Cascais and Estoril have become one of Portugal’s most cosmopolitan coastal resorts since the late 19th century when King Luis chose it for his summer residence. The region is now home to many grand villas and mansions as well as stunning beaches.
The area also offers challenging hiking trails and dramatic natural landscapes. But there are plenty of things to do in Monte Estoril that don’t involve gambling.
Casino
Stylish and sophisticated, Monte Estoril is a holiday destination that strikes the perfect balance between Portuguese charm and outstanding tourist facilities. The town centres on the sheltered Praia das Moitas beach and its seafront promenade, lined with al fresco bars and fine-dining restaurants. Upscale hotels and clubs line the hilly streets.
One of the most famous spots in Europe to gamble, the eponymous casino was once the backdrop for secret negotiations and spying during WWII. These intrigues inspired Ian Fleming to write his first James Bond book, Casino Royal.
The sprawling complex is now one of Europe’s largest casinos, with over 1,000 slots and table games. There’s also an upscale restaurant, nightclub and nightly floor show. Music fans can catch a local band called FLOW or head to the club Jezebel for a night of dancing and live music.
Beaches
Estoril’s beaches have been a draw since King Luis I chose the area for his summer palace in the 19th century. The beaches are sheltered and offer a promenade backed by al fresco bars and restaurants. The headland of Cabo da Roca offers a dramatic coastal hiking trail.
Beach lovers can enjoy the pristine sands of Praia do Tamariz, backed by resorts and restaurants. The beach is also within walking distance of a castle that was once the home of the royal family. The nearby Praia do Conceicao and Duquesa are larger and more lively. Younger visitors and skateboarders can enjoy the Cascais Skatepark.
Nearby Sintra has palaces, a Moorish castle, and a panoply of cafes, bars, and restaurants. The hilltop enclave of Monte Estoril is a favorite spot for Lisbon residents looking for the perfect escape. The town has a scenic promenade and hilltop gardens with intricate blue azulejo tilework. It is also the location of the Verdades Faria Museum.
Cabo da Roca
Located within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Cabo da Roca is one of Portugal’s best sea views and sightseeing spots. The cape emerges from the Atlantic Ocean at a height of 140 meters and boasts a lighthouse, monument, and scenic overlook. The site is famous for its sunsets and the fact that it marks the westernmost point of continental Europe. It is also a prime spot for hiking and observing the Atlantic’s mighty waves. The cliffs also feature the remains of a 16th-century fortress. The lighthouse here, completed in 1772, is a small structure and has a stone monument with an engraved verse by Luis de Camoes that says, “Here, where land ends and sea begins.”
Visitors can follow several walking itineraries along the clifftop and visit a number of beaches. Ursa Beach, Lourical Beach, and Guincho Beach are popular options for those looking to swim in the waters or surf the big waves. However, be sure to take precautions if you are afraid of heights.
Praia do Guincho
The Praia do Guincho is a popular Atlantic beach known for its windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to its proximity to Cabo da Roca (Europe’s most western point). But when the wind calms down this stunning beach becomes one of the region’s best surf spots.
The sheltered beachfront promenade is lined with al fresco bars, high-end restaurants and upscale hotels. The Moorish-style Casa Monsalvat hosts the Museum of Portuguese Music, while hilly streets are home to design stores and indie boutiques. Blue azulejo tiles decorate the Santo António do Estoril church.
The National Tile Museum is a less-famous but worthwhile attraction that’s filled with intricate tilework depicting old Bible stories and opulent golden adornments. To get here, follow the Ciclovia do Guincho cycle path that runs along the coastline. It’s a 9km (5.5-mile) route that can be biked all the way to Cascais. If you don’t have a bike, rent one from Bica Bike in the Cascais train station.
