A Romantic Escape to the Enchanting Town of Sintra

A Day Among Fairytales

Today, Sintra revealed more of its captivating soul. It was a day of wandering through architectural fantasies and historical whispers, a true immersion into the romance and mystique that defines this Portuguese haven. Jean-Pierre and I set out with a sense of anticipation, eager to uncover the unique stories held within Sintra's less-trodden paths.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Adega do Saloio. I chose a hearty Portuguese pastry, while Jean-Pierre opted for a strong coffee and toast. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration.

Park and Palace of Monserrate: A Whimsical Dream

Our first stop was the Park and Palace of Monserrate, a place that truly felt plucked from the pages of a fairytale. As we approached, the palace emerged from the lush greenery, a stunning blend of Gothic, Indian, and Moorish architectural styles. The intricate details of the facade were mesmerizing, each arch and carving telling a silent story of the past.


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

Wandering through the palace, I was struck by the play of light and shadow, the way the sun streamed through the ornate windows, casting patterns on the stone floors. Jean-Pierre, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the structural ingenuity of the building. We learned that the palace was once the summer residence of Sir Francis Cook, a British merchant who clearly had a flair for the exotic. The interior was relatively small but beautifully adorned, with each room offering a unique perspective on the surrounding gardens.

The beauty of Monserrate lies not just in its architectural grandeur but in its harmonious blend with the natural landscape, creating a sanctuary where history and nature intertwine.

The gardens were even more enchanting. We strolled along winding paths, discovering hidden waterfalls, serene lakes, and exotic plants from all corners of the globe. Camellias, azaleas, and rhododendrons were in full bloom, painting the landscape in vibrant hues. It was easy to get lost in the tranquility of the park, a welcome escape from the more crowded attractions in Sintra. I even spotted a few bamboo groves that reminded me of a Japanese garden, a testament to the diverse botanical collection. The air was filled with the sweet scent of flowers, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves and the occasional birdsong. It felt like we had stepped into another world, a secret garden hidden away in the hills of Sintra.

The Moorish Castle: Echoes of History

Next, we journeyed to the Moorish Castle, a stark contrast to the whimsical beauty of Monserrate. Perched atop a rocky peak, the castle offered panoramic views of the Sintra landscape. The castle dates back to the 8th and 9th centuries, built during the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula. As we walked along the ancient walls, I couldn't help but imagine the soldiers who once stood guard here, watching for invaders.


Discover the ancient allure of The Moorish Castle in Sintra, a stunning historical landmark with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.

The climb was steep, but the views were well worth the effort. From the ramparts, we could see the Pena Palace in the distance, a colorful beacon against the green hills. The Atlantic coast stretched out to the west, a shimmering expanse of blue. The castle itself was a ruin, but its weathered stones held a palpable sense of history. We explored the remnants of the old chapel, the cistern, and the various defensive structures, each one a testament to the castle's strategic importance.

Jean-Pierre was particularly interested in the castle's military architecture, pointing out the clever design features that made it such a formidable stronghold. I was more drawn to the stories of the past, the tales of battles and sieges, of kings and conquerors. It was fascinating to think that this castle had been a silent witness to centuries of Portuguese history. I read that legend says that after the conquest of Santarém, King Afonso Henriques sieged Lisbon for three months. Though Sintra's Castle surrendered voluntarily after Lisbon fell, the sovereign entrusted Don Gil, a Knight Templar, with assembling twenty trusted men to secretly observe the enemy's movements in Sintra, fearing a surprise attack. It's these whispers of the past that make Sintra so special.

Villa Sassetti: A Hidden Oasis

Our final stop of the day was Villa Sassetti, a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. Nestled on the north side of Sintra's hill, this villa is considered one of the most beautiful and least known places in Sintra. As we approached, we were immediately struck by its unique Mediterranean aesthetic. The circular tower, built in the Romanesque Lombard style, stood in perfect harmony with the surrounding garden.


Explore Villa Sassetti, a historical gem in Sintra, Portugal, known for its breathtaking views, stunning architecture, and serene gardens.

The villa was built in 1885 by Victor Carlos Sassetti, a Sintra-born businessman, who was inspired by the castles of Lombardy. With the help of his friend Luigi Manini, the architect and scenographer who also designed Quinta da Regaleira, he created a summer refuge that blended styles and materials seamlessly. The pedestrian path that crosses the property connects the Historic Center of Sintra to the Moorish Castle and the Pena Palace, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

Although the interior of the villa was closed to the public, we were content to wander through the gardens, admiring the lush vegetation and the tranquil atmosphere. We learned that after Sassetti's death, the villa was leased to the Armenian millionaire Calouste Gulbenkian, before eventually being acquired by the City Hall in 2004. It's amazing to think of the lives that have passed through this place, each leaving their mark on its history.

Evening Reflections

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Bar Fonte da Pipa, a cozy spot known for its tapas and local wines. We shared a plate of petiscos and a bottle of crisp Vinho Verde, reminiscing about the day's adventures. The bar was lively, filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the warm Sintra evening.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Bar Fonte da Pipa, the perfect spot for relaxation in Sintra.

For dinner, we chose Sabores de Sintra, enticed by its reputation for traditional Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant was charming, with a cozy interior and an idyllic terrace. We started with steamed mussels, a local delicacy, followed by Peixinhos da Horta, a traditional tempura of green beans. For our main courses, Jean-Pierre chose the codfish with spinach and corn bread, while I opted for the Madeira skewer, a flavorful combination of meat and vegetables. The food was delicious, a perfect reflection of Portugal's rich culinary heritage.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Sabores de Sintra, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a charming setting.

As we walked back to our hotel, Sintra Marmoris Camélia, the town was quiet, the streets bathed in the soft glow of streetlights. The air was cool and crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. It had been a day of discovery, a day of immersion into the beauty and history of Sintra. As we prepare for another day of exploration, with plans to visit the National Palace of Pena, the Chalet of the Countess of Edla, and the Capuchos Convent, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this magical place with my beloved Jean-Pierre. I am also looking forward to some shopping at H'art Portugal. Tomorrow promises more enchantment, more stories waiting to be uncovered.


Discover comfort and elegance at Sintra Marmoris Camélia, your ideal base for exploring the picturesque landscapes and historic sites of Sintra.

I feel so lucky to be able to share these moments with you all! Tomorrow, more adventures await!