As a regular visitor to Portugal, my family, including our faithful dog, Miss Molly resides on the sunny Algarve in the fishing village of Carvoeiro. I fly in and out of Faro on a regular basis juggling my European day with the current Brexit restrictions! During these visits, we do make a conscious effort to visit other regions of Portugal as there is a lot to see and explore beyond the sandy coves of the Algarve.
This year between Christmas and New Year we headed north to Cascais, located on the western coast approximately fifteen miles outside the capital city of Lisbon. Cascais is located on the sheltered bay at the mouth of the River Tagus and is a glamorous resort which despite its’ ‘chic’ status still has the feeling of a Portuguese fishing village.
Travelling by road from the Algarve we took the fast, modern motorways north towards Lisbon. The majority of the journey took less than three hours but we came to a grinding halt when with hit the outskirts Lisbon city. I can only describe it like being on the Formula 1 circuit track! Cars continually cutting in, crossing lanes but once we had crossed over the bridge it all began to calm down as we approached the outskirts of Cascais.
Cascais Beach
My first impression was it’s likeness to the French Riviera which I had visited earlier this year, the coastal road lined with beautiful, elegant 19th century villas and residences giving it the title of the Portuguese Riviera. Historically, Cascais was the summer retreat of the Portuguese nobility, escaping the city but today the town displays an elegant fusion between it’s regal and fishing heritage.
Cascais
At the heart of Cascias is the pretty historic centre, with its traditional Portuguese character, and cobbled streets boasting numerous restaurants and shops. Along the waterfront is the fishing harbour, an exclusive marina complex and the Cidadela de Cascais, an imposing restored building that today contains an upmarket artisan hub.
There is a wide range of cultural sights and activities to do while in Cascais, here are just a few:
• Visiting the colourful Palacio da Pena in Sintra
• Day trip to Lisbon, Sintra, and Estoril – all easily accessible by public transport
• Surfing at Praia do Guincho beach
• Relaxing on Praia de Carcavelos beach
• Watching the sunset at Cabo da Roca
• Hiking or cycling through the dramatic Scenery of the Parque Natural de Sintra
• The Mercado Da Vila market
• The Casa Das Historias Paula Rego art gallery
• The Castro Guimaraes Museum
Where to stay in Cascais? There is a wide variety of hotels and guest houses from simple 2 star properties, tucked away behind the main promenade, to luxury boutique hotels. Most of the luxury properties were originally historical palaces or former residential villas. We chose Albatroz Hotel, mainly because it was ‘dog friendly’ (although I would say ‘dog tolerant!) located on the headland between the town’s two beaches, built in 1873 as a Duke’s Palace but still has the charm, style and atmosphere of a luxurious private home. All the rooms have been individually decorated with fine Portuguese furnishings and artwork, many of which have wonderful sea views.
Hotel Albatroz, Cascais
Cascais is a perfect destination for a short break, I would suggest a 3 or 4-night duration, but it can also be combined with a Lisbon city break and make a two-centre option. For more information just give me a call.
