Sintra: Castle of the Moors

After Pena Palace we then visited the Castle of the Moors. This was included in our ticket with the palace and the two were a short walk from each other. It was a beautiful sunny day in Sintra making for some beautiful views from the castle.

The castle itself was very grand and steeped in history. There were loads of high turrets and steep steps, the walk around it was a really good workout. 

Sintra: Pena Palace

While in Lisbon we took a quick trip over to Sintra for the day. The train is quick, cheap and easy to figure out and there are many wonderful sights to see.

One of the places we visited on the day was Pena Palace. We chose to walk to the palace not quite realising how much of a hike it was, while it was beautiful scenery it sure was hard work! Make sure to get a bus or taxi up- unless you're a fan of a good hike.

Lisbon: Belem: Jeronimos Monastery

Next up on the Lisbon tour we had a trip to Belem to visit Jeronimos Monastery. Construction of the building began in 1501 and was completed 100 years later, it is the former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome. The monastery is a beautiful example of late Gothic architecture and the building has since been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Biddulph Grange Gardens

I have recently invested in a National Trust Card, if you are under 25 the price for the year is a bargain! It's half the price of the adult membership and you get free access to hundreds of magical places! The first place that I visited using my membership was Biddulph Grange Gardens located in Stoke.

The picture of this place in the booklet instantly caught my attention showing a Chinese inspired temple. The site is a Victorian garden with plants from all around the world, a visit takes you on a journey from Italy to Egypt to the Himalayas and finally to China.

Restaurant Review: Tattu Manchester

The Restaurant

The restaurant itself has fantastic decor with a flower wall in the downstairs eating area and of course the infamous cherry blossom tree upstairs. As well as this there are many tattoo themed designs dotted around. The lighting was dim giving a relaxed feel and giving the cherry blossom tree a more central and prominent feel.

The staff were all very helpful and service was very quick. Booking in advance was important as the restaurant books up fast and we just about got a spot on a Saturday night in the early afternoon.

Lisbon: Santa Justa Lift

 Next stop on the Lisbon tour was the Santa Justa Lift located in the centre of Lisbon. It is a vertical structure consisting of a metal tower an observation platform and a walkway across to the shopping complex and the church ruins.