10 Royal Hideaways to Explore in Sintra, Portugal

Sintra, a picturesque town nestled in the mist-shrouded hills just outside Lisbon, has long been a favorite escape for Portuguese royalty. This enchanting destination is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its opulent palaces, mystical gardens, and breathtaking landscapes. While many visitors flock to the iconic Pena Palace, Sintra is brimming with hidden gems that offer a more intimate glimpse into its regal past. Join us as we explore 10 must-see spots that will make you feel like royalty.

1. Palácio de Seteais: A Night in a Royal Residence

Imagine waking up in a palace. At the Palácio de Seteais, now a luxurious hotel, you can do just that. As you sip your morning coffee on the terrace, gazing out at the Sintra Mountains, you'll understand why King Ferdinand II and Queen Maria II chose this spot for their summer escapes. The hotel's concierge can arrange exclusive after-hours tours of the palace's frescoed rooms, giving you a private glimpse into 19th-century royal life. Historical significance: The palace played a crucial role in Portuguese politics, hosting important diplomatic meetings and royal celebrations.

2. Adega de Colares: Sipping History

For wine enthusiasts, Adega de Colares is a must-visit. This historic winery, founded in 1931, is keeping alive the tradition of Ramisco and Malvasia wines – varieties that survived the phylloxera plague that devastated European vineyards. Join a tasting session led by passionate sommeliers. The cellar offers guided tours, wine tastings, and the opportunity to learn about the unique winemaking techniques of the Colares region. Visitors can also enjoy delicious local tapas, such as grilled sardines and bacalhau (salt cod), paired with their favorite wines. If you're lucky enough to visit during harvest season, you can even try your hand at traditional grape stomping.

3. Cabo da Roca: Where Land Ends and Adventure Begins

Seeking adventure? Head to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe. Here, where Portuguese explorers once set sail into the unknown, you can now embark on exhilarating coastal hikes or take a sunset horseback ride along the cliffs. The iconic lighthouse at Cabo da Roca stands as a symbol of Portugal's maritime heritage and a reminder of the country's exploration.  Visitors can hike to the lighthouse, enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, and explore the nearby cliffs and beaches.For the truly daring, local outfitters offer paragliding experiences that give you a bird's-eye view of this dramatic coastline.

4. Quinta da Regaleira: A Mystical Journey

No visit to Sintra is complete without exploring its mystical side. The Quinta da Regaleira, with its enigmatic wells and a labyrinth of underground passages and secret tunnels, is like something out of a Dan Brown novel. Quinta da Regaleira is a testament to the imagination and eccentricity of its former owner, António Carvalho Monteiro. The estate offers guided tours, allowing visitors to explore its unique features and learn about its history. Today, Quinta da Regaleira is a popular destination for families, couples, and history enthusiasts. Book a night tour to explore the illuminated gardens and underground grottoes, where you might just stumble upon a secret concert or theatrical performance. 

5. Convento dos Capuchos: A Taste of Monastic Life

For a stark contrast to Sintra's opulence, visit the Convento dos Capuchos. This austere monastery, with its cork-lined cells is a humble monastery carved into the rock face. It offers peaceful and contemplative environment for visitors. Today, the Convento dos Capuchos is a popular pilgrimage site, attracting visitors seeking a connection to nature and spirituality. Join a meditation session in the chapel or take a foraging walk with an expert botanist to learn about the herbs and plants the monks once used for medicinal purposes.

6. Palace of Monserrate: A Botanical Paradise

Often overlooked by day-trippers, the Palace of Monserrate is a horticultural heaven. The exotic gardens, designed by an English baronet, showcase plants from around the world. The Palace of Monserrate is a romantic estate with exotic gardens and eclectic architecture. It was a favorite summer retreat of King Ferdinand II and Queen Maria II. The palace's gardens are a botanical paradise. Today, the Palace of Monserrate is a popular destination for visitors seeking a peaceful and relaxing escape. Visitors can explore the gardens, admire the palace's architecture, and enjoy a picnic on the lawns.Time your visit for one of the moonlight concerts in the music room for a truly magical experience.

