24 Trips to Explore in 2024See the List
Duration
8 days
Activities
  • self guided walk
Accommodation
  • 7 nights hotel
Meals
  • 7 Breakfasts

Price

$890USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: UPP

Trip highlights


  • Discover the unique and historic town of Sintra
  • Exploring Sintra's decorative and flamboyant palaces, mansions and gardens
  • Visiting the most popular summer residence for the families of Portuguese rulers and noblemen
  • Walking through fields, vineyards and forested hills to the rugged and dramatic coastline with its pretty fishing villages
  • Enjoying easy walks along coastal trails

Set amidst the pine-blanketed hills of the Serra de Sintra, Sintra has been plucked straight from a book of fairytales. Explore the former summer residences of the nobility of Portugal and its impressive Manor houses and national monuments over the course of a week. Arriving in Sintra, discover this unique and historic town, which punches well above its weight in terms of historic monuments and tourist attractions. Its elaborate 19th century design style was inspired by the mysticism of ancient cultures, and is Europe's finest example of the whimsical and colourful Romanticism architecture. Take your time exploring Sintra's decorative and flamboyant palaces, mansions and gardens, including the Palácio da Peno, Castelo de Mouro, the Palacio Nacional and hidden gems like the Arabic-inspired Palacio de Monserrate. Leave the crowds behind and transfer to a 16th century Franciscan monastery, which you'll have the opportunity to view before setting off on a walk through the mystical Mediterranean woodlands to Azoia. Traverse fields, vineyards and the forested hills of the Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais to the rugged and dramatic coastline, which is dotted with pretty fishing villages, glorious sandy beaches, interesting rock formations including the "Boca do Inferno" (Hell's Mouth) and the most westerly point of mainland Europe, the "Cabo da Roca", whose raw beauty, epitomised by raging seas and wind-blasted cliffs, makes it a memorable detour to top off a week of diversity.

Trip Grading

introductory to moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Make your own way to Sintra and your hotel, located just outside Sintra’s town centre. Sintra is a picturesque town in the pine-covered hills of the Serra de Sintra. In 1995, UNESCO classified the area a World Heritage Cultural Landscape, the first to receive this category in Europe. Overnight Sintra. Note: Reception at our usual hotel is open until 7pm - if you are arriving later than this time please let us know at the time of booking.

Meals:  Nil

Your walking tour today takes in the three most prominent monuments of Sintra: Castelo de Mouro (Castle of the Moors), Palacio da Pena and the Palacio Nacional. To start, there's a steep ascent to the Moorish castle and the colourful palace of King Ferdinand, followed by a walk in the vast palace grounds. You then descend steeply and continue via Vila Sasseti to the town centre of Sintra, where you'll find the Palacio Nacional, the main residence of Portugal's royal nobility from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Overnight Sintra. 9.3km/5.8mi, +475m/1558ft -475m/1558ft

Meals:  B

Today you leave the crowds behind, with a transfer at 9:30am to the Convento dos Capuchos, a classic example of an austere 16th-century Franciscan monastery, which you can visit before heading off for your walk. The walking route leads you through mystical Mediterranean woodlands, past hillside menhirs and the shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary of Peninha. You then descend to Azoia where you can stop for lunch and later take the bus back to Sintra and your hotel. 11.5 km/7.8 mi, +425m/1394ft -500m/1640ft

Meals:  B

In the 19th and early 20th centuries a Romantic wind blowing through Europe was strongly felt in Sintra. Within a few square kilometres you will find extravagant palaces and mansions built by nobles and wealthy merchants, three of which can be visited: the Palacio Biester, Quinta Regaleira and Palacio Montserrate. Take extended strolls to the palaces and through their gardens. 5-7.5km/3.2-4.7mi, +250-375m/820-1230ft -300-425m/984-1394ft

Meals:  B

Today you leave the wealth and romance of Sintra behind as you walk north through fields, vineyards and pine forests toward the rugged coast. You can walk directly from Sintra to your hotel in Praia Grande, or transfer north to Amoreira (bus or taxi, payable locally) from where the walk is more hilly and adventurous, with less paved road and an extra 4km of coastline. Both routes meet in the pretty fishing village of Azenha do Mar, from where you pick up the GR11 trail and follow it south to your beachfront hotel on the "Praia Grande" in Colares. 14.9km/9mi or 16km/10mi, +300m/984ft -500m/1640ft

Meals:  B

From your hotel you follow the long-distance walking path, the GR11 "Costa Atlantica", heading south along fishermen’s trails towards the village of Ulgueira. There are beautiful views of the Cabo de Roca - the westernmost point of the European continent - and nice sandy beaches along the way. After a drink or ice cream in Ulgeira, return to Praia Grande and your hotel via an inland route which passes through the authentic village of Almoçageme. 13.5km/8.4mi, +475m/1558ft -550m/1804ft

Meals:  B

Your last walking day begins with a transfer at 9:30am to Azoia, where you again pick up the GR11 and follow it along the coast to the 17th-century fortress of "Fortaleza de Guincho", now a luxury hotel, with views over Praia do Guincho. You can stop off part way (after 8km, 2.5-3 hrs walking) and take the bus directly to Cascais, or walk all the way to your hotel (on a footpath between the road and beach). Cascais is a lovely seaside town with cobblestoned streets lined with restaurants and shops. Overnight in Cascais. 16.6km/10.3mi, +275m/902ft -475m/1558ft

Meals:  B

Your trip concludes after breakfast. You can travel back to Lisbon by public transport (train, one hour) or by private transfer - please ask for our rates.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 7 breakfasts - breakfasts will be buffet style
  • 7 nights in 2-3 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Luggage transfers on days 5 and 7, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
  • Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps and guidebook per room booked
  • Transfers as described (days 3 & 7)
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Sintra and from Cascais
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Excess Luggage
  • Hotel taxes if applicable – payable directly to the hotel
  • Items of a personal nature

Accommodation


Grading

introductory to moderate  

INTRODUCTORY TO MODERATE – GRADE 2 This is a self guided walk with average daily stages of 4.5 to 17.5km (3-5hrs excluding breaks). The trip is graded introductory to moderate as it is on hilly to mountainous areas using well kept, sometimes stony paths. The use of walking sticks is optional. A reasonable level of fitness is required. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, and jogging, two to three times a week for three months prior to your departure.


Departure dates

Daily

Notes

M
Mid Season
H
High Season
Note:
High season is from 26 Jun to 30 Sep. Mid season is from 25 Mar to 25 Jun, 1 to 31 Oct, supplement applies
DN2
.

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$890USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Single supplement - low seasonUSD$540
  • Solo traveller supplement - low seasonUSD$540
  • Single supplement - mid seasonUSD$660
  • Solo traveller supplement - mid seasonUSD$660
  • Single supplement - high seasonUSD$740
  • Solo traveller supplement - high seasonUSD$870
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

Similar trips

Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips