Tholos do Monge
Discover Tholos do Monge, a 2300-year-old megalithic tomb in Sintra's hills, offering historical intrigue and stunning park views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Pleasant weather for hiking
Tholos do Monge
Best Time
Pleasant weather for hiking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Tholos do Monge, a 2300-year-old megalithic tomb in Sintra's hills, offering historical intrigue and stunning park views.
"A hidden historical gem with breathtaking views, perfect for an adventurous hike."
Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Trails can be uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring the park. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized on your hike through the Sintra hills. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tholos do Monge Megalithic Tomb
Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
Discover a 2300-year-old megalithic tomb, a hidden gem amidst Sintra's highest points.

Panoramic Views from the Summit
Near Tholos do Monge
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Sintra hills from this elevated vantage point.

Hiking Trails in Sintra-Cascais Park
Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
Explore scenic trails winding through the mysterious and beautiful Sintra landscape.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Tholos do Monge
Navigating Sintra's Natural Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Trails can be uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring the park. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized on your hike through the Sintra hills. :water_wave:
Exploring Sintra without a tour guide?
Look for Informative Signs
Informative plaques are available on-site to learn about the monument. :memo:
Explore Beyond the Main Sites
Don't miss the hidden historical sites and stunning natural beauty of the park. :hiking_boot:
Planning a trip to Sintra? I’m a local guide, ask me anything.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Trails can be uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring the park. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized on your hike through the Sintra hills. :water_wave:
Look for Informative Signs
Informative plaques are available on-site to learn about the monument. :memo:
Explore Beyond the Main Sites
Don't miss the hidden historical sites and stunning natural beauty of the park. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Tholos do Monge to be a fascinating historical site and a rewarding destination within the beautiful Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. The hike offers stunning views, though some note it can be challenging. It's appreciated for its historical significance and the sense of discovery it provides, often being a quieter alternative to more popular Sintra attractions.
"Trilho circular com elevação de cerca de 490m de altitude. Monumento histórico na serra de Sintra e um dos três pontos mais altos da Serra."
Beatrix Reche
"Túmulo megalítico localizado no terceiro ponto mais alto da Serra de Sintra, passa na maior parte das vezes despercebido por quem ali circula a pé, de bicicleta ou a cavalo.
Escondido pela presença imponente do Marco Geodésico, esteve durante décadas votado ao abandono.
Aparentemente, está a ser alvo de obras de requalificação e limpeza do entulho florestal acumulado.
Existem placas informativas no local."
Luís Paiva
"Toda a serra tem aquele ar misterioso é lindo"
Filipe Plácido
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Tholos do Monge, you'll typically travel to Sintra first. From Lisbon, take a train from Rossio Station to Sintra (approx. 40 minutes). Once in Sintra, you can hike or take a bus towards the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Many visitors explore the park on foot, so comfortable shoes are a must.
While there are roads within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, parking directly at Tholos do Monge might be limited. It's often recommended to park in Sintra town and explore the park via hiking trails or local transport.
There isn't one single designated route, as it's part of a larger network of trails in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Many visitors discover it while hiking other popular routes. Check local trail maps or apps for routes that pass through the higher elevations of the park.
Yes, Tholos do Monge can be part of a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon. Combine it with visits to other Sintra attractions like Pena Palace or Quinta da Regaleira, but be mindful of travel times within the park.
While specific tours focusing solely on Tholos do Monge are rare, many general Sintra tours or hiking excursions in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park may pass by or include it as a point of interest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tholos do Monge is located within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, which is largely open access. You do not need a ticket to visit the monument itself, though access to other attractions within the park may require admission fees.
As an ancient monument within a natural park, Tholos do Monge does not have set opening or closing hours. It is accessible during daylight hours when you can safely navigate the trails.
The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, specific palaces, castles, and attractions within the park, such as Pena Palace or Quinta da Regaleira, have their own admission fees.
For popular Sintra attractions like Pena Palace or Quinta da Regaleira, booking tickets in advance online is highly recommended to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
There are no specific restrictions for visiting Tholos do Monge, but it's important to respect the historical site and the natural environment. Stick to marked trails and do not disturb the monument.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best way to experience Tholos do Monge is by hiking to it and taking time to appreciate its historical significance and the surrounding natural beauty. Informative plaques provide context about the monument.
Allow at least 1-2 hours for the hike to and from Tholos do Monge, plus time to explore the monument and enjoy the views. This can be extended if you plan to hike further in the park.
Facilities are scarce directly at Tholos do Monge. It's advisable to use restrooms and purchase any food or drinks in Sintra town before heading into the park.
The terrain can be varied, with some trails being well-maintained and others more rugged. Expect inclines and uneven surfaces as you ascend into the hills of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
Children can visit Tholos do Monge, but the hike might be challenging for very young children. Ensure they are supervised and have appropriate footwear and hydration.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the ancient megalithic structure against the backdrop of the Sintra hills. The panoramic views from the summit also offer excellent photographic potential.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and a softer glow, ideal for photographing the monument and the landscape.
Drone usage is often restricted in natural parks and historical sites to protect wildlife and preserve the atmosphere. Check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the monument and the expansive views. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing panoramic shots.
The summit area around Tholos do Monge offers several viewpoints overlooking the surrounding hills and valleys. Explore the immediate vicinity for the best angles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical aspect of the tomb might be less engaging for very young children, the natural beauty of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and the sense of exploration can be captivating. Look for trails that offer interesting flora and fauna, and make the hike a treasure hunt for natural wonders.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Hikers
It's advisable to inform someone of your hiking plans, carry a fully charged phone, and be aware of your surroundings. The park is generally safe, but sticking to marked paths and being prepared for varying weather conditions is key. The historical intrigue of the tomb adds an extra layer of discovery to your solo adventure.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Aim for the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. The misty mornings can also create a mystical atmosphere. Remember to pack appropriate gear, including a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a sturdy tripod if you plan on capturing long exposures or low-light shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Tholos do Monge
Historically, this site was a burial ground, reflecting the ancient funerary practices of the people who inhabited this area. The monument's presence at such an elevated location suggests strategic or ritualistic importance. Recent efforts have focused on its requalification and cleaning, aiming to preserve this piece of history for future generations. Informative plaques have been installed to educate visitors about its past.
Exploring Tholos do Monge offers a unique connection to Portugal's ancient past, away from the more crowded tourist attractions. It's a place that evokes a sense of mystery and discovery, allowing visitors to ponder the lives of those who built and used this tomb millennia ago. The surrounding Sintra-Cascais Natural Park adds to the allure with its lush landscapes and historical ambiance.
Hiking and Exploring the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
When planning your hike to Tholos do Monge, consider routes that traverse the higher elevations of the Serra de Sintra. While specific trail names might vary, look for paths that lead towards the park's highest points. Many visitors combine this visit with other popular Sintra attractions, but it's wise to allocate ample time for the hike itself, especially if you're not accustomed to such terrain. Bringing sufficient water and snacks is highly recommended, as amenities within the park are scarce.
The park's atmosphere is often described as mysterious and enchanting, with mist frequently rolling in, adding to its allure. Beyond Tholos do Monge, the park is home to numerous other points of interest, including palaces, castles, and stunning coastal viewpoints. Respecting the natural environment and staying on marked trails are essential for preserving this beautiful area.
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