A romantic escape - in Portugal

Bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, Cascais in Portugal offers the best of everything: beaches, attracting lovers of vitamin D and surfers alike; the enchanting streets of the historic centre; delicious restaurants and golf courses for athletes and amateurs; this diverse town would make an unforgettable honeymoon destination.

The mild climate and breathtaking views of Portugal continue to attract people from all over the world, all year round. Just over 30 minutes by train from Libson, Cascais is close enough to feel like you're getting away from the hustle and bustle, but not so far that you feel removed from a European capital. Besides its coastal beauty, the imposing presence of the Sintra Mountains, which rise as one of the green and natural highlights of the town, is a picturesque setting that couples will spend hours admiring.

A RICH HISTORY
Cascais has a history of ancient fishermen who inhabited the town when it served as a port for Lisbon. It was later transformed into a refuge for European exiles during the Second World War. Today, it retains its historical heritage, which is obvious when strolling through the streets, where the past, present, and future harmoniously coexist. Each street, park, museum, and even some hotels tell the fascinating story of this seaside town. Wandering through the nooks and crannies in the region feels as though you're living in times gone by. Places like Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or Estoril still exude the magic of a time that was able to reconcile modern and sophisticated with historical and traditional.

REST AND RELAXATION
The beaches of Cascais, kissed by the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic, form a charming natural spectacle. With 17 beaches along its 30 km coastline, the hardest part of your trip will be choosing between the impressive scenery that's on offer. One of the most famous and renowned beaches worldwide is Praia do Guincho, known for its vast sandy shores and waters; it was even the backdrop for James Bond in On Her Majesty's Secret Service. Nowadays, with a large influx of surfers, it boasts a magnificent horizon amidst the dunes and a volcanic chimney.

LET'S GET PHYSICAL
Sports in Cascais are a crucial part of local life, offering a variety of activities that captivate visitors and explore both the sea and land, highlighting the region's natural beauty. Surfing has been gaining increasing popularity at the local beaches. The Cascais Sea is the ideal stage for the practice of water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, surfing and kitesurfing, with various schools along the coast to teach all those who wish to learn. Looking for something on land? Cascais is home to some of Portugal's finest golf courses. All well-maintained, with stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean, making playing this sport a special experience. You can hire bicycles and exercise with a sea view on the bike path along the coast, but if you prefer cardio in the midst of nature, there are plenty of options, such as natural trails like Peninha for hiking with an incredible view from the highest point of the Natural Park.

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD
The gastronomy of Cascais is a true feast for the senses, reflecting the richness of Portuguese flavours and the fusion of international tastes it encounters and absorbs. Fish and seafood lead the way, along with some signature cuisine, global dishes and the celebration of the art of petiscos. Make sure you visit Bairro Amarelo, a series of streets in the historic centre of the town that host various restaurants specialising in various different cuisines. Hotels also hide treasures in Cascais' gastronomic experience, many of them with award-winning restaurants, offering guests and passersby a culinary journey through local and international flavours. The traditional cakes made in convents are part of the menu of most patisseries and restaurants in the region meaning each meal, or a simple coffee, becomes a memorable experience.

CHARMING CULTURE
The creation of the Museum Quarter elevated the town's culture to a new level, offering a diverse range of offerings to those with a taste for art. There are galleries scattered throughout the town showcasing works by local and international artists. Frequent cultural events, such as outdoor music and theatre festivals, contribute to Cascais' cultural vitality. For younger couples, there is no shortage of activities either, with culture being shared through theatres, workshops and craft sessions. There are always programs and plans to fill the town's cultural agenda. Estoril Classics is a traditional weekend full of excitement and competitions – perfect for couples who are adrenaline junkies. The real attraction is off the track, where you can spend hours viewing classic cars on display, mechanics working on vehicles, and feeling like you're part of the experience. When all the speed works up an appetite, Chefs On Fire is the ideal destination. It's a gastronomic festival that brings together the best chefs, both national and international, cooking over fire, smoke and wood. The dishes are prepared outdoors and around a bonfire, with background music, and served at communal tables for groups of friends and families.

A PLACE TO REST YOUR HEAD 
The hotels in Cascais have always been known for their excellence in hotel services, and in recent years, the range of options has diversified to appeal to all ages. With a selection ranging from charming guesthouses to sophisticated seaside resorts, there is a wide variety to choose from. Luxury establishments provide not only refined accommodations but also an exclusive atmosphere where comfort meets contemporary aesthetics. Others combine classic architecture with modern facilities, offering an experience that harmonises the past and present.

BOOK IT
To find out more about Cascais, visit www.visitcascais.com/en