Enchanting Escape to Sintra: Exploring Portugal's Fairytale City

Whispers of the Past

Today was a day of delving into Sintra's quieter corners, exploring places that whisper stories of romance, reflection, and simpler times. Liam and I ventured beyond the bustling tourist spots to discover the serene beauty of the Chalet of the Countess of Edla, the exotic gardens of Monserrate Palace, and the austere Capuchos Convent. Each location offered a unique glimpse into different facets of Sintra's rich tapestry.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Becco de Sintra. It's a cozy little place, and the aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee was the perfect start to a day of exploration. I opted for a traditional Portuguese roll with cheese, while Liam went for the scrambled eggs. Fuelled up, we set off towards our first destination: the Chalet of the Countess of Edla.


Uncover the romantic charm of the Chalet of the Countess of Edla, a historical landmark with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens in Sintra, Portugal.

Chalet of the Countess of Edla: A Romantic Interlude

The Chalet of the Countess of Edla is nestled within the Pena Park, a short distance from the Pena Palace. As we approached, the chalet exuded a sense of romance and tranquility. It's easy to see why King Ferdinand II chose this spot for his beloved Countess Elise Hensler. The chalet, inspired by Swiss alpine architecture, stands in stark contrast to the more flamboyant Pena Palace, offering a more intimate and personal glimpse into the lives of the royals.

The exterior of the chalet is adorned with cork, a material so quintessentially Portuguese, and intricate details that highlight the couple's love for nature. Inside, the rooms are beautifully restored, showcasing the Countess's refined taste and the couple's shared passion for botany. We wandered through the gardens, admiring the exotic plants and flowers that Ferdinand and Elise cultivated together. It felt like stepping into a love story, a moment of quiet amidst the grandeur of Sintra.

To truly appreciate a place, you must allow yourself to be transported by its stories, to feel the echoes of those who walked there before you.

It reminded me a bit of our own little garden back in Dublin, though on a much grander scale, of course. I always find peace when I'm surrounded by nature, and it was lovely to share that with Liam as we strolled hand-in-hand through the Countess's gardens. I made a mental note to try and incorporate some of the chalet's design elements into our home – perhaps a cork accent wall? Liam just laughed and said, As long as I don't have to wear lederhosen, referencing the chalet's Swiss inspiration.

Park and Palace of Monserrate: A Fusion of Cultures

Our next stop was the Park and Palace of Monserrate, a place that truly embodies Sintra's unique blend of cultures and architectural styles. Leaving the romantic chalet behind, we headed towards Monserrate, and the change in scenery was immediately noticeable. The palace is located a bit further from the main tourist hub, which meant it was blissfully less crowded.


Explore the enchanting Park and Palace of Monserrate, a stunning blend of lush gardens and exquisite architecture in Sintra, Portugal.

As we walked through the gardens, Liam and I were immediately struck by the exotic vegetation. Apparently, Sir Francis Cook, who developed the palace in the 19th century, brought in plant species from all over the world. Arboreal ferns from Australia and New Zealand, for example. It felt like we were traversing through different continents, all within the confines of this magical park.

The palace itself is a stunning example of Moorish Revival architecture, with intricate arches, delicate latticework, and soaring domes. It's a fusion of Gothic, Indian, and Moorish styles, creating a unique and breathtaking aesthetic. We spent hours exploring the palace and its gardens, marveling at the beauty and serenity of the surroundings. The winter sun cast long shadows across the landscape, adding to the ethereal atmosphere.

I couldn't help but think of my parents back in Konstanz. They would absolutely adore the botanical diversity of Monserrate. Maybe we can convince them to visit us in Dublin and then take a trip here. I know my mother would be particularly fascinated by the camellias and azaleas.

Capuchos Convent: A Lesson in Simplicity

Our final destination for the day was the Capuchos Convent, a stark contrast to the opulence of the palaces we had visited earlier. Also known as the Cork Convent because of the extensive use of cork as an insulation and construction material, it offered a humbling and thought-provoking experience. To reach the convent, we drove through winding roads, surrounded by dense forests. The air was crisp and cool, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth.


Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Capuchos Convent in Colares, a serene retreat nestled in the heart of Portugal's stunning landscape.

Founded in the 16th century, the Capuchos Convent was home to Franciscan friars who sought a life of extreme simplicity and poverty. The convent is built directly into the rock, with tiny cells, narrow corridors, and minimal decoration. Cork was used extensively to insulate the buildings, providing a natural and sustainable solution to the damp climate.

As we walked through the convent, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the friars who had lived there. Their commitment to a life of austerity and contemplation was truly inspiring. The smallness of the cells and the roughness of the stone walls spoke volumes about their dedication to their spiritual path. It made me reflect on my own life, and the things that I often take for granted.

Walking through the Capuchos Convent was a powerful reminder that true wealth lies not in material possessions, but in inner peace and spiritual fulfillment. It was a fitting end to a day of exploring Sintra's hidden gems.

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

Before heading back to our hotel, we stopped by Sintra Retail Park, as I needed to pick up a new portable phone charger – I had forgotten mine! Liam and I grabbed a quick bite at McDonald's there. It wasn't exactly a traditional Portuguese meal, but sometimes you just crave a familiar taste.


Discover Sintra Retail Park: A shopping haven with diverse stores, delicious dining, and family-friendly amenities in scenic Rio de Mouro.

Later, we relaxed at Salla de Estar, a cozy little bar. I had a glass of local wine, while Liam enjoyed a pint of Sagres. We chatted about our day, sharing our favorite moments and reflecting on the beauty and diversity of Sintra.


Discover the cozy charm of Salla de Estar, a beloved bar in Sintra offering delightful snacks and expertly crafted cocktails in a welcoming atmosphere.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves at Taverna dos Trovadores. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, with traditional Portuguese decor and live music. We ordered a seafood cataplana, a classic Portuguese dish, and it was absolutely delicious. The flavors were rich and complex, a perfect ending to a day of exploration.


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

As we walked back to Sintra Marmoris Camelia, I felt grateful for the experiences we had shared. Sintra had once again captivated us with its beauty, history, and charm. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the National Palace of Sintra and explore the Sintra Science Workshop. I'm particularly excited about the palace, as I've heard it's a stunning example of medieval architecture. And Liam, ever the curious one, is looking forward to the Science Workshop.


Discover the charm of Sintra at Sintra Marmoris Camelia, where comfort meets culture in a perfect blend for travelers seeking relaxation and exploration.

Until tomorrow, Sintra!