Category: Nature > Park
District: Lisboa > Cascais > São João do Estoril > Monte Leite
Situated in the residential area of Monte Leite, in São João do Estoril, Pinhal de Santa Maria is located in a quiet urban context, with houses and schools in the vicinity. Its position between tree-lined streets offers a serene environment, ideal for moments of rest or leisure. It is in the municipality of Cascais, a short distance from the coast and well integrated into the local urban fabric.
Despite being in a residential area, the pine forest maintains a well-preserved natural environment. The dense tree canopies provide abundant shade and create a cool atmosphere even on the hottest days, serving as a natural refuge within the urban space.
The space is dominated by tall and leafy trees, with a focus on pine trees and other Mediterranean species. The ground, covered by grass and packed earth, is dotted with well-maintained garden areas and flowering shrubs. Dirt paths cross the park, allowing for walks under the continuous shade of the trees.
The vegetation is varied and forms a relaxing backdrop, creating ideal conditions for informal breaks, outdoor reading, or simply a quiet walk. Some wildflowers appear along the park's borders, adding small touches of color to the landscape.
Pinhal de Santa Maria has picnic tables and benches distributed throughout the grounds, taking advantage of naturally shaded areas. The presence of trash cans at various points contributes to maintaining the cleanliness and good conservation of the space.
It is a popular spot for families, residents, and visitors who wish to spend time outdoors, whether for play, relaxation, or socializing. The simplicity of the facilities reinforces the informal character of the park, which presents itself as a functional and aesthetic complement to the surrounding urban fabric.
In the vicinity of the pine forest is the Creche O Pinhal (The Pine Forest Nursery), established with the involvement of the local community in the early 1980s. This educational facility, although separate from the green space, shares the name and a symbolic relationship with the park, reflecting the integration between the natural environment and pedagogical functions in the area.
The connection between the nursery and the park highlights the role of Pinhal de Santa Maria not only as a leisure space but also as a point of support for child development and community life in the neighborhood.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.704674382353,-9.3877628647059
Coordinates DMS: 38°42'16.8"N 09°23'15.9"W