Sunday, our last full day in Portugal. There was one last thing I wanted to see while here and that was Sintra. It’s about 40 minutes outside of Lisbon so you have to make distinct plans. I began the booking search as soon as we arrived here on Thursday evening and was almost out of luck as many tours were already fully booked.

But manage it I did! I got a tour set for the three of us plus bought the necessary entry tickets online. Whew! So this morning we hoofed it out of the apartment by 0700 and headed about a km away to the meeting point by the light of a waning full moon. A crowd soon gathered. I cringed as the last thing I wanted was a bus load of fellow tourists. But joy was to be had! A van pulled up, out came a guide called Miguel, and he asked only for Sharon and her companions! Yay! There was only one other couple already in the van, from Florida. That was it!

Off we drove in the early morning light and fog. As we neared the area around Sintra the road became narrower and steeper and with many tight curves. I could see why all the sites say not to drive yourself there. Our first stop was Pena Palace. If you’ve ever heard of Sintra, this is the place that comes to mind. A colorful palace built on a rocky hill. It began as a monastery then was added onto as a summer home for a Portuguese princess.

The morning was so foggy that we could barely see it as we stood in line for it to open to the public. Miguel knew what he was doing all day with the timing of things as everywhere we went was crazy busy with tourists, but we came at the optimal time.

But enter we did, gawking at the buildings and all the ornamentation. It was rather boggling. Through the fog we were getting more and more areas to see and admire. Buildings in yellow and red and black and white towers. A huge trident over a gateway with so much symbolism. Even the windows surrounding it, while at first glance appeared the same, were actually all slightly different.

We were able to wander and admire at will. There was one unusual place after another. The original chapel is still in tact. Fortunately the fog began lifting to give us better views.

After we had seen enough, Miguel drove us to the city of Sintra. We were given time to wander the main city streets, predominately in the former Jewish enclave.

We had tickets for Quinta da Regaleira, which was within walking distance. So off we went in search for the entrance. It was further than we expected but find it we did. Along with a long line. We were able to enter on time and walk at will. It is known for all the symbolism relating to alchemy, masonry and the Knights Templar, all interests of the owner. It was rather confusing, as the markings were scarce. Eventually we found the main attraction, the Initiation Well.

It’s basically a spiral staircase into the earth, and depending on which direction you go you’re considered descending into Mother Earth or making an ascent into the light. Death and rebirth. It was really an amazing thing to walk through – we began at the top and wound our way down. It ended by us walking out through caves. Fascinating.

We met back up with Miguel and the other couple. Off he drove us toward the coast. We stopped for a view of the Atlantic and the point furthest west of Europe. We then drove into Cascais, a rather posh seaside city. We were able to have a late lunch there, roam a bit then we sat on the beach to enjoy the sunny afternoon and people watch.

We are now back at the apartment packing up, ready for our flights home tomorrow.