7. Peninha Sanctuary: Sunset Spectacle

As the day winds down, make your way to Peninha Sanctuary. Perched atop a hill, this tiny chapel offers panoramic views that stretch from Cascais to Ericeira. Time your visit for sunset, when the fading light paints the landscape in hues of gold and pink. Local astronomers often set up telescopes here, offering visitors a chance to stargaze in one of Portugal's darkest sky areas. 

8. Ericeira: Royalty Meets Surf Culture

Speaking of Ericeira, this former fishing village turned surf Mecca is a charming coastal town that is also closely connected to Sintra through its royal history. The town was a popular summer retreat for Portuguese royalty, and several historic villas and palaces can be found in the area. Check into one of the chic boutique hotels lining the cliffs and spend your days riding world-class waves or exploring the town's winding streets.  Visitors can enjoy surfing, swimming, and exploring the beautiful beaches of Ericeira.In the evening, savor fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant, perhaps at the very spot where Portugal's last king, Manuel II, bid farewell to his country in 1910.

9. Mafra Palace: A Monument to Royal Power

Mafra Palace, a magnificent Baroque palace located just a short drive from Sintra, is a testament to the grandeur and opulence of the Portuguese monarchy. Built in the early 18th century by King João V, the palace is one of the largest and most impressive palaces in Portugal. Visitors can explore the palace's vast library, royal chapel, and monastery, and learn about the history and significance of this architectural masterpiece.

10. Royal Route: From Sintra's Palaces to Cascais' Coastal Charms

Imagine yourself tracing the footsteps of Portuguese royalty as you journey between the mystical hills of Sintra and the sun-drenched shores of Cascais. This 15-20 km stretch of coastline, once traversed by aristocrats in ornate carriages, now offers modern travelers a glimpse into Portugal's regal past and stunning natural beauty. In the 19th century, the scenic coastal road linking these two gems became a favorite route for the nobility. Today, you can recreate this journey with a touch of modern comfort, winding past Cabo da Roca – the westernmost point of continental Europe – where you can stand at the edge of the Old World, just as explorers once did.

For those seeking a taste of royal living, the Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa in Cascais offers more than just luxury accommodations. Once the residence of King Umberto II, Italy's last monarch during his exile, this 5-star hotel allows guests to quite literally sleep like kings. Imagine a high tea or morning coffee on the same terrace where exiled royalty once contemplated their fate.

While the days of horse-drawn carriages may be behind us, the journey between Sintra's mist-shrouded palaces to Cascais' golden beaches remains as enchanting as ever. As you travel between these two jewels of the Portuguese Riviera, remember that you're not just moving through space, but through time. Each bend in the road, each glimpse of the Atlantic, echoes with the whispers of royalty past. 



Sintra’s Past and Present

Sintra may have been a royal retreat in the past, but today it offers a regal experience for all who visit. Once you’ve seen the iconic sites such as Pena Palace and Sintra National palace, RuaMar invites you to leave the crowds behind and discover the Sintra that has enchanted royalty and romantics for centuries.

From palace hotels to hidden beaches, from mystical gardens to world-class wineries, this town proves that the best travel experiences often lie just off the beaten path.  Contact us for a curated getaway. 

RuaMar Sintra Travel Tips, Beyond the Guidebook:

Getting There and Around

While driving to Sintra is tempting, parking is a nightmare. Instead, catch the train from Lisbon's Rossio station (a 40-minute journey). Once in Sintra, hop on the 434 or 435 tourist buses that loop between the major attractions. For a more adventurous twist, consider joining a 4x4 Jeep tour that takes you off the beaten path.

Experience Sintra Like Royalty

• Stay at historic palace hotels: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Sintra's past by staying at one of the many luxurious hotels housed in former palaces.

• Dine at hidden local restaurants: Discover authentic Portuguese cuisine at hidden gems off the beaten path.

• Book private guided experiences: Access restricted areas and gain deeper insights into Sintra's history and culture with our curated getaways.

• Best times to visit: The spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Avoid the peak summer months for a more peaceful experience.