Azenhas do Mar Beach

Category: Nature > Beach

District: Lisboa > Sintra > Azenhas do Mar > Colares

Location

Azenhas do Mar Beach is located in the coastal village of Azenhas do Mar, part of the civil parish of Colares, within the municipality of Sintra. Its position is unique, with the village extending down the cliff to the sea, where white houses seem to cascade, embracing the rocky landscape. This arrangement creates a distinctive setting, characteristic of a seaside place nestled between the ocean's power and imposing cliffs.

A Picturesque Setting

This place is widely recognized for its unique aesthetic, where traditional architecture merges with the natural beauty of the coast. The dwellings, many with white facades and some adorned with tiles, are embedded in the hillside, adapting to the cliff's slope. The image of Azenhas do Mar, with its houses contrasting with the blue of the Atlantic, is a scenic element that attracts with its harmony and uniqueness.

The Beach and the Ocean Pool

The sandy area of Azenhas do Mar Beach varies in size, potentially becoming quite small depending on the tides and sea conditions throughout the year. However, the main attraction for those seeking a swim is its natural ocean pool, which is filled by the sea water itself. This pool offers a unique swimming experience, especially inviting on calmer sea days, within a striking scenic setting.

Traces of History and Inspiration

Originally a fishing village, Azenhas do Mar has transformed, in recent decades, into a peaceful summer resort. Its atmosphere and beauty have captivated various artists over time, serving as inspiration for painters like Júlio Pomar, Emílio da Paula Campos, and Milly Possoz, who found a refuge for their creativity here. The name of the locality, Azenhas do Mar, reflects its history, referring to the existence of old watermills powered by the force of the tides, a testament to the region's productive and ingenious past.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt