City: Central Portugal
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What to do and see in Central Portugal, Portugal: The Best National Parks
1. Serra do Acor
2. Parque de Monserrate
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 754 reviews
Reviewed By LP528 - Manitoba, Canada
We were shocked by how beautiful the grounds were, even in January. They're beautifully maintained, and well worth an hour or two of wandering. The palace has been wonderfully restored; you have to see the 'before' pictures to fully appreciate the work that has been done. I wish we'd have been told to start on the top floor. This is where all of the information about the history of the palace is. There's a very interesting video to watch, as well. I highly suggest starting at the top and working your way down; it will all make much more sense that way. We stopped at the cafe, and it's a nice place for a drink and a snack (inside or out). The selection of food is likely much better during high season. Beware if you're driving to Monserrate - good old google maps sent us to the service entrance (a challenging drive to be avoided at all costs). This might be a disappointing place for anyone with mobility issues. Wear proper footwear as the paths can be steep and slippery in places. Would LOVE to see this place in summer (although, I fear the crowds would be annoying).
3. Parque Natural da Serra de Sao Mamede
4. Jardim do Cerco
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 99 reviews
It is the Baroque garden par excellence and a must stop for anyone visiting Mafra. Jardim do Cerco is an illuminated work, maintained in detail and detail for the population and visitors. Water mirrors, wide paths, leafy trees and a century-old daughter-in-law still in operation are some of the attractions of this garden inspired by Versailles. This place is the perfect transition between the walled vastness of Tapada Real and the monumentality of the National Palace of Mafra, which stands on one of its flanks. The forest and gardens extend over eight hectares, with offers of nooks, shadows, waterfalls or even a peculiar garden: Horta dos Frades, where the plants used in medicinal products (pharmacy) are in sight when they were built. , ordered by D. João V. In Jardim do Cerco there is a space called Horto das Aromáticas , which features around 39 species of plants used for medicinal and seasoning purposes. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2019
Reviewed By eddg2019
When you are done touring the vast National Palace of Mafra, this garden offers a lovely, quiet oasis in which to contemplate all that you have just seen. As you exit the palace, turn right and go around the side of the building where you will see the charming Jardim do Cerco (Garden of the Siege). It is a perfect place to spend some time in nature before going back to Lisbon. There is an aviary, containing a variety of birds, a fountain, an herb garden, and a children’s playground.
5. Jumping Jack Forest
We are a family farm dedicated to ecological models for our modern life. Our guests enjoy a small village forest by the mountain and a farm in the makings... Jumping Jack Offers Free Picnic Volunteer and stay the night Garden & Orchard Pickings - 4€ per Kg BBQ forest wood 4€ per bundle Home Grown Compost & Plants Weekend Family Garden work Guided Walks In Our Transforming Oka/Pine Forest
