Offbeat Sintra Experiences: Discover Tranquility

Located about 30km (19 miles) from Lisbon, Sintra is one of the most visited places in Portugal. The proximity to the capital and the beauty of this village and nature park make it a must-see destination, translating into millions of visitors a year. Yes, you read that right – millions. Considering that Sintra’s entire municipality has an estimated population of around 380,000 people, the number of annual visitors to this picturesque location far surpasses its resident population.

While the Palácio da Pena, the Castelo dos Mouros, and the Quinta da Regaleira are among the most visited places, there are several other spaces and activities in the town of Sintra and the Parque Natural Sintra-Cascais that offer a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds.

1. Explore the Details of the Palácio and Parque Biester

Perhaps because it only opened to the public in 2022, the Palácio Biester still slips under the radar for many visitors to Sintra. Side-by-side with its better-known and busier neighbor, Quinta da Regaleira, this property, dating from the 19th century, is a perfect example of the romantic architecture that so well characterizes the buildings hidden among the dense Sintra forest.

The botanical park covers 6 hectares (15 acres) and boasts trees from all over the world, offering stunning views of the Castelo dos Mouros and the town of Sintra from its belvederes. The palace itself is full of original and extraordinary details, like the decorative paintings by the artist Luigi Manini and the French master Paul Baudry that adorn the walls and ceilings of each room. Furthermore, like other places in Sintra, mysticism and the occult intersect here with stories of the Knights Templar and initiation chambers that feed the imagination. It will take several hours to fully appreciate the beauty of the Biester property.

2. Hit the Trail from Villa Sassetti to the Chalet da Condessa D’Edla

This journey is not for the faint of body or spirit. We’re talking about almost a day of walking along winding, uneven paths uphill from Villa Sassetti to the Chalet da Condessa D’Edla, passing the lakes of the Parque da Pena. However, the natural beauty of the route, with countless nooks, crannies, old buildings, and viewpoints, makes it well worth the effort. To navigate the trails, visit the tourist office in Praça da República and ask for the maps of Villa Sassetti and Parque da Pena before embarking on your journey.

Detour: Don’t want to do the whole route or don’t have enough time? Start at the entrance to the Vale dos Lagos. Remember to bring comfortable trail shoes and water to keep you hydrated.

3. Ride the Rails between Sintra and Praia das Maçãs

Leave Sintra and head towards the coast aboard a traditional Portuguese tram. Built in the early 20th century, this line leading to Praia das Maçãs was abandoned for years before being restored in 2004. Today, it takes local residents and visitors on an 11km (7-mile) journey through the Sintra landscape, passing houses and roads and stopping at places like the Adega Regional de Colares, in a unique 45-minute ride to the sea.

Planning tip: To get to Praia das Maçãs, take the streetcar at Rua General Alves Roçadas in Estefânia. You can buy the ticket at Vila Alda – Casa do Elétrico, located next to the streetcar stop (excluding weekends and public holidays, when you can buy it directly on the transport). When returning to Sintra, remember to get your ticket from the driver.

4. Stroll through the Gardens of Quinta da Ribafria

Quinta da Ribafria, a property from 1541 and an example of Manueline civil architecture, sits on the outskirts of the Parque Natural Sintra-Cascais, about 35km (22 miles) from Lisbon.

After years of abandonment, this manor opened its gates in 2015, inviting visitors to wander through its once-neglected woods and gardens. Follow along a charming path adorned with sculptures by both Portuguese and international artists – including Stefano Beccari from Italy and Amparo Luis from Spain – or stop on one of the benches to enjoy the peace and quiet and be carried away by the sound of the wind in the treetops. If you go when the estate opens at 10am, you may be one of the first there.

5. Have a Picnic at the Lagoa Azul

Although it’s not an unknown place due to its proximity to Cascais, Lagoa Azul is an ideal option if you’re looking for a green area for a picnic or just a stroll surrounded by the beautiful landscape of the Serra de Sintra. This lagoon takes on beautiful hues of green and blue as the day passes, resembling an oasis, only disturbed by the splashing of ducks or the sound of dogs walking by their owners. Additionally, the place is a popular starting point for mountain bike rides. For a more peaceful experience, avoid weekends or August and visit early in the morning.

Planning tip: The parking lot is small, so finding a space during busy hours may be challenging. Alternatively, consider taking the train from Lisbon to Cascais and then a taxi or Uber to reach the lagoon.

6. Be Amazed by the Views from the Santuário da Peninha

At one of the highest points in Serra de Sintra, almost 500m (1640ft) above sea level, the Santuário da Peninha offers the best views in the Parque Natural Sintra-Cascais.

Walk along dirt tracks until you come to the Capela de Nossa Senhora da Peninha, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. On clear days, you can see from Cabo Espichel in the south to Cabo Carvoeiro in the north. Closer by, glimpses of Praia do Guincho, Cascais, and the Cabo da Roca lighthouse, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, await you.

Adjacent to the chapel is a mansion built in 1918 by the same owner of Quinta da Regaleira (closed to visitors), with an old 12th-century hermitage further down.

Planning tip: This area is quite exposed to winds, so check the weather before you visit.

7. Follow the Paths Taken by Monks at the Convento dos Capuchos

The Convento dos Capuchos, also known as the “Cork Convent” due to the use of cork in its construction, offers a serene environment for contemplation and introspection. This 16th-century convent followed the religious philosophy of the Order of St. Francis of Assisi.

For 250 years, Franciscan monks walked these paths between large granite blocks and dense vegetation, welcoming a few faithful residents and visitors alike. As you wander these trails today, you’ll encounter chapels and hermitages steeped in history while spirituality lingers, unconsciously slowing your pace.

8. Taste Fresh Fish with a Sea View at Azenhas do Mar

Once an old fishing village, Azenhas do Mar never ceases to amaze visitors with its simplicity, beauty, and harmony with the surrounding landscape. About 10km (6 miles) from Sintra and 40km (25 miles) from Lisbon, this small group of white houses stretches along the cliffs, resembling a picturesque painting. In fact, many Portuguese painters have drawn inspiration from this location, including Júlio Pomar. Arriving from Praia das Maçãs, stop at the viewpoint facing the town and you’ll understand why.

The area has limited parking, especially in summer. However, you can enjoy the natural pool on the beach at the foot of the cliff, where the small beach loses its sand at high tide. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the freshest fish and seafood while enjoying breathtaking views and beautiful sunsets.

9. Relax at Praia do Magoito

About 10km (6 miles) from Azenhas do Mar, Praia do Magoito is an excellent option to escape Sintra’s busiest beaches, such as Praia Grande or Praia das Maçãs. There’s plenty of space to lay your towel on this long sandy beach that stretches along the imposing cliffs leading to Praia da Aguda. Another way to explore this landscape is by walking along the cliff-top path that links the two beaches.

Tips for Avoiding the Crowds in Sintra

Visiting during the low season and on weekdays is ideal to avoid the largest crowds in Sintra. If visiting during peak times, opt for the opening hours or last visits of the day to see the monuments more peacefully. Staying overnight in town can enhance your experience, allowing you to enjoy a relaxed evening after the day trippers leave. Additionally, buying tickets online whenever possible will help you avoid queues and better plan your time.