This is a charming and compact accommodation within close proximity to the beautiful, rugged coast. Free parking near to the barn is available on the local streets (albeit they are very tight, twisty and narrow) The stone barn is tucked away with the small village of Almocageme - a 45min drive from Lisbon airport.
For us the main purpose of our trip was proximity to the coast. We very much enjoyed exploring the local landscape and the bracing walks along the cliff ridges. Adraga beach, and its sea food restaurant, is just 15mins walk down the road from the barn.
Ana & Guilherme made us most welcome with logs for the stove and additional heaters for the spring chill. The sensitive conversion of the barn is a lovely balance between traditional and contemporary styling. The upper loft style sleep deck provides for 3 persons and is an open acoustic space.
From Almocageme, most places of interest were only 15 to 25mins away by car. We recommend that you set out early for any trips to the principle tourist hotspots... you need to be on point by 9:15am to avoid the coaches and the general heave of fellow travellers. Central Sintra is beautiful but disappointingly choked to extinction by commercial tourism pressure - Palace of Monserrate is stunning. Cascais feels more genuine and better managed as a place to visit. We very much enjoyed driving up to Ericeria, further up the coast, for the sea food restaurants and the general charm of town. Also give the inland and landscape parts around Mafra a visit.
One final mention for the local Ramisco (red) grape. Gnarly, low, ancient, phylloxera free vines which can be seen on the sandy soils of the dunes and terraces nearby. This is a delicious wine. Vintage 2007 - 2009, most westerly European DOC, available in 500ml bottles (about 15Euro). Do ensure you decant the wine to let is open up and breath for at least 30 to 45mins. In the lull between beach and palaces plan a quick visit the wine makers cellars in Colares.
Overall, this is a good spot. Thanks to Ana & Guilherme for hosting us.
Melinda & Peter