Cascais is a pretty ancient fishing village just 15 miles from Lisbon on the Estoril coast of Portugal. Fishing boats still set sail from here, providing locally caught fish to the towns eating establishments. During the holiday season local people set up stalls along the roadside selling local handicrafts and unusual souvenirs.
Providing an excellent base for visiting the resorts along the Lisbon coast, Cascais is a lively resort with a relaxed atmosphere.
The quaint old town of Cascais has lots of cobbled streets, a 16th century fort, churches, museums, zoo, bullring, park and a marina to explore. There are plenty of opportunities for dining out in Cascais with a variety of restaurants, tradition tavernas and cafes. Evenings can be spent in the lively bars and clubs, by enjoying a relaxing meal at one of the top quality gourmet restaurants or by visiting the amazing casino at Estoril.
Walking is a popular pursuit here, especially along the coastal route from Cascais to the Boca do Inferno which is great fun during a storm or at high tide, but not for the faint hearted! There are lots of roadside cafes along the way, a great place to stop off for a drink is at the Esplanada Santa Marta which overlooks Santa Marta Beach and lighthouse.
With three beautiful beaches – Praia da Rainha, Praia da Ribeira and Praia da Conceicao – you will be spoilt for choice. The Praia da Ribeira is a working fishing harbour where you can watch the local boats leaving for their daily catch. There is also the large wild beach of Praia do Guincho which is just a short drive away from Cascais. Water sports including surfing, windsurfing, water skiing and sailing are on offer from the beaches here in Cascais.
Great days out from Cascais include taking a train ride to Lisbon, visiting the resorts of historic Estoril and Sintra, the Sintra-Cascais National Park and the 18th century Queluz Palace or taking a deep sea fishing trip.
Summer holidays spent in Portugal are ideal as you will always normally be guaranteed good weather.
If you are looking for last minute holidays, there are always great offers throughout the internet.