Pena Park in Sintra, Portugal is a stunning and unique UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the Sintra Mountain Range. This park is home to the iconic Pena Palace, built in the 19th century by Ferdinand II. Pena Park is full of lush vegetation, gardens, and incredible views of the surrounding area. With so much to explore, here are 10 of the best things to do in Pena Park.
1. Visit the Pena Palace
The Pena Palace is the main attraction of Pena Park. This stunning palace was built in the 19th century by Ferdinand II and is a mix of Neo-Gothic and Neo-Manueline architecture. Inside the palace, visitors can explore the various rooms and admire the ornate decorations. There are also guided tours available for those who want to learn more about the palace’s history.
2. Hike the Trails
Pena Park is home to numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. These trails provide visitors with stunning views of the surrounding area and the opportunity to explore the park’s lush vegetation. Some of the trails even lead to hidden waterfalls and other natural wonders.
3. Visit the Moorish Castle
The Moorish Castle is one of the oldest monuments in Pena Park. This castle dates back to the 9th century and is a great example of Moorish architecture. Visitors can explore the castle’s ruins and get a glimpse of its history.
4. Visit the Capuchos Convent
The Capuchos Convent is a 16th-century monastery located in Pena Park. This monastery was once home to a group of Franciscan monks and is now open to visitors. Inside the monastery, visitors can explore the various rooms and admire the beautiful architecture.
5. Explore the Gardens
Pena Park is home to numerous gardens, including the Pena Palace Gardens, the Moorish Castle Gardens, and the Capuchos Convent Gardens. These gardens are full of lush vegetation, colorful flowers, and unique sculptures. Visitors can also explore the various pathways and admire the views.
6. Visit the Toy Museum
The Toy Museum is located inside the Pena Palace and is a great place to explore the history of toys. The museum features a variety of antique toys, including dolls, cars, and trains. Visitors can also learn about the history of toy-making in Portugal.
7. Visit the Observatory
The Observatory is located at the top of the Pena Palace and provides stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the various telescopes and learn about astronomy.
8. Visit the Chapel of St. John
The Chapel of St. John is located inside the Pena Palace and was built in the 19th century. This chapel is a great example of Neo-Gothic architecture and features beautiful stained glass windows. Visitors can also explore the various rooms and admire the intricate decorations.
9. Have a Picnic
Pena Park is the perfect place to have a picnic. Visitors can bring a blanket and enjoy a meal while admiring the stunning views of the surrounding area.
10. Take a Boat Ride
Pena Park is located on the Sintra River and visitors can take a boat ride to explore the area. This boat ride provides stunning views of the park and the opportunity to spot various wildlife.
Pena Park is a stunning and unique UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Sintra, Portugal. This park is home to numerous attractions, including the Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and the Capuchos Convent. With so much to explore, visitors are sure to find something to do in Pena Park.