The Santuário da Peninha is a mystery and mostly unknow place in Sintra, which offers some of the best views in Portugal. Everyone who searches for stunning sceneries will love this place, as you can see the ocean and the land stretching far away.
Legend and history of Santuário da Peninha
The Peninha Sanctuary is sitting at 488 meters above sea level on a rocky mountain within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, where the architectural complex includes the old and baroque chapel of Nossa Senhora da Penha as wells as the romantic-revivalist palace. Especially, the historic palace looks like a palace in the fairy tale and was build in 1918 by António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro, who also build the Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra.
Moreover, there is a legend of the Peninha Sanctuary. It tells the story of a mute shepherdess during King João III’s reign who, after losing a sheep, encountered a mysterious lady. Then, this mysterious lady restored her speech and provided the shepherdess with bread enough for her and the entire village. After the legend, this miracle led to the establishment of the chapel.
Wild horses and beautiful views over the ocean
Although the interiors of the chapel and palace are not open to the public, you can walk the terraces around the palace. From there, you have wonderful views over the Portuguese coastline and the interior landscapes.
When you’re on highest point of the Santuário da Peninha, you have even a more panoramic view over Pena, Cabo da Roca, Cascais, Praia do Guincho and Azenhas do Mar. And if the weather permits, you can even see the 25 de Abril bridge and Cristo Rei in Lisbon.
Furthermore, you can take a circular walk through the Sintra National Park. You can just start on the top of the Sintra mountain by the Santuário da Peninha, where the path wanders through rocky terrains and beautiful fields. And if you’re lucky enough like we were, you will even spot wild horses in the middle of the fields.
Moreover, the path showcases the best of the Sintra mountains, including breathtaking views over the Guincho beach as well as the Sintra coast.
Secret place in Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
If you’re looking for a unique and peaceful day out in nature, the Santuário da Peninha is a must-visit in Sintra. Especially, the incredible views over the Portuguese coastlines, the Pena Palace and the inner landscapes of Sintra are reasons enough to visit this magical place.
Good to know: Reaching the Santuário da Peninha requires a car or bike, as there is no public transport. In addition, be careful of the wind at the top of the sanctuary.
Portugal Undiscovered 