A Romantic Escape to the Enchanting Town of Sintra

Sintra's Enchanting Allure: A Day of Myths, Legends, and Coastal Wonders

Today was all about diving deeper into Sintra's captivating stories and natural beauty. Jean-Pierre and I set out to explore the mystical side of this charming town, and it certainly didn't disappoint. From interactive exhibits to rugged coastlines, Sintra revealed its many layers, leaving us in awe of its unique charm.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Casa das Minas. The reviews I had read online were spot on. We enjoyed some delicious pastries and coffee, all while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of adventure. Unfortunately, it seems like Casa das Minas is permanently closed, which is a real shame.

Unraveling Sintra's Tales at Sintra Mitos & Lendas

Next on our itinerary was Sintra Mitos & Lendas, an interactive center dedicated to the myths and legends of Sintra. I was intrigued by the promise of a journey through time and space, exploring the town's history, music, and literature through multimedia techniques and sensory experiences.

The center is located in the heart of Sintra, and as we stepped inside, we were immediately transported to another world. The exhibits were thoughtfully designed, blending reality and fiction to create an immersive experience. Jean-Pierre, ever the history buff, was particularly fascinated by the stories of Sintra's past, while I enjoyed the sensory elements, like the augmented reality displays and 3D films.

Sintra's magic lies not just in its stunning landscapes, but in the stories woven into its very fabric, inviting you to become part of its timeless narrative.

We spent a couple of hours exploring the various exhibits, each one revealing a different facet of Sintra's mystical side. From tales of enchanted forests to legends of kings and queens, Sintra Mitos & Lendas brought the town's rich folklore to life. It was a fantastic way to gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage of Sintra.


Explore the enchanting legends of Sintra at Sintra Mitos & Lendas, a captivating museum that celebrates the rich folklore and history of this magical town.

Embarking on a Coastal Expedition with Bela Vista Expeditions

After immersing ourselves in Sintra's myths and legends, it was time to explore its natural beauty. We had booked a tour with Bela Vista Expeditions, hoping to discover some of the hidden gems along the coast. Fortunately, there are other companies with a similar name, so we were able to do the tour.

Our guide, Miguel, was a wealth of knowledge, sharing insights about the local flora, fauna, and geology as we made our way along the rugged coastline. The views were simply breathtaking, with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean stretching out before us. The air was fresh and invigorating, and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks was incredibly soothing.

One of the highlights of the tour was a visit to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. Standing on the edge of the cliffs, gazing out at the endless horizon, I felt a sense of awe and wonder. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel – to experience the raw beauty of our planet and to connect with nature in a profound way.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Sintra with Bela Vista Expeditions, your ultimate adventure hub.

Conquering Praia da Ursa: A Hidden Beach Paradise

Our final stop of the day was Praia da Ursa, a secluded beach known for its dramatic rock formations and pristine sands. Getting to the beach required a bit of a hike down a steep and rocky trail, but the effort was well worth it.

As we descended, the views became increasingly spectacular, with glimpses of the turquoise water and the unique rock formations that give the beach its name. Finally, we reached the bottom, and I was immediately captivated by the beauty of Praia da Ursa. The beach was small and secluded, surrounded by towering cliffs and the iconic Pedra da Ursa and Pedra do Gigante rock formations.

We spent a couple of hours exploring the beach, taking photos, and simply soaking up the tranquility of this hidden paradise. The water was a bit too chilly for swimming, but I couldn't resist dipping my toes in the Atlantic. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated by the power of nature.


Experience the untouched beauty of Praia da Ursa, a serene beach in Portugal's Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, where cliffs meet crystal waters.

Culinary Delights and Evening Relaxation

After our adventurous day, we were ready for a delicious meal. We headed to COMO Restaurante for lunch. The service was excellent, and the food was even better. I especially enjoyed the seafood dishes, which were fresh and flavorful. Jean-Pierre was delighted with his aged entrecôte.

For dinner, we decided to try A Raposa, known for its intimate atmosphere and local cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the staff made us feel right at home. We savored traditional Portuguese dishes, accompanied by a bottle of local wine. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day.

To cap off the evening, we stopped by Casa do Fauno, a unique bar known for its medieval-themed decor and magical atmosphere. We enjoyed a couple of drinks, surrounded by eclectic decorations and fellow travelers. It was a fun and memorable way to end our day in Sintra.


Discover Casa do Fauno, a unique pub and bookstore in Sintra, where literature meets leisure in a charming atmosphere.

Looking Ahead: Palaces and Workshops Await

As I write this, I'm already excited about what tomorrow holds. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Queluz National Palace, a tour of the Sintra Science Workshop, and a boat trip in Lisbon. It sounds like another day filled with exploration and discovery.

Tomorrow, we plan to start our day with breakfast at Taverna do Município, followed by a visit to Queluz National Palace. I've heard it's a stunning example of Rococo architecture, and I can't wait to explore its opulent interiors and beautiful gardens. After that, we'll head to the Sintra Science Workshop, where we'll get hands-on with interactive exhibits and learn about the wonders of science.

In the afternoon, we'll venture to Lisbon for a boat trip along the Tagus River. I'm looking forward to seeing the city from a different perspective and enjoying the beautiful views of Lisbon's skyline. We'll have lunch at Dona Maria in Lisbon.

For dinner, we've made reservations at Petiscaria Casa, a restaurant known for its traditional Portuguese tapas. I'm excited to try a variety of local dishes and experience the vibrant flavors of Portuguese cuisine. And perhaps we'll stop by A Loja to pick up a souvenir.

Until then, goodnight from Sintra!

It's amazing to think that we're already halfway through our trip. Time flies when you're having fun, and Sintra has certainly captured our hearts. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings and to continue sharing our adventures with you all. Traveling with Jean-Pierre makes every experience even more special, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to explore the world with my best friend and partner in crime.