Lisbon is not only Portugal’s largest city, but also a highly sought-after tourist destination, so it’s always buzzing with activity. However, for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, there are several options that allow you to enjoy moments of silence and relaxation without leaving the city and/or the region.
From gardens to viewpoints , not forgetting natural parks, this itinerary designed by the Regional Tourism Authority of the Lisbon Region (ERT-RL) presents places that are conducive to reconnecting with nature. So, if you want to escape stress, contemplate views, meditate and enjoy the tranquillity, then follow this step-by-step article.
Table Of Contents
Garden of the Chalet of the Countess of Edla
The beginning of this route in search of absolute silence (or almost) takes us to Sintra. Between palaces and a mountain range that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, there is one area that deserves to be highlighted: the Chalet Garden of the Countess of Edla.
Built between 1864 and 1869 by King Ferdinand and his second wife Elise Hensler, later the Countess of Edla, the green space and the chalet bear witness to a beautiful love story, which is reflected in every detail.
As you stroll through the Garden, be prepared to enjoy a variety of botanical species from around the world, lakes, benches and small viewpoints overlooking the National Palace of Pena.
Address: Estrada da Pena, Sintra
Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Garden
Back in Lisbon, the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Garden is a kind of urban refuge, perfect for reading a book and forgetting the typical hustle and bustle of the capital.
The green space that surrounds the Gulbenkian Modern Art Center has many nooks and crannies that invite you to meditate inwardly:
- The lake
- Small streams
- Diverse flora
- Trails
- And, of course, the open-air amphitheater.
Address: Avenida de Berna 45 A, Lisbon
Santo Estêvão viewpoint
Continuing in Lisbon, how about a visit to Alfama? Although at first glance it may seem an odd suggestion, the truth is that the next spot is (almost) a little secret of the city.
‘Hidden’ among alleys and staircases, the Miradouro de Santo Estêvão offers a peace that escapes other busier places, but the view is still just as breathtaking.
A few meters from the viewpoint, if you want to wander around Lisbon more, take the opportunity to visit the Fado Museum and/or enjoy the beauty of the surrounding sidewalks.
Address: Largo de Santo Estêvão
Peace Park
Heading towards the South Bank, it’s time to visit Almada‘s ‘green lung’, the Parque da Paz. As its name suggests, this green space invites you to long moments of serenity.
Inaugurated in 1995, Parque da Paz covers around 50 hectares and was designed by the famous landscape architect Sidónio Pardal, so there is no shortage of vast wooded areas and a lake, the epicenter of animal life.
There, you can go for a walk, a bike ride or simply spread out your towel in the sun and enjoy the simple art of doing nothing. Also worth mentioning is the Peace Monument, another landmark in the park.
Address: Avenida Arsenal do Alfeite, 10
Multisensory Energy Garden
In the Lisbon region, another place where you can forget your surroundings and feel the silence is the Multisensory Garden of Energies, in the municipality of Setúbal. Opened in 2018, it is an innovative and inclusive space.
The park was designed with a path that stimulates the senses and promotes well-being. It also offers rest areas and privileged views of the Sado.
Address: Avenida Belo Horizonte 78-80, Setúbal
Arrábida Natural Park
Last but not least, we end this itinerary dedicated to the delight of silence with the Arrábida Natural Park, a true paradise for nature lovers.
Created in the 1970s, this protected area covers around 17,000 hectares and spans the municipalities of Setúbal,Palmela and Sesimbra. Between the intense blue of the sea and the lush green of the forest, relaxation is a constant.
To make the most of the potential for relaxation, it’s best to avoid the hustle and bustle of the high season and the most popular beaches. But don’t worry, there’s no shortage of trails and hillsides to breathe in and out!
