AZENHAS DO MAR | Imagine a village built into a cliff. Now imagine a group of houses arranged in a cascade on a rock by the sea. Now add a greenish sea and an infinitely clear white light. If your mind was able to visualize a place of beauty worthy of a travel postcard, then you probably glimpsed Azenhas do Mar, a MAGICAL place!
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AZENHAS DO MAR
In the past it was a fishing village. Today it is a place sought after by poets, artists, and all those who like inspiring places of endless beauty. There are approximately eight hundred people living there. Despite being a very small place, there are many attractions in Azenhas do Mar. Besides the beauty of the village houses, its natural swimming pool and 30-meter sandy beach are a must-see. But there are more equally interesting things to do there. We’ll tell you all about it, stay with us!
WHERE IS AZENHAS DO MAR?
It is a village belonging to the municipality of Sintra (parish of Colares). If you are leaving from Lisbon, you can count on a 38 km trip. This distance can be covered in approximately 45 minutes.
CURIOSITIES ABOUT AZENHAS DO MAR
WHERE DOES THE NAME COME FROM?
The village owes its name to the old water mills (called Azenhas) that existed there in great number. If you visit Azenhas do Mar, don’t forget to see the water mill that is still there today.
Right next to the watermill you will find a stone bench with a curious inscription. It should be added that this type of inscription with popular sayings can be found all over the village. Walk slowly and aimlessly. You will find them easily.
THE HISTORY
It is a very old settlement. But it is difficult to precise in time the appearance of the first population cluster in this place. The famous water mills date from the Arab occupation period (VII-XV century). For many centuries, its main economic activities were milling, agriculture (especially wine) and fishing. It was from 1930 that Azenhas do Mar emerged as a seaside resort. A change that was due to the passage of the streetcar in this area (Banzão line).
WHAT TO DO AND VISIT IN AZENHAS DO MAR?
Although it is a fairly small village, we can spend a full and very pleasant day. Here are our suggestions.
WALKING IN THE STREETS OF AZENHAS DO MAR
To feel the “soul” and the “atmosphere” of the village, walk leisurely through its narrow streets and alleys. It is a small place and can be visited in just 30 minutes.
Be prepared for the climbs and descents! They can be challenging for the less physically prepared.
OCEANIC POOL
This is surely one of the most beautiful ocean pools in our country! It is located between the cliff and the beach. It is large and perfect for a dip under the force of the ocean (which is sometimes rough).
GO TO THE BEACH
The beach is beautiful, but the sand is quite small (30 meters) and at high tide it often disappears. In summer, it is hard to find space there to spread your towel and spend a quiet beach day. I love visiting these places, but preferably outside the high season…. I confess I have little patience for crowds. If you are like me, try this beach out of high season.
WHERE AND WHAT TO EAT?
The restaurant (marisqueira) is overlooking the beach. It is an excellent option for seafood lovers and beautiful places.
It provides a magnificent view to those who visit. It is rated 4.5 stars on google (out of 5). It has over 2900 reviews! It’s not cheap. But if your wallet allows it… go!
Before entering, enjoy a small pond that is located at the entrance. It is relaxing!
WATCH THE SUNSET AT AZENHAS DO MAR
It’s the cherry on top of the cake! With the natural photogenic village, the sunset on a clear day elevates the beauty of this place to a divine dimension! The orange tones of the sun blend heavenly with the white of the village and the green of the sea. The result? A travel postcard!
TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS at VIEWPOINTS
Do you like to take beautiful pictures? This is one of the most photogenic villages in Portugal! The houses cascading along the cliff, the streets and alleys of the village, the ocean pool, the colors of the ocean, the small sandy beach, the whole, the details!
If you walk around the small village, you will easily find some viewpoints from which you can admire phenomenal views. A few meters from the ocean pool, there is a stone ramp that will take you to a high place. At the top you will find many magnificent viewpoints. A dream location for photography lovers!
FISHING IN AZENHAS DO MAR
If you like to bathe your worm, you will enjoy doing it here. There are many perfect fishing spots and many people who seek out this village to spend a nice afternoon fishing.
CHILL OUT IN THE GARDEN
Before you reach the beach (and the ocean pool), you will find a small garden with some benches. A good “spot” to sit and rest a bit from the walk.
It is a nice, pleasant place, and perfect for contemplation.
SUGGESTION FOR A TOUR
LISBON: 1-DAY TOUR TO SINTRA, AZENHAS DO MAR AND CASCAIS
An 8-hour tour departing from Lisbon. Passing by Sintra, Cascais, Azenhas do Mar, Cabo da Roca, Guincho beach and much more. Click on the image to get all the details and book this experience through our website!
VIRTUAL TOUR TO AZENHAS DO MAR
NEAR AZENHAS DO MAR
12.6 kilometers separate Azenhas do Mar from Cabo da Roca. A distance that can easily be covered in approximately 20 minutes. Cabo da Roca is the place “where the land ends and the sea begins”! A gigantic 140 meter high rock wall that stretches imposing into the sea. An unmissable place with breathtaking views!
Only 10.6 kilometers separate Azenhas do Mar from the town of Sintra. MAGIC, is the adjective that best defines Sintra. A special place, with palaces, castles, convents, lakes. A town with history and also with enchanting stories! If you still don’t know (well) the enchanted village, it is time to open your calendar and start planning this trip. A must-see!
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR TRIP
PRACTICAL TIPS to organize your trip to AZENHAS DO MAR (or other destination)
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