Tapada Nacional de Mafra

A Royal Hunting Reserve With 1,187 Hectares and No Pretence

Tapada Nacional de Mafra is not a city park. It is a former royal hunting reserve established by King João V in the 18th century, enclosed by a 21-kilometre stone wall that still stands. Inside that perimeter, 1,187 hectares of oak, cork and pine forest shelter deer, wild boar and birds of prey. It is less than an hour from Lisbon, and it feels like a different country.

What you actually do here

Walking is the most direct way in. There are marked trails at various difficulty levels, and if you arrive early enough you will likely see red deer grazing in the clearings. Mountain biking is another solid option: the terrain is uneven, with proper climbs and descents that demand decent fitness and a bike with gears. Archery is available too, and works well for families with kids old enough to handle a bow.

On weekends, a small tourist train runs through the reserve. It is the best choice for anyone with limited mobility or small children. It covers a good amount of ground without requiring you to break a sweat, and the guides provide commentary on the wildlife and the history of the estate. For a deeper dive into the walking routes, including the wolf and deer observation areas, check out our guide to the Tapada on foot.

My advice: go early, skip midday

If you want to see animals, get there at opening time. Deer are most active at dawn and dusk. By noon in summer, they retreat to shade and the trails get hot and exposed. In autumn, during the rutting season, male deer call out across the forest with a deep, guttural bellow that carries for hundreds of metres. The Tapada organises special activities around this period, and it is worth planning a visit specifically for it.

Entry is affordable (€ category), which makes this one of the best value outdoor experiences near Lisbon. For exact prices and opening times, call +351 261 814 240 or check tapadademafra.pt directly, as schedules change by season.

Getting there and practical details

The main entrance is at Portão do Codeçal, Sobral da Abelheira (2640-602 Mafra). From Lisbon by car, take the A8 motorway. Count on 40 to 50 minutes depending on traffic. Parking at the entrance is free. Public transport exists to the Mafra area, but the final stretch to the Portão do Codeçal will require a taxi or a long walk, so driving is strongly recommended.

Bring water, sunscreen and proper walking shoes. The trails are uneven with rocks, roots and, after rain, serious mud. There is no restaurant inside the reserve, so pack a lunch or plan to eat afterwards. Prédio Ericeira is a reliable option for a meal in the area after your visit.

Tapada in the broader Mafra picture

Mafra deserves more than a quick stop at the Palace. The Tapada is part of a constellation of things to do that can easily fill a full day or weekend. Pair it with a visit to Jardim do Cerco, the historic garden adjacent to the Palace, and take time to wander the town itself. If you are visiting in spring, our guide to Mafra in March covers what to expect from the weather and what is happening locally.

Tapada Nacional de Mafra does not need superlatives. It is a proper forest, with proper wildlife, less than an hour from one of Europe's most visited capitals. Lace up your boots and go.