Some experiences in Sintra are crowded, rushed and expensive. This one is the opposite.
“From the Sweet to the Summit” is a small-group, guided walking tour through the historic centre and the hills of Sintra, designed for travellers who value context, pace and quality. It combines local gastronomy, heritage interpretation and carefully chosen walking routes – the kind of experience that is usually priced well above a standard walking tour.
Instead of a fixed ticket price, participation is based on a solidarity contribution chosen by each participant, with a minimum donation of €20, transferred directly to a local association. The idea is simple: offer a high-quality guided experience and let participants decide what it is worth to them, knowing that their contribution has an immediate social impact.
By joining this walk, participants are not only discovering one of Portugal’s most iconic landscapes at a human pace, but also supporting a local organisation working daily with tangible results in the community.
A walk that connects flavour, nature and heritage
The walk starts in the historic centre of Sintra, directly in front of the Palácio Nacional de Sintra, and follows a scenic route through the hills of the Sintra Natural Park.
This is a moderate-level walking tour, ideal for travellers with reasonable mobility who enjoy active experiences. The route includes a steady ascent, shaded forest paths and panoramic viewpoints, making it both rewarding and immersive.
What is included in the experience
Participants enjoy a fully organised and guided experience:
- Professional guided walking tour
- All entrance tickets to visited sites
- Traditional breakfast tasting
- Ginjinha liqueur tasting at the end of the walk
Breakfast includes one Travesseiro de Sintra pastry and one coffee per person, served at the historic Piriquita.
Detailed itinerary: from the sweet to the summit
Meeting point: Largo Rainha Dona Amélia, in front of the Sintra National Palace
09:00 – Breakfast at Piriquita
Group welcome and tasting of the famous Sintra Travesseiro, providing energy for the walk ahead.
09:45 – Start of the ascension
Climb through Vila Sassetti, a romantic trail featuring fountains, stone paths and lush vegetation.
10:30 – Entrance through the Valley of the Lakes
Entry into Pena Park via the lake area, where exotic trees, ducks and swans create a fairytale-like atmosphere.
11:00 – Guided visit: park and terraces
Guided interpretation focused on the exterior architecture and terraces of the Palácio da Pena, with time to enjoy the sweeping views over Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean.
12:30 – Descent towards Sabuga
A peaceful descent through dense forest, offering shade and a quieter perspective of the Serra de Sintra.
13:15 – Ginjinha of honour at Sabuga
Final stop at the Sabuga Fountain for a traditional ginjinha tasting and the official closing of the event.
13:30 – End of the walk
Practical information for participants
- Fitness level: Moderate
- Total duration: Approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes
- What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing
- Languages: The tour may be conducted in English and Portuguese, depending on the group
- Price: €30 per person
Travellers interested in exploring more of Sintra can also read our complete guide on what to do in the area.
Walking with purpose in Sintra
This solidarity walk is more than a sightseeing experience. It is an invitation to slow down, connect with Sintra’s landscapes and traditions, and give something back along the way.
Places are limited to ensure a high-quality guiding experience and a relaxed group atmosphere. To explore similar experiences or private options in Sintra, click here.
For bookings or further information, please contact Portugal Guided Tours directly.
About the chosen charity – Associação Vida Autónoma
The Associação Vida Autónoma is a Portuguese non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting independent living and social inclusion for people with disabilities. Its work focuses on autonomy, equal opportunities and active participation in society, helping individuals lead fuller and more independent lives.
By taking part in this solidarity walk, participants are directly supporting initiatives that have a tangible and positive impact on the local community.
Common questions about the solidarity walk in Sintra
Is this walk suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable walking for several hours and tackling a steady uphill section. No technical hiking skills are required.
Are children allowed to join?
Children used to walking and outdoor activities are welcome, but parents should consider the length and elevation of the route.
Is the Palácio da Pena visited inside?
The visit focuses on the exterior architecture, terraces and viewpoints. Interior rooms are not included in this walk.
What happens in case of bad weather?
In the event of severe weather conditions, Portugal Guided Tours will contact participants in advance with alternative options or rescheduling information.
How does the donation work?
There is no fixed ticket price. Each participant chooses their solidarity contribution, with a minimum donation of €20. The amount is transferred directly to the chosen local association, ensuring transparency and immediate social impact.