We enjoyed our trip to the Quinta da Regaleira in the hilltop town of Sintra so much that we went back this week to visit another of the fairytale palaces. The Palacio da Pena is even more extravagant with turrets, watch towers and battlements of pink, yellow and purple. Some may find it gaudy but we loved the over the top feel and playful creativeness.
This photo was taken from the Cruz Alta on a hill within the extensive Pena Park. It’s worth the walk up there for this panoramic view of the palace and the Sintra countryside.
I can’t believe I missed this place when I was in Portugal! Looking at this picture makes me want to go back there now!
Sintra is reason enough to visit Portugal. We went back twice and there are still so many other palaces and the castle to see. It’d be a peaceful place to spend a few days.
Great to see you’re enjoying Portugal… I’d love to visit Sintra…
Gorgeous photo! I’ve seen a few snaps of fairy tale palaces in Portugal recently – previously I hadn’t had it down as a place that had this kind of magic appeal to it, but my mind is a-changing. Thanks for sharing!
It surprised us too. Portugal definitely does over the top architecture well.
Sintra is absolutely magical! Went there with my parents over break from my study abroad program in Madrid in 2009 – loved it!