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In the heart of Portugal's magical town of Sintra, where fairytale palaces and lush green landscapes abound, lies a hidden gem that beckons travelers to embark on a remarkable journey through time. The Historical Tram, a testament to the region's rich heritage, gracefully weaves its way from Sintra Village to the sun-kissed shores of Praia das Maçãs, offering passengers a unique blend of nostalgia, scenic beauty, and a profound connection to the past. Step aboard this time-traveling tram and let your senses be captivated by the enchanting tales it whispers as it traverses the picturesque landscapes of Sintra.
A Remarkable Tale of Persistence
The idea of connecting Sintra to Colares and subsequently extending the line to Praia das Maçãs emerged in 1886. Despite numerous setbacks, it wasn't until November 1898 that significant progress was made. The Sintra City Council granted Nunes de Carvalho and Emídio Pinheiro Borges a 99-year concession to construct and operate a steam railway between Sintra and Praia das Maçãs, later replaced by electric traction.
The Birth of the Tram
In July 1900, the Cintra to Praia das Maçãs Railway Company was established, later renamed the Cintra ao Oceano Company in 1904. Construction of the tram line commenced in August 1902 in the Estefânia area, and in March 1903, the J. G. Brill Company in America was commissioned to manufacture 13 electric trams, consisting of seven motor cars and six trailers.
A Journey Through Time
On March 31, 1904, the first section of the tram line, spanning 8.9 kilometers, opened between Sintra (Vila Velha) and São Sebastião de Colares. The following year, on July 10, the line extended to Praia das Maçãs, covering a distance of 3.785 kilometers. The tram journey became an integral part of the region's heritage, offering locals and tourists a unique mode of transportation and an authentic experience of the past.
Challenges and Revival
The tram's journey was not without challenges. In 1914, the Sintra-Atlântico Company replaced the previous bankrupted entity. By January 31, 1930, the tram line reached the picturesque village of Azenhas do Mar, achieving its maximum length of 14.6 kilometers. Led by the dynamic administrator Camilo Farinhas, Sintra-Atlântico witnessed the tram's heyday until his passing in 1946.
The Decline and Resurgence
The decline of the tram began in the late 1940s with the rise of motorized transport. By 1953, the trams operated exclusively during the summer months, and in 1955, the section between Praia das Maçãs and Azenhas do Mar was closed. In 1958, the track between Vila Velha and Sintra Station met a similar fate due to the widening of Volta do Duche and increased automobile traffic in the area.
Despite these challenges, the trams continued to operate solely during the summer season, between Sintra (Estação) and Praia das Maçãs, garnering a special status as a beloved symbol of Sintra. Sundays and holidays witnessed a surge of people, with eager passengers scrambling to secure a seat on the trams.
Azenhas do Mar called "the Santorini"of Portugal is a wonderful beach, close to Praia das Maçãs (the Apples Beach)
Construction Suspension and Future Resumption
In March 2023, the tram service was temporarily suspended due to ongoing construction work on the Colares tram line. As of now, the tram is not operational, but once the line reopens, it will be a delightful experience to embark on this historical journey once again. We will keep our readers informed about the resumption of service.
Plan Your Historic Tram Journey
When the Historical Tram is operational, visitors can enjoy a memorable ride through Sintra's captivating landscape. The fare is €3 for adults, €2 for seniors and young people, while children can ride free of charge. To stay updated on the tram's schedule and timetable, please visit the Municipal Site of Sintra: https://cm-sintra.pt/atualidade/turismo/aviso-electrico-de-sintra-com-circulacao-suspensa-2
The Historical Tram of Sintra, which connects the village with the beautiful Praia das Maçãs, is not just a means of transportation but a living piece of history. With its rich heritage, picturesque scenery, and the promise of a nostalgic journey, the tram serves as a charming reminder of a bygone era. Once the construction work is complete, locals and tourists alike will eagerly await the reopening of the tram line to once again savour the experience of stepping back in time on this iconic journey.
There are other options, if you want to visit Praia das Maçãs or the other beaches that are part of Sintra's Natural wonders. Check our Video about how to go to the Beaches from Sintra by Public Transport - See here
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