Michael Portillo’s brightly-hued wardrobe is heading to Portugal one last time. In this final episode of his Iberian rail journey, Portillo finds himself amidst the fairytale castles and lush gardens of Sintra, a town once favored by Portuguese royalty. This UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting three million visitors annually, offers a blend of history, nature, and, as Portillo will undoubtedly discover, some excellent pastries.
The episode focuses on Sintra’s romantic history, particularly the 19th-century Pena Palace, a colorful confection of architectural styles, blending medieval and Islamic influences. Portillo also visits the imposing Mafra Palace, built with the riches of colonial gold and minerals but curiously underused as a royal residence.
No Portillo trip is complete without culinary exploration, and in Sintra, he indulges in the local delicacies: Queijada cheesecake and Travesseiro almond-cream pastries, once favored by King Carlos I. He also explores Sintra’s more natural side, foraging for wild food along the Atlantic coast and enjoying a picnic near mainland Europe’s westernmost point.
Finally, he traces the escape route of King Manuel II to the surfing town of Ericeira following the Republican revolution of 1910. This episode offers a rich mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery. Catch “Portugal with Michael Portillo: Sintra” on 5, this Saturday, April 5th at 8:15 PM.
