The hills of Sintra, located in Portugal, are known for their breathtaking and mysterious landscapes and rich history. Sintra is also a UNESCO World Heritage site with a wide variety of trails that are worth discovering. Paths that take you through the historical centre, up the mountain or along the coast, and through little villages. There are many options, with different distances, for all kinds of groups. Get to know some ideas for your walk-in Sintra!
5 trails in Sintra
Palace Hike (5,8km)
The most accessible way to get to the main palaces in the historical part of Sintra. This circular walk starts and ends near the National Palace of Sintra.
The route takes us to Quinta da Regaleira, Seteais Palace, Pena Palace, and the Moorish Castle. Along the way, you can pass by churches, water mines, fountains, and even a waterfall. This walk is suitable for all seasons because the forest remains green all year round and the shade is abundant, maintaining a cool environment even on hotter days, although in Winter it might be cold and moist.
Monserrate - Capuchin Convent (6,5km)
This is the best way to visit the Park and Palace of Monserrate which belonged to Francis Cook in the 19th Century and the Capuchin Convent - this convent was once home to Franciscan friars. The route is made through dirt roads, between pine forests and flowers, at any time of the year.
Cabo da Roca (14km)
This route is quite diverse in terms of landscape and type of terrain. Starting from the westernmost point of Europe, Cabo da Roca, this route follows a dirt road toward the coast. Further on it climbs a footpath up to the famous dinosaur footprints of Praia Grande and returns to Cabo da Roca passing through pine forests and the villages of Almoçageme and Ulgueira.
Countryside Villages (13,5km)
This route passes through the villages of the rural area of Sintra. The route starts at the São João das Lampas church, from the 15th century. Along the route, you can enjoy the old windmills, the fields, and the recently restored Roman bridge and road toward the village of Catribana. On this low-difficulty route, you will also pass through the villages of Cortezia and Assafora before returning to São João das Lampas.
Atlantic Path (30km)
The Atlantic Path has 30 km. The first 15 km of the route follows mainly the coastline. At Magoito the route enters inland, passing through several villages until reaching Mafra. This route is very varied in nature and can easily be done in stretches. Although most people follow the south-north direction, the route is marked in both directions.
Move Sports
Would you like to explore the paths of Sintra in a group? Get in touch with us and let us craft a personalized tour through the charms and mysteries of Sintra. Furthermore, Move Sports organizes Sports Tours, Training camps, or Team Building activities that perfectly suit your preferences. Discover all that we can offer you today!
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