Anta de Adrenunes, could be a historical site or it could be just a collection of rocks. It is still unknown what the origins of this formation are. Some believe it is a burial chamber however there has been no scientific evidence to support this conclusion. But the granite rock formation does make it an interesting place to visit to create your own idea. There isn’t an exact place to park here, anywhere along the side of the road is good and follow the trail along the narrow path, be cautious as some climbing may be required. If you’re with small children ensure they are careful as some plants are sharp or may even sting if touched. You could park in the Sanctuary of Peninha car park and walk.

Cabo da Roca is the most westernly point in Europe as I mentioned earlier. This is accessible by car, bike or bus depending on your style. There are trails leading away from the lighthouse and viewpoint which follow along the cliff top. It is a windy spot which is why I would always recommend having a jacket with you when you visit. The cafe does have a bathroom but it is for customers only. This is the third oldest lighthouse in Portugal, standing at 22 metres tall and over 160 metres above sea level. It is still manned today even though it has been automated since the early 90’s. Follow the signposts from the main road. 

Beaches (Praias in Portuguese) – Sintra has some of the best beaches. The water may not be as warm as it is in the south of the country but it’s perfectly refreshing for a quick dip. All of the beaches from here up to the north face west resulting in all being great locations to watch sunsets. If you’re visiting in the summer months northwest is where the sun shall set, but in the winter you wish to be facing the southwest. I’ve linked here to another post all about my Top 10 Beaches to visit in the Lisbon Region and what might be handy to know about beach life in the Centre of Portugal.

Monserrate Palace and Park is built into the green forestry side of the Sintra mountain range. Once known as the Quinta do Monserrate, the land has been developed and built upon by many who have owned or leased the land. After a visit by Lord Byron, the location was soon spoken about in one of his poems, leading to other wealthy travellers visiting. One was Sir Francis Cook, an English merchant and art collector, who bought the property and transformed it into Monserrate Palace. It’s Islamic inspired symmetry is unmissable in detail and the surrounding grounds are a classic reflection on English gardens. Although it is mostly a shell of a Palace due to the furniture being lost in time as owners change and the building being almost abandoned, the structure is beautiful! It has such a clear connection to Arabic architecture and connects perfectly with the romanticism of Sintra. The park which surrounds will take you even longer to explore and do not miss the Totem by the entrance. It contains imagery of things you can find in Sintra Natural Park.

Peninha Sanctuary and Chapel is situated in the Sintra Cascais Natural Park at an altitude of 448 metres, on a clear day you are up in the clouds standing over a phenomenal view.  The Sanctuary and Chapel were built separately, the Chapel dates back to the 18th century. It was frequently visited by the families of sailors praying for their loved ones’ safe return, plus with a view of 50km out to sea it was a great spot to see the ships on the horizon. The Sanctuary however was constructed in the 20th century by the same architect of Quinta da Regaleira, Carvalho Monteiro, originally designed to be a smaller version of the infamous Pena Palace, yet never fully completed due his death. It has never been lived in but is now in the hands of the Institution of Nature and Forests with plans to conserve and use for educational purposes. There is a car park located at the base of the site, appropriate footwear would be beneficial as it is a steep walk up an uneven surface, not suitable for pushchairs.

The Sintra Cascais Natural Park covers over 145km squared and most of the places listed in this post are in the Park. It is one of a dozen in the country. Considering how old the land and buildings are the Natural Park was only categorised in 1994. The park has a huge diversity of plants, trees, mountains, cliffs and all the natural wonders of the earth. Some areas have been altered and contain plants from around the world which is why you may see a plant you wouldn’t expect. As many noblemen and women visited Sintra over the decades, each left their mark in nature. With trees from Australia, plants from tropical climates and in return the area has thrived in green picturesque landscapes. There are many trails to explore for hiking, off-roading and mountain biking depending on what you like. If you’re visiting in the summer months be cautious and take note of the closet evacuation points. Wildfires are becoming increasingly bigger and more frequent.

Viewpoints can be found throughout Sintra, some of my favourites are; Seteais Viewpoint, stroll through the archway of what is now the Tivoli Palácio de Seteais Hotel. Glaze out over the Sintra riviera or look back up the mountain on a clear day at Pena Palace. Originally built for the Dutch Consul it was later extended and the archway added in the early 1800’s. 

Another is called Miradouro da Praia do Carneiro. It’s a little more difficult to get to and some off-roading is required, so if you don’t want to risk a hire car accident maybe skip here. But the views from here are incredible, Cabo da Roca can be spotted in the distance, the lush blue and white waves crashing into the ocean below make it a great spot. I found it so relaxing, I could have sat and watched the world go by all day. A beautiful location for golden hour.