A Magical First Supermoon Walk in Sintra
There are nights when the Moon seems intent on conquering the sky, and early October 2025 brings one such moment to Sintra. The first Supermoon of the year is set to unfold in the early hours ofTuesday, October 7, with the Moon appearing unusually large and bright. To make the experience even more special, a guided night walk through Sintra’s Serra offers a close encounter with this celestial spectacle, starting a few days before the peak so participants can soak in the near-supermoon glow as it rises over the forested hills.
Organized by Lynx Travel, a trusted name in adventure travel and cultural experiences, the event on Saturday, October 4, invites you to a memorable journey under the first Supermoon of 2025. The meeting point is at 18:30 near the Convento dos Capuchos, and the walk begins at 19:00. It’s a roughly five-kilometer circuit rated easy to moderate, lasting about three and a half hours. The Serra de Sintra becomes a stage where ancient stones meet lunar light, inviting stories, myths, and a touch of mystique as the Moon grows brighter in the sky.
The Night Route: Trails, Megaliths, and the Heart of Sintra
From the Capuchos area, the route winds upward toward one of Sintra’s notable megalithic monuments, perched at about 490 meters above sea level. On clear nights, the surrounding landscape seems to glow with an unreal clarity, and on the horizon you might glimpse as far as the Cabo Espichel when conditions permit. The journey continues toward the Bosque dos Druidas, a quiet, tucked-away grove that lends itself to a symbolic celebration in honor of the Moon. The evening blends history, nature, and local myth, giving participants a sense of entering a living legend rather than simply following a trail.
As part of the experience, the group will also have a chance to taste a beverage inspired by ancient Celtic traditions, reinforcing the link between landscape, legend, and lunar cycles.
Practical Details: How to Join, Pricing, and Safety
Registration costs 10 euros per adult and 5 euros for children aged six to twelve. Reservations close on October 3, and your place is confirmed only after you send proof of payment via bank transfer (NIB: 0033 0000 0010 7863 225 05) or MB Way (917 940 888) and email the required details to [email protected]. Only email registrations are valid, and cancellations do not qualify for refunds in case of no-show.
On the night, please arrive with comfortable footwear, appropriate clothing, a headlamp or flashlight, water, and a small snack. If you enjoy photography, a camera can capture the Serra de Sintra bathed in near-full-moon light, creating images of a landscape that looks almost dreamlike.
The Science Behind the Supermoon
The Supermoon occurs when a full Moon coincides with the Moon’s perigee, the closest point in its orbit to Earth. On October 7, the Moon is expected to be roughly 14% larger and up to 30% brighter than a typical full Moon. NASA notes that the perigee distance is around 363,300 kilometers, compared with roughly 405,500 kilometers at apogee. While “Supermoon” is a popular term rather than a formal astronomical label, it describes the striking visual impact when the Moon rises large and luminous, especially near the horizon where perspective can enhance its perceived size.
This year’s sequence includes two more lunar highlights: another event on November 5 (not visible from Portugal) and a final appearance on December 5, with a peak around 00:14. For Sintra, the October walk is a rare chance to experience lunar energy along with a landscape that has inspired poets and explorers for centuries.
Tips for a Memorable Photos and Experience
- Bring a camera with good low-light performance and a tripod if possible.
- Dress in layers; the Serra can feel cooler after sunset.
- Protect your eyes with a red-light option to preserve night vision.
- Use the Moon’s position to compose wide, dramatic horizon shots over Sintra’s trees and monuments.
Why Sintra at Night with the Moon Is Special
Sintra’s natural landscape—lush forests, ancient trails, and historic landmarks—takes on a new aura under a near-supermoon. The combination of lunar light, cool night air, and the sense of stepping back in time creates a distinctive atmosphere that resonates with locals and travelers alike. Whether you’re a stargazing enthusiast, a photographer, or simply seeking a magical escape, this guided walk offers a unique way to connect with Sintra’s soul and the Moon’s generous glow.
