to visiting Casa Vidi to get some shopping done.

Before drifting off to sleep, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for these moments of discovery with Jean-Pierre. It's these shared experiences that enrich our lives and create lasting memories. As I close my eyes, I carry with me the wildness of Cabo da Roca and the serenity of Monserrate, two contrasting landscapes that somehow perfectly capture the essence of Sintra.