Wine Tour & Lunch By the Sea in Sintra

Explore Sintra with a Wine and Food Tour from Lisbon

This Wine Tour & Lunch By the Sea in Sintra offers a full day of indulgence, combining wine tasting, local cuisine, and iconic sights in the Sintra area. Priced at $209.53 per person, the tour spans approximately 8 to 9 hours, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed yet enriching day trip from Lisbon. The tour features hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a smooth experience without the hassle of driving. It is designed for those who appreciate good wine, delicious food, and scenic landscapes, with the added benefit of flexibility to customize the itinerary.

This private tour is perfect for travelers seeking a stress-free, immersive way to explore Sintra’s wineries, historic sites, and coastal scenery, all while savoring the local flavors. With a 5.0/5 rating based on a recent review, it clearly appeals to those looking for a personalized and well-organized experience. However, note that lunch is not included in the price, but the tour includes food and wine tastings, along with transportation and guided commentary.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience with hotel pickup and drop-off in Lisbon
• Includes wine tasting at Portugal’s oldest cooperative cellar, Adega Regional de Colares
• Visit scenic locations like the Serra de Sintra, Pena Palace, and Castelo dos Mouros
• Enjoy a seaside lunch at Praia Das Macas, right on the beach
• Flexible itinerary that can be tailored to preferences
• Cost is $209.53 per person, with group discounts available

Scenic Drives and Iconic Sintra Sights

The tour begins with a pickup from Lisbon, transporting your group comfortably in a private vehicle to the Sintra region. The first stop takes you to the Serra de Sintra, part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, renowned for its environmental beauty and lush landscape. This area offers sweeping views and a peaceful setting that highlights the region’s natural charm.

Next, the visit includes the Pena Palace, perched atop one of Sintra’s highest peaks. Built in the 19th century, the palace features an eclectic mix of architectural styles. Its colorful exterior and intricate design make it a highlight for visitors. The guide shares insights about its history and architecture, enriching the experience of standing amid Sintra’s famous palatial skyline.

A visit to the Castelo dos Mouros completes the trio of historical stops. This 8th-century Moorish castle was conquered in 1147 and offers fantastic views of the Pena Palace and the Atlantic coast. The castle’s ancient walls and towers provide an atmospheric look into Sintra’s medieval past, making it a must-see for history buffs.

Coastal Lunch at Praia Das Macas

After exploring the mountain peaks and castles, the tour heads to Praia Das Macas, a charming beach known for its apple roots—the name derives from apples washed ashore carried by the Colares stream. Here, visitors get to enjoy a lunch at a Portuguese restaurant, selected by the tour operator for its ideal seaside setting. The lunch offers a chance to unwind, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and enjoy local seafood and regional specialties.

The stop at the beach lasts about an hour, giving ample time to relax and take in the coastal scenery. It’s important to note that admission tickets for the beach are not included, but the lunch is part of the overall experience, expertly arranged to maximize enjoyment.

Wine Tasting at Portugal’s Oldest Cooperative Cellar

The highlight for wine lovers is the visit to Adega Regional de Colares, Portugal’s oldest cooperative winery established in 1931. The cooperative specializes in vinification of grapes from local farms, ensuring authentic regional flavors. The wine tasting session lasts approximately two hours, during which guests sample local variants and learn about the winemaking process.

This private visit allows for a more intimate experience compared to larger tours, with knowledgeable staff guiding the tasting and sharing insights into the region’s unique wine varieties. The inclusion of alcoholic beverages and bottled water adds to the enjoyment, making this stop a key highlight for those who appreciate good wine and want to deepen their understanding of Portugal’s wine heritage.

Discovering Sintra’s Natural and Architectural Treasures

Beyond the scenic views and the castles, the tour’s itinerary emphasizes Sintra’s environmental richness. While the Serra de Sintra is noted for its enormous beauty, the guide also highlights its ecological significance within the natural park. The area’s environmental diversity is evident in the lush landscapes and protected areas, providing a peaceful contrast to the historic sites.

The Pena Palace and Castelo dos Mouros showcase Sintra’s architectural variety — from the colorful, romantic palace to the ancient fortress. The guide’s commentary enhances appreciation of these cultural landmarks, revealing their historical context and architectural details.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour operates with pickup and drop-off directly at your hotel in Lisbon, making logistical planning straightforward. The transport is by private vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride with free Wi-Fi and bottled water provided throughout the day. The group size is limited to your private party, allowing for a personalized experience.

The timing allows for a relaxed pace, with stops designed to maximize sightseeing without rushing. The lunch at Praia Das Macas is scheduled to give guests ample time to enjoy the seaside atmosphere, while the winery visit provides an immersive tasting experience.

Flexibility and Customization of the Itinerary

A notable feature of this tour is the ability to tailor and tweak the itinerary. Whether you want to spend more time at specific sights or focus on particular interests, the guide is open to adjustments. This personalized approach is a strong point, especially for travelers who prefer a less rigid schedule.

Since the tour is private, it offers greater flexibility compared to group excursions. This makes it ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking a bespoke experience that aligns with their interests and pace.

Value and Overall Experience

Priced at $209.53 per person, the tour provides excellent value considering the inclusion of wine tasting, private transport, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a seaside lunch. The high rating and positive feedback emphasize the quality of the guides, the wine selection, and the scenery.

The absence of lunch in the package may be a minor drawback, but the thoughtfully chosen seaside restaurant helps make this a memorable culinary experience. The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind for booking.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals most to wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those interested in Sintra’s castles and natural beauty. It suits travelers who want a personalized, stress-free day with flexible timing. The private nature and comprehensive itinerary make it a standout choice for anyone seeking an in-depth experience of Sintra’s heritage and flavors.

Final Thoughts on the Sintra Wine & Coastal Lunch Tour

The Wine Tour & Lunch By the Sea in Sintra offers a well-rounded exploration of the region, blending cultural landmarks, natural scenery, and local wine and cuisine. Its private format and customizable itinerary cater to those who prefer a more intimate and tailored experience.

While lunch is not included in the price, the restaurant recommendation at Praia Das Macas** elevates the meal into a scenic highlight of the day. The winery visit at Adega Regional de Colares receives praise for its authenticity and educational value. This tour is a solid choice for anyone wanting a relaxed yet engaging way to discover Sintra’s best-kept secrets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with transport by private vehicle ensuring comfort and convenience.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving plenty of time for sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing at the seaside.

What stops are included?
Stops include the Serra de Sintra, Pena Palace, Castelo dos Mouros, Praia Das Macas for lunch, and the Adega Regional de Colares winery.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to tailor and tweak the itinerary according to your interests.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price but is arranged at a seaside restaurant during the beach stop.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

What does the wine tasting include?
Guests sample local variants at Adega Regional de Colares, Portugal’s oldest cooperative, and learn about the winemaking process.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves some walking at the castles and natural sites but is generally accessible for most travelers.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Who is the provider?
The tour is operated by SWINGO by Avenidas, contactable at +351962969241 or [email protected].