
Fortunately, Lisbon is surrounded by wonders. On one side we have the sea, on the other we have the countryside and the mountains. Today we’re going to show you the smallest and most “secret” villages to visit and fall in love with.
You’ll love a trip to any of these five villages just a few kilometers from the capital, the perfect places to make new memories with family, friends or your partner.
Table Of Contents
Penedo, in Sintra
Penedo is located just over 50 minutes from Lisbon, in the Serra de Sintra , in the middle of a natural park, but little is known about the origins of this village.
Some accounts, from 1527, speak of references to this place in the 13th century, which also makes Penedo one of the oldest villages in the country. We recommend a visit to the fountain in the center of the village.
Village of Mata Pequena, in Mafra
Our first suggestion is a typical village in the Saloia region (that’s how they say it). Aldeia da Mata Pequena is one of the few villages that has been completely preserved and restored in such a way as to maintain the appearance and traditions of yesteryear.
For those who want total relaxation, less than half an hour from the city, this is the ideal place . You can find out more about this spectacular village in this exclusive Lisboa Secreta article.
Azenhas do Mar, in Sintra
When you arrive in Azenhas do Mar, you get the feeling that you’re in a place that doesn’t exist. Close to Sintra, the small village is perched on a cliff by the sea.
It’s the perfect place to spend the weekend eating seafood and soaking up the sea air. Find out more about this small seaside village.
Pia do Urso, in Batalha
As well as a peaceful village, Pia do Urso is home to the Pia do Urso Sensory Eco-Park. And what is a natural and sensory park? It’s a park adapted for blind people, with a walking route through the middle of nature where we find some stops where we can interact with what is presented to us, using touch and smell.
A long time ago there were bears in these parts, nowadays not anymore, but we can still find the “pias” – mini lakes – where they drank water, and which gave the place its name.
Typical José Franco village in Mafra
At first glance, this village looks like any other. It has a castle, white houses with blue stripes, a mill and workshops. But in fact, this village is a recreation of a typical Portuguese village and was built by José Franco in the 60s.
As a tribute to his land and his memories, the potter José Franco rebuilt everything that characterizes a village, but in a smaller scale.
It’s undoubtedly special and different from the others, and an excellent place to take the children to play and learn. And don’t forget, there’s bread with chorizo! Find out more here!
Map with the smallest villages near Lisbon, and a list for your cell phone!
12 Aldeias Históricas de Portugal que é obrigatório conhecer