Beloved by Portuguese royalty and English nobility, its thick forest and startling architecture provide a complete change from Lisbon which is one hour south of Sintra by train.

The very colorful Palacio da Pena.  All the original furnishing still reside inside, but unfortunately, no photos are allowed.

Castelo dos Mouros,  a 3 km climb.  This castle was never conquered and was used mainly as an outpost to protect Lisbon.  Now, this is a manly-man castle - high on a mountain, impenetrable &  medieval stone guard towers.  Now! "That's what I'm talkin' about"!  This castle is just groovy!