Cascais Presentation

It has probably happened to you: seeing an incredible landscape, taking a photo and realising that the grandiosity of the scenery was impossible to capture.

It’s like trying to describe a strong emotion, but not finding the right words. There is a reason for this: some things are really meant to be experienced. Cascais is one of them.

The Sea

At the extreme point of continental Europe, and with a coastline of 18 miles, Cascais is a bathing area by excellence.

There are several beaches to choose from, some with wilder traits and surrounded by a beautiful setting of dunes and mountains such as Cresmina beach.

Others are closer to the town centre and accessible by foot, such as the famous Conceição beach.

There is also a wide range of activities to do in the water, such as surfing, kitesurfing or a relaxing boat trip.

Nature

Do you want to breathe fresh air? You’re in the right place. Despite its urban development, Cascais is still in touch with nature. This can be seen not only in its city gardens, such as the Marechal Carmona Park, as in the magnificent Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, which you can explore by foot, bicycle, jeep or even buggy.

Here you will also have the opportunity to visit the beautiful Cresmina Dune Interpretation Centre: known for its diversity of fauna and flora, and fitted with a footbridge route, it is part of the Guincho-Oitavos dune system. All of this, of course, without forgetting the diversity of beaches.

Climate

Sun, sun and even more sun. The weather in Cascais is made of autumns that seem like springs, winters that seem like autumns, springs that feel like summers and, of course, summers that really are summers.

It is, therefore, the ideal destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities in the midst of nature: from dolphin watching, to a relaxing walk with a wine experience, an afternoon of golf at a prestigious course or a day climbing the rocks of Cascais.

Other Points of Interest arround Cascais

Trio Real

This is the name of the geographical link between Cascais, Lisbon and Sintra, all three at a 20-minute drive from each other. Keeping your base in Cascais, and after exploring all the spots and enjoying the good vibes of the town, you can get in the car and discover the mystical aura of a town full of romanticism called Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To ensure that nothing is missed, try one of the trails, through which you will have the opportunity to get to know the most emblematic points of the town and mountains, such as the Pena Palace or the Monserrate Palace. At the end, treat yourself with the delicious travesseiros from Piriquita pastry shop.

Gastronomy

The legend has it that the Portuguese are always at the table. It is not by chance: the gastronomic culture is very rich and varied. In Cascais you have the opportunity to taste the best the country has to offer. To enjoy fresh fish, you must visit one of the restaurants on Guincho Road. If you’re looking for a more glamorous experience, try one of the Michelin-starred restaurants. If you’re seeking a more international and equally delicious meal, there are plenty of options.

Historic Centre

There you can find the restaurants, bars, shops and traditional shops. There are the roots of a land that was also a fishing village. Then, there are the streets and alleyways of the centre, the fortress, the museums, the gardens, the theatres and the churches. Altogether, there is a rich and lively historic centre. Start with a beautiful stroll to be amazed by all the town’ details, but then narrow down the experience. Stop by the Mercado da Vila and indulge in the scent of fruit and vegetables. Lay out a towel on the grass of Marechal Carmona Park and feel the good energies. From clothes to decoration, do you want to discover the coolest shops? You’re at the right place: take a stroll through the centre and take a look at the Cascais Marina.

Museum Quarter

Complemented by two urban parks, the core created by Cascais Municipal Council and the D. Luís Foundation includes old family houses transformed into museums, palaces that once belonged to royalty, buildings designed by Pritzker Prize winners and a cultural centre with ever-changing exhibitions. It will be difficult to choose where to start. Be sure to visit Casa das Histórias Paula Rego, which includes a total of 620 works by the acclaimed Portuguese painter; the beautiful Santa Maria House, built in the early 20th century by Jorge O’Neill; or the Citadel Art District at Pestana Cidadela Cascais, an hotel where you can observe the contemporary art of the artists who exhibit and work there.