Hike to the Gems of Sintra, Lisbon

This was our favourite day of the trip! We hiked lots, and our guide Felis knew how to get us off the beaten path. We had a wonderful, quiet lunch spot on the trails with a stunning view of the palace. We explored the Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle and the Quinta da Regaleira (including the caves/tunnels). We were able to add on another hike at the end of the day, a trip to the coast to go to Praia da Ursa to drink wine, eat cheese and watch the sunset on the beach. I can't think of a more perfect way to end the day!

This was one of our favorite days of our vacation! Our guide, Nuno, made the trip. He was a genuinely nice and kind guy who made us feel special! From stopping by a local pastry shop on the way, to taking us on a secret hike to get a fantastic view of Pena Palace, he was the best! As a photographer, he even took a number of photos of us all day that he shared. He prepared us a picnic lunch to cap off the most memorable day!

Great guide. Adjusted pace to all of our levels. This was challenging and not for a beginner but not too advanced. Would have liked a little more information about what to bring, picnic, etc. Guides very personable, knowledgeable on history but not overwhelming. Made some suggestions to see some not so touristy sights. Wonderful.

Nice guided hike at comfortable pace with great views.

Our guide Felicie had an amazing smile and was a fabulous listener. His energy and love of his job was palpable. He was educated and extremely knowledgeable about our American culture. The conversation was uplifting and he had a natural inquisitive style in trying to understand long term relationships ( Traveling with my sister and brother-in law who have been married 36 years and my husband and I who have celebrated 42 years). The day went by too quickly.

Initially, we had a hike planned that unfortunately got cancelled due to the tragic wildfires that happened in Portugal at this time. Our hike got rescheduled to another area along the Sintra Coast. We got paired with Falis, and this might have been the best highlight of an already incredible trip. Falis prepared the hike according to us and what WE felt comfortable with. I am a 30 year old and I am in good shape. We did a roughly 15 km hike that was unlike anything I could have imagined. This was a private costal hike to a private beach and through small costal towns that was beyond anything I could have imagined. The terrain was tough but I can personally handle it. Felis was 100% prepared for anything and knew all the best routes that were the opposite of any “tourist” walk. I will never forget this experience. Felis is now a true friend after my experience. He even personally selected food for lunch and provided it to us. Unbelievably beyond my expectations.

We loved our guide. Jorge was fantastic and was very knowledgeable. The picnic he prepared for us was so cute. This tour only included the entrance to the castle. It was a nice long hike.

This full day tour was incredible. Sintra was like walking into a fairy tale. We had a misty, cool day, and the castle decided it didn't want to be seen during our visit ;( but exploring the grounds was amazing. There was something at every turn. we loved seeing all of the different plants and trees, and hearing (and seeing a few) birds. We asked for options to hike during our tour of Portugal, and this spot didn't disappoint. We opted to hike to the top near the old Moorish fort. It's a good 45 minute hike pretty much straight up. Coming down was a good workout as well. Sintra is definitely a hilly adventure and well worth it.

It was quite good. Dont bother though if you don tlike queues. The palace was horrendously busy and this is low season.