A Coastal Escape: Discovering the Beauty of Cascais

Nestled along the rugged Atlantic coastline, Cascais is a town where time seems to slow, inviting visitors to savor its maritime charm, historic landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. During my stay, I immersed myself in its elegant streets, explored nearby Sintra’s fairytale-like palaces, and indulged in exquisite cuisine—each experience adding a new layer to this captivating destination.

A Grand Arrival and A Taste of Cascais

My journey began upon arrival in Lisbon, where I picked up my rental car and set off for Cascais, a short yet scenic drive from the capital. As I checked into Hotel Vila Galé Cascais, I was instantly taken by its coastal elegance and the serene views stretching out over the Atlantic.

The afternoon was dedicated to Cascais’ cultural quarter, starting with a visit to Casa de Santa Maria, an architectural gem blending Moorish influences with 19th-century grandeur. Just a short stroll away, the Farol de Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum offered a glimpse into the town’s maritime past, standing proudly against the deep blue ocean.

A stop at the legendary Santini Ice Cream was a delightful interlude—its rich, velvety flavors making it clear why this local favorite has endured for decades. The day concluded with a mesmerizing visit to Boca do Inferno, a dramatic rock formation where waves crash into the cliffs with a hypnotic force. As the sun dipped below the horizon, I walked the promenade from Estoril to Cascais, retracing the steps of exiled royals and wartime diplomats who once sought refuge along these golden shores.

Dinner at Cantina Clandestina in the heart of Cascais was a perfect finale—a lively atmosphere, bold flavors, and a true taste of Portuguese culinary artistry.

Hiking the Untamed Beauty of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

The following morning, I set out on a three-hour hike through the untamed beauty of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, guided by Francisco Mendonça of Portugal Walk Hike. The journey began at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, where rugged cliffs met the endless Atlantic. The path led to the secluded Ursa Beach, a hidden treasure named one of the world’s most beautiful by the Michelin Guide.

The trek continued along dramatic coastal cliffs to Fojo, a natural well plunging 90 meters into the sea. Local legends tell of a Triton playing his conch deep within its depths, adding an air of mystique to the already awe-inspiring scene.

After a morning of exploration, lunch at Furnas do Guincho was a well-earned indulgence—fresh seafood paired with stunning ocean views along the scenic coastal road.

As night fell, I dined at Senhor Manuel, a cozy restaurant tucked away in Cascais’ Yellow Street, where the seafood was as fresh as the Atlantic breeze that lingered in the air.

A Day in Sintra: Palaces, History, and Romance

No visit to Cascais is complete without a journey into Sintra, a town where fairytales seem to come to life. The day began with a visit to the Cascais traditional market, where the scents of fresh pastries, vibrant produce, and locally caught fish filled the air.

In Sintra, I wandered through the Palace of Monserrate, a hidden gem with its lush gardens and exotic architectural influences. A walk through Sintra’s historic center was like stepping back in time, the cobbled streets winding past pastel-colored villas and charming cafés. Lunch at Café Paris, in the heart of town, was a refined pause before exploring the National Palace of Sintra, with its iconic twin chimneys and richly adorned rooms that whispered stories of centuries past.

The day ended with a return to Cascais, where dinner at Mana provided one last chance to revel in the town’s culinary brilliance.

A Fond Farewell

As my final morning in Cascais arrived, I embraced the slower pace of the town one last time. A leisurely breakfast, a stroll through its elegant streets, and a deep breath of the salty Atlantic air before making my way back to Lisbon Airport.

Cascais is more than just a coastal retreat—it’s a place of history, elegance, and natural beauty that lingers long after you leave. From windswept cliffs to grand palaces, intimate seafood dinners to sunlit promenades, this Portuguese gem is a destination that invites you to return, time and time again.