Praia das Macas, a traditional sea-side resort close to Sintra.

Situated on the west coast of Portugal, just north of Lisbon, Praia das Maçãs (which means 'Apple Beach') is part of the national park and only 12km from the exquisitely beautiful world heritage site of Sintra which boasts amongst its major attractions the Moorish castle, fascinating labyrinth grottos in the gardens of Regaleira Palace and the fairy-tale like Pena Palace.

The sandy beach is ideal for families, with lifeguards throughout the summer, rock-pools and beach-side restaurants as well as a children's playground. There are many other beaches within easy reach - a short walk along the cliff path takes you past Neolithic ruins to Praia Grande beach which is very popular with surfers.

For those who don't want to venture into the waves, the beach-side Lido has an Olympic-sized swimming pool with a water slide and children's pool, and next to it are tennis courts and a 5-a-side pitch. There is also a surf school, and bike rental and horse-riding are available.

A 100 year-old tram line runs from the beach up to Sintra, passing through Colares where they make wine, stopping at the new Living Science Centre, (great hands-on fun for children) up to the Sintra Art Deco modern art museum. This is a great way to see the area!

The village is small but has all the necessary shops: butchers, chemist, patisserie and a small covered morning market selling everything from fresh fish, vegetables, freshly grilled chicken to beachwear and toys. There is a disco in the summer but night-life is very much focused on the fine restaurants.

All the restaurants in the village are good, many specialising in seafood dishes. You can enjoy everything from lobster to pizza within a few minutes walk. Most meals are served with appetisers - including breads and local cheeses (and even barnacles). For regional specialities, two local sweet pastries stand out; the Queijadinha is a small soft-cheese based tart and the Travesseiro a sweet fruit filled pillow eaten warm. Also be sure to try a Pão com Chouriço (fresh bread roll baked in a clay oven with chouriço inside) in a tiny shop by the post office.

The village became a destination for families from Lisbon at the turn of the last century and has holiday apartments and villas for rent and a camp site on the outskirts but no large developments or big hotels so it is still nice and small and retains a very traditional sea-side feel.

It is easy to get into Lisbon, with frequent trains from Sintra, and so many things to see and do in the area there is everything you need here to enjoy a perfect family holiday!

Written by Susan Pearson – Owner of Property 88135 in Praia das Macas, Portugal