Cascais
TIME : 2016/2/22 13:49:34
Cascais
Located west of Lisbon on the Estoril coast, the once-sleepy fishing village of Cascais has become the summer playground of city dwellers, adored for its glorious string of sandy bays and the spanking new marina.
Although the beaches pose the main attraction in Cascais, it’s worth popping in to the 17th-century St Sebastian Chapel to admire the vast collection of sculpture, Oriental china, decorative arts and the stunning traditional tiles that encrust the walls of this eclectic little museum. The contemporary design of the Casa das Histórias (Museum of Stories) also rewards a visit; designed by architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, this sleek gallery displays works by famous Portuguese artist Paula Rego.
Back from the beach the pedestrianized thoroughfare of Rua Frederico Arouca sees most of the action at night; it’s lined with upmarket boutiques and open-air fish restaurants as well as jumping late-night bars and clubs.
Cape Roca makes the perfect side trip from Cascais; escape into nature and stand at the westernmost point of continental Europe while gazing in awe from the bluff cliffs across the restless ocean. Close by is the Boca do Inferno (Hells’ Mouth), a naturally formed grotto worn down by the interminable crashing of Atlantic waves against the cliffs. Practical Info
Cascais is 30 minutes west of Lisbon and is best reached by train from Cais do Sodré station along the scenic coastal route.
