Outpost

Whitewashed Luxury on a Cliff in Colares

Colares, on the Atlantic coast of Portugal, is known for its ramisco and malvasia grapes rooted deep in the sandy soil, protected from the salty winds. Just outside the whitewashed village of Azenhas do Mar, you'll find Outpost perched on the cliffs, overlooking the craggy coast from Cabo de Roca to Ericeira.

This family estate was built in the 1940s by renowned architect Raul Lino, who designed many historical buildings throughout the country, from the Moorish-style Casa de Santa Maria in Cascais to the neoclassical Tivoli Theatre in Lisbon. Today, it has been converted into a collection of seven apartments, available for rent together or separately. See individual units for details.

The outdoor gym has high bars and a squad rack. Available equipment includes longbars with weights, barbells, tractor tires, kettlebells, TRX suspension straps,yoga mats, skateboards, or balancing boards.

Artisan personal care products are provided, based on various cold-pressed nut oils and produced by local cosmetics artisans of Oliofora. The property also has an “Honesty-style” on-site self-checkout store, with a selection of local goods, and a vegetable garden that grows courgette, tomatoes, herbs, lettuce, and green beans cabbage and paprika (depending on the season). Pick-up is available. Free high-speed WiFi, and parking. Shared washer and dryer on property.

AROUND

Outpost is located just outside the iconic village of Azenhas do Mar, at the foot of the Sintra Mountains. Several beaches are within reach, including the little-known “home beach,” a five-minute walk from the west gate of the property. 

One of the unique benefits property is its proximity to Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais, Ericeria; all between 20 and 45 minutes by car. This gives you a chance to explore the jewels of each, while returning each day to privacy, space and nature. 

Rustic and straightforward local cuisine includes traditional Portuguese tascas and seafood restaurants, or you can go more haute with the Michelin-starred destination restaurants in Sintra, Cascais and Lisbon. “Our all-time favorite for the fresh fish is right on the water’s edge by the natural pool in the bay of Azenhas do Mar,” say the owners.

Surfing and water sports are available within a 45-minute radius, with the closest surfable beach just down the road. Hikers can also enjoy a footpath along the cliffs, just beyond the west gate of the Casa. 

LOCATION

Colares, Portugal. Nearest airport: Lisbon International (39km away)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: June through October for the best weather and least rainfall