I loved my stay in Jane's studio and can't wait to return and explore the area further. Sintra National Park is an extraordinary gem and I'm so happy I discovered it. I stayed in the wettest wildest winter weather Jane remembers in all her years living there, and I was still staggered by the beauty of the place. I loved collecting pine cones to use for kindling for the wood burner, and picking oranges from the tree by the swimming pool.
Jane was a great host, there when I needed her, a fount of fascinating local knowledge and wonderful stories, and also happy to leave me alone when I wanted to be a hermit. She has created several really lovely, comfortable, holiday spaces blending local antiques and modern fittings with style.
The studio is even nicer than the photos, well equipped and with plenty of space to DANCE!
Morning yoga in front of the huge windows overlooking the Serra down to the ocean is a memory I shall cherish. I hired a car but only used it to go to and from the airport, for an entire month I walked everywhere I needed to go.
As far as the Westernmost point in mainland Europe, Cabo da Roca.
The lush landscapes, medieval stone staircases woven through villages scattered down hillsides, the magical Capuchin’s monastery; I could wander for a century. The farmers market in Almoçageme is glorious, buying delicious food straight from the growers for bargain prices was a weekly delight. And the hilly scenic walk home helped to offset some of the kilos of delicious almond cookies I indulged in!
This is a fantastic base for rambling over hills and headlands, beaches and forests, exploring historical sights, or just staying still soaking up the wonderful view.