Azenhas do Mar is one of Portugal's postcard villages
Azenhas do Mar means “Watermills of the Sea,” and the name derives from a once-powerful stream that moved the watermills as it made its way to the sea. The Mediterranean-looking village is a literal cliffhanger, with white houses tumbling down to the Atlantic, creating a picturesque scenery that inspired painters and graced postcards in the mid-20th century. At that time, wealthy families from Lisbon and Sintra also decided that the stunning location was perfect for their summer homes, which you’ll see outside the main cluster of houses. Some of them were even designed by Portugal’s leading architects, who attempted to create an authentic “Portuguese Style,” which included the traditional blue-and-white tile panels on the façades.
The small beach of Azenhas do Mar
Most of the houses, however, were originally the homes of a fishing community, built close together at the top of the cliff, creating a maze of streets and patios overlooking the coast.
A "Portuguese Style" house in Azenhas do Mar
Steps at the bottom of the cliff lead down to a small (30m/100ft-wide) beach, faced by a popular restaurant specializing in fish. How much space you have to spread your towel depends on the tides (at high tide the beach often disappears), and there’s also a platform meant to trap the sea water and create a pool.
The seawater pool of Azenhas do Mar
How to Get to Azenhas do Mar
Bus 440, of the Scotturb company, departs from the Portela de Sintra terminal and has Azenhas do Mar as its final destination. It reaches it in about 25 minutes, but it’s a rather infrequent service. Bus 441, whose destination is the village of Terrugem, has more frequent departures, and stops in Azenhas do Mar in about 20 minutes.
Attractions Nearby
There's a number of attractions within walking distance of Azenhas do Mar
Walking up the coastal road from Azenhas do Mar, you’ll see a sign pointing to Praia da Aguda. That’s a wild beach about 15 minutes away, reached via a staircase. From there it’s another 15 minutes over rocks and tidal pools to Praia do Magoito, a beach mostly frequented by locals and surfers.
To the south of Azenhas do Mar is Sintra’s most popular beach, Praia das Maçãs. It can be reached by walking down Avenida Luís Augusto Colares and Avenida Eugene Levy, for about 20 minutes, or by taking bus 441 (a 3-minute journey).
Where to Stay in Azenhas do Mar
Azenhas do Mar West Coast Design and Surf Villas
One of the traditional white houses of the village was given a contemporary interior and is open to guests wishing to wake up with sea views, from inside and from the patio.
Chalet O Amorzinho Sintra Praia
Located on the road between the village of Azenhas do Mar and the beach of Praia das Maçãs, this property dates from 1910 and preserves the original architecture. The décor is inspired by the sea and there are Atlantic views from just about anywhere, including the double rooms, suites and apartments, and the small, seasonal heated pool.
Um Lugar ao Sol Beach House
This is another of the white houses of the village perched above the ocean. It has two bedrooms and two bathrooms, so it’s a good option for families, but it’s best for couples looking to relax on a romantic getaway. Guests may prepare meals in the kitchen and enjoy them outside on the patio, with a wonderful view.