
Off the beaten path - Sintra's hidden gems: 2 Casal de Pianos
Casal de Pianos Circualar walk: 3 hours Catrivana Roman bridge and road - Casal de Pianos - Praia de Samarra - Prehistoric hill top village - Catrivana One of Serra de Sintra's best kept secrets. A geological phenomena in one of the most stunning parts of the national park. I followed the Roman road from Catribana to the old quarry, which is just south of Praia da Samarra. A shepherd's shelter (above) in front of the huge basalt formation. A quick search on the web shows th

Off the beaten path - Sintra's hidden gems: 1 Fonte dos Romeiros, Peninha
Fonte dos Romeiros Circualar walk 2.5 hours: Malviera (4 Moinhos to Peninha) A 16th century spring that must have been a very welcome sight for the all those pilgrims making their way to Peninha. It's tucked away under the hill which makes it difficult to see from Peninha itself. It is on the main signposted trails from Malveira.

Picnicking in the best of Sintra
1. LAGO AZUL (above) The old favourite. Best avoided after lunch at the weekends as it's become the spot for non-beach goers. Easy access and parking nearby. 2. MONGE (above) Picknicking near the ancient site is a wonderful experience allowing you to soak up the very special atmosphere. There is some current activity of worship in this area! It's a pleasant walk from Peninha or even from Malveria. 3. Quinta do Pisão (above) Wander around the park and chose your picnic spot -