It was hard to decide which picture to use for this day. There was a close competition between the castle Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra or a photo of the lighthouse at the end of the world (Cabo da Roca-the most western point of mainland Europe-next stop, New York).
I had a busy day today. As there is a lot to see and little time to do it I took the easy option of a day trip tour thing. First up, tush hour in Lisbon (something like an 8 car pile up on the motorway out if Lison). Then on to Sintra. A breakfast of bicca (espresso) and pastries (one made of a soft goats cheese and cinnomon and another with sweet egg yolk and almonds). Next stop, the castle. There are five castles in Sintra but I only had time for one (which I think is the most spectacular one, although I have no way to comparer with first hand knowledge). Anyway, the gardens were stunning. Fountains, waterfalls, wells and a private chapel. There were also underground tunnels that led you to the back of a waterfall or a grotto (and after one particuarly dark tunnel, to the bottom of a waterless well).
The inside of the castle was stunning-a complete rabbit warren of rooms and turrets. The highlight-the library on the top floor. Ornate carvings. Floor to ceiling bookcases. And strategically placed mirror effect which makes it look like you have a two story library and causes you to hesitate before stepping into the room (and onto what looks like a floating floor).
After the castle I tasted the local cherry liquer (love that stuff especially as it is served in little choc cups).
Onto the end of the world and a picnic lunch of cheese, choritzo, bread, olives and wine.
I then went to Chascais (surf beach not far out of Lison). Not too shabby for what could be considered a city beach. Some gelato (which has won the best gelato of the year award before-the owners are Italian and were brought over to Portugal during WWII when the Italian king fleed to Portugal). Then to Belem.
Belem is amazing. Its about 10mins from Lisbon. Has the worlds best custard pastey (yes, spent most of the day eating), a fortress (defence tower castle thing), monuments on the water front dedicated to Portugals discoveries of parts of the world and Jeronimos Monestary-an absolute work of art and opulence.
Then bed. I was knackered. And coming down with a cold (not to mention the mossie bites I still had from Venice-seriously driving me nuts.
Off to Spain tomorrow! And must visit Portugal again. I definatel want to see more (esp Porto, The wine region and the Algave).
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