Sintra is a very romantic area near Lisbon, a refuge for the lonely
with enchanting scenery for friends and lovers alike. Home of
the delicious Sintra cheese-cakes, this is a charming region
that is well worth a visit. Monuments, sea and mountains get
together in one of the most perfect combinations imaginable.
Sintra's mountain ridge starts right on the heart of the 'Vila'
and ends into the Ocean, on the most western point of mainland
Europe, Cabo da Roca. Declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO,
Sintra was once home to the aristocracy who chose it to build
their palaces and mansion type houses. Before you leave Sintra,
make sure you visit the Royal Palace (Paço Real), the
National Palace of Pena (Palácio Nacional da Pena), the
Moors Castle (castelo dos Mouros), the Monserrate Palace and
its gardens (Palácio de Monserrate) and some of the museums,
like the most singular Toy Museum (Museu do Brinquedo) that displays
a fascinating collection of toys. Mysterious Sintra is unique
not only because of its many monuments, nature and beaches, but
also due to its peculiar characteristic alleys. A short walk
through some of these alleys almost feels like taking a step
back in time.
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