Short train ride out of Lisbon and into the hills we went. Or should I say mountains. Bus ride from station up to the palace entrance was scary …. For us …. And for anyone else who thought driving, cycling or even jogging up the mountain was a good idea. On the way down a lady walking her dog had all sorts of problems as the bus charged towards her as she was pinned close to a wall …… and the dog decided to run for its life. After being in the bus for both the up and down trips, the dog was the smart one and I needed a calming beer. I now have 2 fears …. Heights and crazy bus drivers.

 

Anyway, bus trip was not all the way to the palace. We still had a decent steep walk for the last part and enjoyed the crisp mountain air …. Or what I call cold wind and mist. Once at the top you could not see a thing. But the mist and wind sounds through the trees gave the palace a strange kind of charm sitting above all the townsfolk below in Sintra.

This palace had stories of kings, monks and incredible architecture. It was not a castle, but a decorative royal palace that had an amazing history. Here is a sample of photos to give you some of the views we  found while walking around avoiding the wind chill. And of course, there was time for a selfie.

Finished with a snack at the palace cafe. So now I can say that I have dined at the Pena Palace. And I enjoyed the most interesting sausage roll. I shall simply describe it as a hot dog inside pastry. But I guess if it is good enough for Portugese royalty ……. Then it is good enough for me.