Sintra: Adventure Hike Around Sintras Most Popular Castles

Sintra’s stunning natural beauty and historic landmarks have captivated visitors for centuries. An adventure hike through the Sintra Natural Park is the perfect way to experience the region’s breathtaking sights. Covering 8 km, this guided trek takes explorers past iconic castles, palaces, and the charming village, offering unparalleled views and insights into Sintra’s rich history. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking a new outdoor adventure, this exhilarating experience promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• 3-hour guided hike through Sintra Natural Park, covering 8 km and highlighting Castelo dos Mouros, Palácio da Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, and Sintra National Palace.
• Priced at $71.15 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and includes a 30-minute coffee and pastry break in the historic village.
• Moderate to challenging hike with uphill and downhill sections, not suitable for individuals with mobility issues, respiratory problems, or certain medical conditions.
• Experienced guides available in English and Portuguese, providing historical insights and a customized experience with local flavor.
• Positive customer feedback on the quality of the tour, guides, and overall experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The adventure hike around Sintra’s castles is a 3-hour activity that covers an 8 km distance through the Sintra Natural Park.

A 3-hour hiking adventure that covers 8 km through the Sintra Natural Park.

Priced from $71.15 per person, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Reservations can be made with a “pay later” option.

Highlights include passing by the Castelo dos Mouros, Palácio da Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, and Sintra National Palace, with a 30-minute coffee and pastry break in the historic village.

The moderate to challenging hike isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, respiratory problems, or medical conditions.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting from the Church São Pedro de Sintra parking lot, the tour takes hikers on an adventure through Sintra’s stunning natural landscapes.

The first stop is a 10-minute pass by the Castelo dos Mouros, followed by the Palácio da Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Sintra National Palace.

After these castle sightings, the tour provides a 30-minute break for coffee and pastries in Sintra’s historic village.

The hike then concludes back at the starting point, the Church São Pedro de Sintra parking lot.

Tour Experience

Experienced guides, available in both English and Portuguese, lead the adventure hike around Sintra’s castles. They offer a customized experience, sharing the history and local flavor of the region.

The moderate to challenging hike includes up and downhill sections through Sintra Natural Park. However, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with low mobility, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo, respiratory issues, or pre-existing medical conditions.

With a private group option, hikers can expect magnificent views and a pleasant coffee break in Sintra’s historic village before returning to the starting point.

Customer Feedback

Based on the 5-star reviews, customers have praised the adventure hike around Sintra’s castles. Claudia from France highlighted the friendliness of guides Maya and Miguel, the magnificent views, and the local dining recommendations. Kristin from the United States praised the customized experience, local flavor, and historical insights provided by the guides, along with the pleasant coffee stop.

Customer	Location	Feedback
Claudia	France	Praised guides, views, dining recommendations
Kristin	United States	Highlighted customized experience, local flavor, history

The tour’s overall rating of 5/5 based on 2 reviews attests to the high-quality experience offered.

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Important Information

The meeting point for the adventure hike is the Church São Pedro de Sintra parking lot, which can be easily located using Google Maps.

High-heeled shoes, baby strollers, bikes, baby carriages, and crutches aren’t allowed on the hike due to the moderate to challenging terrain.

While the tour will pass by popular attractions like Castelo dos Mouros, Palácio da Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, and Sintra National Palace, separate fees apply for entry, which aren’t included in the tour cost.

Participants should be aware of these restrictions and entry policies prior to booking the adventure hike.

Preparing for the Hike

Participants on the adventure hike around Sintra’s castles should wear comfortable, well-fitting hiking shoes or boots with good traction. The trail includes moderate to challenging uphill and downhill sections, so sturdy footwear is essential.

Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable in the Sintra hills. Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, sunscreen, and any necessary medication. Leave valuables at home.

During the coffee break, there’ll be an opportunity to purchase additional refreshments. While the tour guide will provide historical information, entry fees to the castles aren’t included and must be paid separately if desired.

Exploring the Castles and Landmarks

As the group sets off on the hike, they’ll pass by several of Sintra’s iconic castles and landmarks.

First, they’ll catch a glimpse of the Castelo dos Mouros, a Moorish castle from the 8th century.

A Moorish castle from the 8th century, the Castelo dos Mouros offers a glimpse into Sintra’s rich architectural history.

Next, they’ll see the whimsical Palácio da Pena, a 19th-century Romanticist palace.

The group will then pass the Quinta da Regaleira, a stunning estate with elaborate gardens.

Finally, they’ll see the Sintra National Palace, a well-preserved 15th-century royal residence.

Though they won’t enter the attractions, these brief stops provide a taste of Sintra’s rich architectural and historical heritage.

Discovering Sintra’s Historic Village

After passing by the iconic castles and landmarks, the group looks forward to a much-needed break in Sintra’s historic village.

The guide leads the way to a charming café, where the hikers can enjoy:

• Traditional Portuguese pastries, like the famous Queijadas de Sintra
• A refreshing cup of rich, aromatic coffee
• Stunning views of the Palácio Nacional de Sintra
• An opportunity to soak in the quaint, historic atmosphere

With bellies full and energy restored, the group resumes the hike, eagerly anticipating the next phase of their adventure through Sintra’s stunning natural landscapes.

Since You Asked

Are Hiking Poles Provided for the Tour?

The tour does not provide hiking poles. Customers are responsible for bringing their own if they wish to use them during the moderate to challenging 8 km hike through Sintra Natural Park.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks?

Participants are allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks for the hike. The tour doesn’t provide meals, but there’s a 30-minute stop for coffee and pastries in Sintra’s historic village.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There is no minimum age requirement for participants on this tour. However, the hike is considered moderate to challenging, so it may not be suitable for young children or those with limited mobility. Participants should ensure they are physically capable of completing the 8km hike.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Water and Sun Protection?

Participants should bring their own water and sun protection, such as sunscreen and hats, for the 3-hour hike through Sintra Natural Park. The tour doesn’t provide these items, so it’s important to come prepared.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Landmarks?

Yes, the tour can be extended to visit additional landmarks. Guests can customize their experience by requesting more time at specific sites or adding extra stops. The tour provider offers flexibility to accommodate special interests.

The Sum Up

This exciting 3-hour adventure hike through Sintra Natural Park offers breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like Castelo dos Mouros and Palácio da Pena. Explore the historic village, savor a coffee and pastry break, and learn about rich local history guided by knowledgeable experts. It’s an exhilarating way to experience the beauty and charm of Sintra.

You can check availability for your dates here: