Tholos do Monge - graffiti on the side of a blue wall that says h bones tons
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Tholos do Monge

4.4
·7 reviews·Colares, Portugal

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather for hiking

CrowdLow
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Tholos do Monge - graffiti on the side of a blue wall that says h bones tons

Tholos do Monge

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather for hiking

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.4
(7 reviews)

"A hidden historical gem with breathtaking views, perfect for an adventurous hike."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tholos do Monge Megalithic Tomb

Tholos do Monge Megalithic Tomb

Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

Discover a 2300-year-old megalithic tomb, a hidden gem amidst Sintra's highest points.

Instagram
Panoramic Views from the Summit

Panoramic Views from the Summit

Near Tholos do Monge

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Sintra hills from this elevated vantage point.

Reddit
Hiking Trails in Sintra-Cascais Park

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

Tholos do Monge is a historical megalithic tomb nestled in Sintra's hills. While it's a fascinating historical site, it's often overlooked. Plan your visit to coincide with good weather for the best hiking experience in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Instagram

Navigating Sintra's Natural Park

The Tholos do Monge is located within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, a vast area with numerous trails. Consider wearing comfortable hiking shoes and bringing water, especially if you plan to explore beyond the immediate monument. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for hiking
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer visitors on trails
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Thuê đồ đã bao gồm tất cả phụ kiện đi kèm như tóc giả, giày, nón rồi nha mụi người. #thuedodalat #mongco #dantoc #reviewdalat #mongoland
@thuedocotrangmongoland
6.1K likes • 495.3K views

Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes

Trails can be uneven; good footwear is essential for exploring the park. :athletic_shoe: Instagram

Bring Water and Snacks

Stay hydrated and energized on your hike through the Sintra hills. :water_wave: Reddit

Hiking today around Peninha; checking out the Tholos do Monge, a tomb/gravesite over 2300 years old 😳 #sintra #sintracascaisnaturalpark #portugaltravel #travellover #ndfarmkid
nd_farmkid
8 likes • 91 views
reddit.com

Exploring Sintra without a tour guide?

Look for Informative Signs

Informative plaques are available on-site to learn about the monument. :memo: Reddit

Explore Beyond the Main Sites

Don't miss the hidden historical sites and stunning natural beauty of the park. :hiking_boot: Instagram

reddit.com

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: Instagram

Bring Water and Snacks

Stay hydrated and energized on your hike through the Sintra hills. :water_wave: Reddit

Look for Informative Signs

Informative plaques are available on-site to learn about the monument. :memo: Reddit

Explore Beyond the Main Sites

Don't miss the hidden historical sites and stunning natural beauty of the park. :hiking_boot: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(7 reviews)

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. InstagramReddit

"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

Historical significance
Scenic hiking trails
Panoramic views

What People Dislike

Can be challenging hike
Limited facilities

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the ancient megalithic structure against the backdrop of the Sintra hills. The panoramic views from the summit also offer excellent photographic potential. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and a softer glow, ideal for photographing the monument and the landscape. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

The summit area around Tholos do Monge offers several viewpoints overlooking the surrounding hills and valleys. Explore the immediate vicinity for the best angles. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Tholos do Monge with children can be an adventurous experience. The hike itself can be a fun challenge, but ensure your children are comfortable with longer walks and uneven terrain. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider shorter, more manageable trail sections if your kids are younger. Instagram

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. Instagram

🚶 Solo Travelers & Hikers

For solo travelers and hikers, Tholos do Monge offers a rewarding off-the-beaten-path experience within the stunning Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. The trails provide a great opportunity for personal reflection and enjoying nature at your own pace. Instagram

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. Reddit

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse flora and fauna within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, and photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the dramatic landscapes and the ancient Tholos do Monge. Instagram

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Tholos do Monge

The Tholos do Monge is a significant megalithic tomb dating back over 2300 years, making it a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric settlements in the region. Its name, 'Tholos,' refers to the beehive-shaped structure characteristic of such tombs. Located at one of the highest points in the Serra de Sintra, it was once a prominent landmark, though it has been largely overlooked for decades, often overshadowed by the nearby Geodetic Marker. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Hiking and Exploring the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, lush forests, and historical monuments. Hiking is one of the best ways to experience the park's beauty, with a network of trails catering to various fitness levels. The terrain can be challenging, featuring steep ascents and descents, so wearing appropriate footwear is crucial. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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