Nestled high above the town of Sintra, Pena Park offers an extraordinary journey through one of Portugal’s most mesmerizing landscapes. Spread across 85 hectares of lush, labyrinthine forest, winding trails, hidden lakes, and exotic plant life, the park is home to the iconic Pena Palace and several other fascinating attractions. A place where nature and artistry come together, Pena Park feels like stepping into a mystical, dreamlike world.
History of Pena Park
Pena Park was the brainchild of King Ferdinand II, who acquired the land surrounding Pena Palace in the 19th century and transformed it into a romantic park that reflected the ideals of the time. Designed in the Romanticist style, the park was meant to evoke the beauty of the natural world, enhanced by human creativity. King Ferdinand meticulously planned the park’s layout, filling it with exotic trees from all corners of the globe, creating winding paths, secretive groves, and captivating viewpoints. The result is a captivating blend of wild natural beauty and man-made artistry.
What to See in Pena Park
1. Pena Palace
Of course, no visit to Pena Park is complete without exploring its crowning jewel, the Pena Palace. This fantastical palace, with its vibrant colors, eclectic architecture, and fairy-tale-like turrets, stands atop a rocky hill, overlooking the park and offering sweeping views of the Sintra Mountains. The palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as a vivid reminder of Portugal’s Romantic era. Inside, visitors can explore the richly decorated royal chambers, grand halls, and terraces that once served the Portuguese royal family.
2. Chalet of the Countess of Edla
Hidden in the forest, the Chalet of the Countess of Edla is one of Pena Park’s most charming and whimsical spots. Built in 1869 by Elise Hensler, a Swiss opera singer who became Ferdinand II’s second wife, this romantic Alpine-style chalet feels like something straight out of a fairy tale. With its rustic woodwork, decorative cork accents, and beautifully landscaped garden, the chalet offers a serene escape and a glimpse into the private life of the royal couple.
3. Lakes of Pena
As you wander through the park’s meandering paths, you’ll encounter the Lakes of Pena—a series of small, tranquil lakes connected by charming stone bridges and dotted with ornate fountains. The lakes are framed by dense forest, creating a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can relax and enjoy the serenity of nature. Look out for the adorable duck houses, miniature architectural wonders sitting atop the water!
4. Cruz Alta (High Cross)
At 529 meters above sea level, Cruz Alta is the highest point in the park, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. A stone cross stands at this vantage point, marking the summit. The hike to Cruz Alta is a bit of a challenge but well worth it for the awe-inspiring vistas that await at the top. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and photographers looking to capture the park’s stunning landscapes from above.
5. The Queen’s Throne
Another viewpoint not to be missed is the Queen’s Throne, a stone bench perched high on a hill that overlooks Pena Palace. Legend has it that Queen Maria II loved to sit here and admire the palace from afar. The view of the palace’s colorful, fairy-tale silhouette framed by the lush greenery is truly magical and offers one of the best photo opportunities in the park.
6. The Valley of the Lakes
A walk through the Valley of the Lakes is like wandering through a secret garden. The lakes are surrounded by exotic trees and plants, which reflect beautifully in the water. You’ll often find swans and ducks gliding across the surface, adding to the tranquil atmosphere. This area is perfect for a peaceful, reflective stroll.
7. Exotic Flora and Trees
Pena Park is renowned for its diverse and exotic plant life. King Ferdinand II imported trees and plants from around the world, including North American sequoias, Himalayan cedars, Chinese ginkgo trees, and Australian ferns. Each section of the park offers a different ecosystem, from dense forests to open meadows, making it feel like you’re walking through multiple worlds. The carefully curated yet wild landscape is a testament to the Romanticist love for nature.
Dimensions and Layout
Covering 85 hectares (about 210 acres), Pena Park’s vast landscape feels like a world in itself. The park is designed in a flowing, organic manner, with winding paths that lead to hidden surprises at every turn. You can easily spend hours exploring the various sections, from the shady groves of ancient trees to the sun-dappled clearings by the lakes.
The park’s layout is somewhat circular, with the Pena Palace at its heart, surrounded by various gardens, viewpoints, and hidden corners. There are signposted trails of varying difficulty, so whether you want a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, there’s a path for you.
Practical Information: Admissions, Hours, and Tips
Opening Hours:
- Park: Daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM)
- Palace: Daily from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM)
Ticket Prices:
- Palace and Park Combined Ticket: €14 (Adults), €12.50 (Children 6-17), €12.50 (Seniors 65+)
- Park Only Ticket: €7.50 (Adults), €6.50 (Children 6-17), €6.50 (Seniors 65+)
- Family Ticket (2 adults + 2 children): €49 for Palace and Park / €26 for Park only
- Free entry for children under 5 years old.
Getting There:
Pena Park is located in the Sintra Mountains, about 30 kilometers from Lisbon. You can reach it by train from Lisbon’s Rossio Station to Sintra Station, followed by a short bus or taxi ride up to the park. The 434 tourist bus connects the station with the palace and park entrance.
Visitor Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes: The park’s terrain is hilly, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
- Bring a picnic: While there are cafés on-site, the park offers several beautiful spots where you can enjoy a quiet picnic surrounded by nature.
- Allow at least 3-4 hours for a full experience of both the park and the palace.
- Don’t miss the King Ferdinand II viewpoint, offering another fantastic panoramic view of the park and beyond.
Conclusion
Pena Park is an enchanting wonderland that brings together the best of nature, history, and Romanticist design. From the fairytale Pena Palace and the charming Chalet of the Countess to the tranquil lakes and breathtaking viewpoints, every corner of this vast park offers something new and captivating. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply in search of a magical day out, Pena Park in Sintra is an unforgettable destination.
