The Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais
The nature reserve
The Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of the European mainland. Here, the cliffs rise up to 100 meters out of the sea and reveal an incomparable view of the sea and the nature of the region.
The petrified dunes of Magoito and Oitavos, prominent rock formations in the region, and karst fields near Cabo Raso, Cascais, are also spectacular sights and worth a trip. On the steep coast of Azenhas do Mar you can visit a picturesque village and immerse yourself in the Portuguese way of life.
North of the mountains is the rural region with many small villages with the wine production of Colares. (Picture: Húsönd / Wikipedia)
Beaches in the area
Praia da Adraga
Praia da Adraga is located near Almoçageme, Sintra. The beach has disabled access, an excellent restaurant and a very good emergency service system.
The beach is only one kilometre from the house and can be reached by car or on foot in 20 minutes.
Praia Grande, Sintra
The Praia Grande (large beach) is a long, extensive sandy beach that is regularly used as a competition site for surfers and bodyboarders.
At the very north of the Praia Grande is, with a length of about 100 m, one of the biggest seawater swimming pools in Europe.
On the southern part of the beach there are traces of dinosaurs on the steep coast – a sight worth a short walk!
Praia Grande do Guincho
As part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Praia Grande do Guincho is nestled in breathtaking scenery, where the white sand dunes contrast with the hills of the Serra de Sintra.
Wind and waves attract bodyboarders and surfers, and in the summer months a north wind provides good conditions for windsurfing.
There are also good restaurants nearby, serving mainly fish and shellfish.
Praia das Maçãs
Praia das Maçãs (Apple Beach) is one of the most popular beaches within throwing distance to Lisbon. During the summer months a tram line runs between Sintra and Praia das Maçãs.
As everywhere else on the Atlantic Ocean, the swell can be quite powerful, but there is also a large pool with slides, diving boards and a children’s pool right on the beach.