Photography Itinerary
Another perspective of Sintra
Park and Palace of Pena Moorish Castle
More than just an image, a good photograph acts as the mirror of a moment and a feeling. Let yourself be enchanted by the contrasting light and colours of Sintra, true gifts to the camera lens, capturing a past that is distant yet still so close you can feel it.
Morning
Our day starts early at the highest point of the hills at High Cross. Take advantage of the first rays of sun on the horizon to ignite your imagination. The light's reflection shines over Pena, with yellow, pink and red tones illuminating a charming setting where nature and architecture come together in a perfect symbiosis.
High Cross
We start the day at the Main Gate of the Park of Pena to climb to the highest point of the mountain, at an altitude of 529 metres. Take advantage of the first rays of sun on the horizon to ignite your imagination. The dawning day shines over the Palace, offering yellow and red tones that illuminate a charming setting where nature and architecture merge in perfect harmony.
St Catherine’s Heights
Also known as the 'Queen's Throne', this was one of Queen Amelia's favourite places. With a throne carved in rock, this viewpoint offers a unique view of the Palace and its colours.
Temple of Columns
You cannot help but admire the sunshine that passes through the majestic columns of this temple and the surrounding forest. Take advantage of this place at an early hour to best admire the forms sculpted by the rays of morning light.
Palace of Pena Monumental Door
This majestic fortified arch marks the entrance to the access tunnel to the residential wings of the palace. This is an ideal place to admire the patterns and textures of the decorative motifs of this unique architectural heritage.
Palace of Pena Round Path
Take the path over the outer walls of the Palace and enjoy views of the unique landscape over the Moorish Castle and the plains of the Sintra Valley that reach all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.
Palace of Pena Courtyard of Arches
This spacious courtyard provides an architecturally framed view, with a strong contrast between the yellow of the arches and the blue of the ocean.
Palace of Pena Triton’s Terrace
The imposing Triton, a legendary and typically medieval figure, appears as the guardian of this tunnel.
Queen’s Fern Valley
In honour of Queen Amelia, the last Queen of Portugal, this site contains exotic fern species, including several Australian and New Zealand arboreal fern species. The exuberance of the plants makes this a magical place.
Giant Cedar
At around 150 years old, this giant tree is one of the most remarkable elements of the Park of Pena. Native to the northwest coast of North America, the peculiar shape of its canopy makes it one of the most photographed trees in Portugal.
Chalet Stones
This monumental set of granite blocks is an important scenic element of the Garden of the Countess. Its benches and various look out points allow you to admire this space and offer a stunning view of the Palace of Pena and the Chalet of the Countess of Edla.
Chalet of the Countess of Edla
In a perfect scenographic setting, the Chalet created as a refuge and recreational space for King Ferdinand II and his second wife, Elise Hensler, the Countess of Edla.
Valley of the Lakes
The Valley of the Lakes is a mirror of the harmony struck between the green of nature and the purity of the water which reflects the rays of sunlight passing through the leaves.
TARDE
Quite different from the other noble and manor houses of Sintra, the Moorish Castle allows us to dive deeply into the history of the region through the secrets held in its walls.
Ring of Castle Walls
This walk along the walls offers a unique view over the National Palaces of Pena and Sintra. Get ready to take many panoramic photographs.
Royal Tower
There are 200 steps to reach the Royal Tower, the highest point of the Castle. Find inspiration in King Ferdinand II's favourite place to paint.
Silos
These structures were once used for the storage of grains and legumes by Muslim populations. Their characteristic forms provide a unique photo opportunity.
Important information
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