Finding suitable accomodation for a group of 15 (four families, with kids ranging in age from 3 to 16) is not an easy task, so we were really happy to find Casal Santa Maria. From all accounts, it looked like a great property, but I was still a little nervous whether it would meet everyone's needs and expectations. I needn't have worried, though -- as soon as we arrived, it was clear that we had made the right decision! The villa is even nicer than it looks in the photos, and spotlessly clean to boot. As keen self-caterers, we were very happy with the well-equipped kitchen (two dishwashers, two fridges and a professional quality oven!); the charcoal grill outside also got lots of use.

Another great feature is the excellent use of space, both indoors and out; we never felt cramped, and everyone was able to retreat from the group if desired. In addition to the lounge, there is also a comfy sitting area in the foyer, and on the upstairs landing. Outdoors, there's also lots of choice of where to spend your time, be it the pool terrace, or the front garden. The kids enjoyed playing badminton and table tennis, and of course, swimming! Really, you don't even have to leave the house to have an excellent holiday!!

We did venture into Sintra on the tram (highly recommended!), and spent several afternoons at the beach. Praia das Macas is the closest, though we preferred Praia Pequena (about a 20 minute walk south of the villa). Praia Grande is another 5 minutes along from there, and a bit more lively, with lots cafes and bars, as well as an amazing 100 meter salt water pool. The area is also great for walking -- ask Ralph for directions to Cabo da Roca; it's not to be missed! Or if you'd prefer a pleasant stroll, the pretty village of Azenhas do Mar is an easy 2 km walk north of the villa. The more intrepid of our group enjoyed some great bike trips with Ralph -- thanks again!! Bike rental was a breeze with Cycling Rentals of Sintra -- they even deliver the bikes to the villa! All in all, we had a fantastic time -- if I could, I'd give Casal Santa Maria 6 stars instead of 5!!

Our group of 12 friends (mostly couples) stayed in this villa in september as some sort of late holiday. The weather was fantastic, 25-35 degrees was waaay better than 10-18 degrees we had in Finland.

The location of the villa was nearly perfect - ocean view and short walk to multiple nice restaurants and couple of beaches. There was no need to rent a car or other transfer methods - Sintra and Lisbon were easily accessible using public transports for exploring the country. Local shops and butcher provided us with food for the whole week. There was not much tourists around at a time, which can be considered as a great advantage.

The villa was in perfect condition, having good kitchen and outside barbecue for making food - not necessary to eat in restaurants all the time. The pool was our favourite, being big enough for us to spend a lot of time in it - no way we ever rent a villa without the pool any more! Games like badminton and table tennis were also in heavy use.

And of course Ralph! He was very friendly (and entertaining ;)) person who was very easy to talk to. He gave us good introduction to the local area, and was always ready to answer our questions. It was also fantastic that he was willing to take us on the bike ride around villages, showing some amazing views around.

In overall this trip was amazing, and we would take it any time again. Thanks to Ralph for great assistance and villa!