The heart of active recreation in Sintra is undoubtedly the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park (Sintra-Cascais Natural Park). This vast protected area, covering more than 14,000 hectares, is a true paradise for trekkers and nature lovers. The park offers countless activities, from easy walks to challenging mountain hikes.

One of the most popular trails in the park is the route leading to Rio da Mula. This scenic trail winds through dense eucalyptus forests and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills. The trail is relatively easy and well-marked, making it ideal for families with children. Along the path you can encounter numerous species of birds and admire the lush vegetation typical of the region. It's worth bringing your camera to capture the magical moments when the sun's rays break through the treetops.

For slightly more experienced hikers, we recommend the route to Barragem do Rio da Mula. This picturesque hydroelectric dam, hidden in the heart of the park, is the perfect place to picnic and relax after an intense trek. The trail leading to the dam is a bit more challenging, but you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the calm surface of the water. It's also a great place to watch birds and other wildlife.

However, the real challenge for thrill-seekers is Pedra Amarela Campo Base. It's an outdoor activity center, offering not only trekking trails, but also opportunities for extreme sports such as climbing and zip-lining. The trails leading to Pedra Amarela are more challenging, but offer unforgettable views of the Atlantic coast and surrounding mountains. This is the perfect place for those who are looking for an adrenaline rush and want to combine trekking with other outdoor activities.

The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is a place where there is something for everyone, from leisurely walks to family outings and extreme adventures. It is worth remembering to prepare properly before setting out on the trail - comfortable trekking shoes, a supply of water and snacks, and a map of the area are the basis for a successful trip. Also remember to respect nature and follow the rules of the park.

Sintra is not only dense forests and mountain trails. The region also offers beautiful trekking routes along the Atlantic coast, which allow you to combine active recreation with relaxation on the beach. One of the most scenic coastal trails is the Trilho São Julião.

Trilho São Julião is a trail about 6 kilometers long, running along the cliff coast. The trail begins in the charming fishing village of São João das Lampas and leads to Praia de São Julião beach. The route offers spectacular views of the ocean, steep cliffs and wild beaches. Along the way, you can admire the rich flora and fauna characteristic of the region, including rare species of seabirds.

The trail is relatively easy and well-marked, making it suitable for both experienced hikers and families with children. However, it is worth remembering to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can be rocky or slippery after rain. The route offers many viewpoints where you can take a break, have a picnic and feast your eyes on the ocean panorama.

One of Trilho São Julião's greatest assets is the ability to combine trekking with relaxing on the beach. Praia de São Julião, the destination of the tour, is a beautiful, wide beach surrounded by cliffs. It's the perfect place to relax after a hike, take a dip in the ocean or just enjoy a lazy sunbath. However, it's worth remembering that the Atlantic waters in this area can be quite chilly and rough, so caution should always be exercised.

For those looking for longer routes, Trilho São Julião can be combined with other coastal routes to create a full-day excursion. Look out for routes such as Trilho das Azenhas do Mar and Trilho da Praia Grande, which also offer spectacular coastal views.

Hiking along the Sintra coast is not only an active vacation, but also an opportunity to learn about local culture and traditions. Along the way, you can visit picturesque fishing villages, enjoy fresh seafood in coastal restaurants or learn about the region's history in small local museums.

Keep in mind that when trekking along the coast, be extra careful, especially on windy days. Always stick to marked trails and don't get too close to the edge of the cliffs. It's also a good idea to check the weather forecast before setting out on the trail, as conditions along the coast can change quickly.

To fully enjoy an active vacation in Sintra, it's worth keeping in mind a few practical tips for exploring the region safely and comfortably.

First, proper preparation before setting out on the trail is key. Whether you're taking a short walk in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park or planning a full-day excursion along the coast, comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes are a must. It's also a good idea to bring layered clothing - the weather in Sintra can be changeable, especially in the mountain and coastal areas.

A supply of water and snacks is another important consideration. Although you can find refreshment facilities in popular areas, such as around Barragem do Rio da Mula or Pedra Amarela Campo Base, on more remote trails this can be a problem. So it's always a good idea to carry enough provisions with you.

An area map or GPS route app is an invaluable aid, especially on less traveled trails. It's also worth checking the opening hours of parks and preserves - some areas may be closed after dark or at certain times of the year.

If you're planning a longer trip, consider staying overnight in or around Sintra. The city offers a wide range of accommodations - from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses and campsites. An overnight stay in Sintra will allow us to set out on the trail early in the morning and avoid the crowds of tourists.

Let's also remember to respect nature and the local community. The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is a protected area, so it's important not to stray from designated trails, leave trash or disturb wildlife. On trails such as Trilho São Julião, which pass through inhabited areas, respect the privacy of local residents and maintain silence.

For families with children, we recommend routes of lower difficulty, such as the trails around Rio da Mula or the shorter sections of Trilho São Julião. It's a good idea to plan frequent breaks and prepare games or activities to make the hike more enjoyable for children.

If you're looking for more challenging trails, consider hiring a local guide. Especially for lesser-known trails in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, a guide can not only ensure safety, but also share fascinating information about local wildlife and history.

Finally, it is worth mentioning the weather. Although Sintra enjoys a mild climate for most of the year, it's worth checking the forecast before setting out on a trail. Particularly in winter, the trails can be slippery and muddy, and there can be strong winds on the coast.

An active vacation in Sintra is an unforgettable experience that allows you to combine exploration of beautiful nature with learning about the region's rich history and culture. Whether you choose a leisurely walk in the woods or a challenging hike along the cliffs, Sintra has something to offer for every outdoor enthusiast.