Looking up the (steep!) hill to the Pena Palace in Sintra. The Disney like palace rises out of the forest on top of the Serra da Sintra on its rocky outcrop.

For those who walked from the town this would be a very welcome sight after 5Km of this type of gradient

The Palacio Nacional (National Palace) dominates the view of the historic centre of Sintra.

This is the view from the ramparts of the Moorish Castle

Shops on the road opposite the Palacio Nacional in Sintra

Looking over to the Palacio Nacional (National Palace) in Sintra.

The palace has been added to by each generation since it started out in the 15th century. Perhaps the most notable addition is the twin chimneys rising from the kitchens.

You get an idea of the fairytale qualities of Sintra from the picture with the Palace, various towers, woods, elegant villas and the castle high above

Looking up at the National Palace in Sintra. The two towers are actually the chimneys for the kitchen and are used as the symbol for the town

The Nacional Palace (Palacio Nacional) in Sintra was built over many years with various additions. It was started back in the 15th century but the most distinctive feature came somewhat later - the 2 giant kitchen chimneys.

View from the newer end of Sintra over to the historic centre. To the left, on top of the Serra da Sintra is the Moorish Castle and to the right is the National Palace

A pretty little lane in Sintra

Direccao de Estrads do Distrio de Lisboa translates to something along the lines of Department of Roads for the Lisbon District. Somehow I think there might be a newer office somewhere!

A closer look at one of Sintra's beautful decaying town houses.