Enchanting Escape to Sintra: Exploring Portugal's Fairytale City

A Day of Contrasts

Today was a day of incredible contrasts, a true reflection of Sintra's multifaceted charm. We journeyed from the refined elegance of a royal palace to the raw, untamed beauty of the coastline, experiencing the heart of Portugal in all its glory. It’s days like these that make me so grateful for the opportunity to explore and share these adventures with you all.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cantinho Gourmet. Liam and I shared a couple of *torradas* and strong *café*. It was the perfect fuel for the day ahead. The staff were so friendly and welcoming, it really set a positive tone for our explorations. I even picked up a small bottle of *Ginjinha* to try later – when in Rome, or rather, Sintra!


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Cantinho Gourmet, where every dish tells a story amidst the beauty of Sintra.

First on our itinerary was the Queluz National Palace. Often referred to as the Portuguese Versailles, it certainly lived up to the hype. The palace, commissioned in 1747, exudes an air of regal sophistication. I was particularly captivated by the Throne Room, with its mirrored walls and intricately carved gilded woodwork. It felt like stepping back in time to an era of royal balls and courtly intrigue. Liam, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the architecture, pointing out the influences of Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles. We wandered through the Princess's Apartments, the Ambassador's Room, and the Music Hall, each space offering a glimpse into the lives of the Portuguese monarchy. I could almost imagine Queen Maria I strolling through those halls.


Explore the grandeur of Queluz National Palace, a historic gem showcasing the elegance of 18th-century Rococo architecture and stunning gardens.

The gardens were equally impressive, a sprawling landscape of meticulously manicured lawns, ornate fountains, and statues inspired by classical mythology. The Neptune Fountain, with its depiction of the sea god surrounded by tritons, was particularly striking. Despite it being January, the gardens retained a certain charm, and it was easy to imagine them in full bloom during the warmer months. I could picture myself spending hours here with a book in the summer.

The beauty of Sintra lies not just in its monuments, but in the way it seamlessly blends the works of man with the wonders of nature.

Leaving the palace behind, we set off towards the coast, a stark contrast to the refined elegance we had just experienced. Our destination was Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. As we drove, the landscape transformed, the lush greenery of Sintra giving way to rugged cliffs and windswept plains. The air grew cooler, carrying with it the salty tang of the Atlantic.


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

Arriving at Cabo da Roca, we were immediately greeted by the full force of nature. The wind howled, whipping our hair and clothes, and the waves crashed against the cliffs with a thunderous roar. It was exhilarating! The views were simply breathtaking, the vast expanse of the ocean stretching out before us, meeting the horizon in a hazy blend of blue and grey. The January sun, though present, did little to warm us, but the sheer drama of the landscape kept us captivated. I made sure to apply a little extra sunscreen, knowing how deceptive the winter sun can be, especially with my fair complexion.

We walked along the cliff's edge, taking in the panoramic views and feeling the invigorating spray of the ocean. It was a reminder of the raw power and untamed beauty of nature, a world away from the manicured gardens of Queluz Palace. I tried to imagine the countless sailors who had set sail from this point, venturing into the unknown, and felt a sense of awe and respect for the sea.

From Cabo da Roca, we embarked on a short hike to Praia da Ursa, a secluded beach nestled at the foot of towering cliffs. The descent was steep and a little challenging, requiring careful footing on the rocky path. I was glad I'd worn my hiking boots! As we made our way down, the beach gradually revealed itself, a crescent of golden sand framed by dramatic rock formations. Even in January, the scene was stunning.


Explore Praia da Ursa, a hidden beach paradise in Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, famous for its breathtaking cliffs and tranquil waters.

Praia da Ursa is known for its two prominent sea stacks, the Pedra da Ursa (Bear Rock) and the Pedra do Gigante (Giant's Rock), which stand sentinel against the crashing waves. The beach itself is small and secluded, offering a sense of privacy and tranquility. Though the strong currents made swimming unadvisable, we enjoyed walking along the shore, collecting seashells, and marveling at the power of the ocean. It was so refreshing to be away from the tourist crowds, surrounded only by the sound of the waves and the cries of the seagulls.

I couldn't resist dipping my toes in the icy water, a bracing reminder of the Atlantic's chill. Liam, ever the cautious one, warned me about the strong currents and lack of lifeguards, but I assured him I wouldn't venture too far. We spent a blissful hour exploring the beach, taking photos, and simply soaking in the atmosphere. It was the perfect ending to a day of contrasts, a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the grandeur of Sintra's landscape.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Sintra, our hearts full of memories and our bodies tired but content. We stopped for lunch at Maria Bojarda, a charming restaurant in the heart of town. We shared a *tábua* of local cheeses and cured meats, accompanied by a bottle of crisp *vinho verde*. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to refuel after our coastal adventures.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine in the heart of Sintra at Maria Bojarda - a must-visit restaurant for food lovers.

For dinner, we decided to try Metamorphosis, a restaurant near the train station that had caught my eye earlier in the day. The ambiance was elegant, yet relaxed, and the menu offered a tempting array of Portuguese dishes. I opted for the *bacalhau à brás*, a traditional cod dish with scrambled eggs and potatoes, while Liam chose the grilled octopus. Both were cooked to perfection, and the service was impeccable. We finished our meal with a decadent chocolate mousse, the perfect sweet ending to a perfect day.


Experience exquisite Portuguese cuisine at Metamorphosis in Sintra - where tradition meets modern flavors.

Before heading back to our hotel, we stopped at Bar Fonte da Pipa for a nightcap. The bar had a cozy, local feel, and we enjoyed a couple of glasses of Portuguese wine while listening to live music. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


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

As I write this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's itinerary, which includes a visit to the Chalet of the Countess of Edla, the Park and Palace of Monserrate, and the Capuchos Convent. Each day in Sintra brings new discoveries and unforgettable experiences. I’m also planning to do a little shopping at Sintra Retail Park and perhaps enjoy a drink at Salla de Estar. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow holds!

Goodnight from Sintra,

Ursula