Day 4 Sintra, Castle of the Pena, trip to the Canary Islands, 16th January 2026

A vibrant, fairytale-like Romanticist castle perched on a hilltop, famous for its eclectic mix of Neo-Gothic, Neo-Manueline, Moorish, and Indian styles, colorful terraces, battlements, and fantastical towers, set within sprawling, mystical gardens that create a dreamy, storybook atmosphere. It was the vision of King Ferdinand II, the "King-Artist," transforming a ruined monastery into a whimsical summer residence with vivid colors and imaginative designs, making it a stunning expression of 19th-century Romanticism and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Spot Michael 

Looking out towards the Castle of Mouros

We hiked to the highest cross also on the beautiful grounds of the palace.

The different pools we encountered on our hike to the exit.

A very large tree

Other pools

On our hike back to the centre of Sintra we passed this beautiful house.

Awesome day in Sintra as we board the train for journey back to Lisboa, glad they delayed the departure allowing us and extra day here. The weather was considered inclement and not cruise weather therefore we only leave Lisboa tomorrow at 15:00.