Casa Sarracena, Azoia
Review Submitted: October 17, 2008
Date of Stay: April 2008
We very much enjoyed staying in a typical Portuguese village. The house was certainly not lacking in character but perhaps needs just a little more loving care (and more modern electrics!). The owner is an artist living locally; his house and studio are in a lovely spot in the village, with a fantastic view. We liked the fact that the local old wash-house is a focal point of the village, with different traders each day.
In Almocageme we discovered the "chicken-lady", who sells cooked chicken for lunch, with crisps on the side - maybe not the healthiest of meals, but good and tasty. Nearby Plaia da Agraga reminded me of some of the better Cornish beaches, though the currents can make swimming dangerous.
Visiting Cabo da Roca is a must, however tourist-ridden it is! On the way is a track marked "Ursa", something that we didn't spot until the last (wet) day. We think that this is a track to the local beach, which we previously had failed to find!
Off the main road near to Azoia, following the sign to Penhinas, we drove then walked through the forest, which in places is scattered with enormous boulders, and the view from the top is spectacular.
We also especially enjoyed a visit to Palacio da Pena, described in the Rough Guide as a "compelling riot of kitsch", and indeed great fun.
Despite the heavy rain at the end of the week, which seeped into the house, it was a good holiday, and we felt that we'd seen a corner of the real Portugal.
Recommended for:
Sightseeing,
Romantic Getaway
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Helpful votes: 5/9
