After several days of exploring Lisbon’s historic streets and grand monuments, a day by the sea felt like the perfect change of pace. We drove to Cascais, a charming coastal town where colorful fishing boats, ocean views, and relaxed café culture abound. Our afternoon included a stop at the dramatic Boca do Inferno, a leisurely seafood lunch overlooking the water, and gelato enjoyed while strolling along Cascais’ waterfront boulevard. Simple pleasures, beautiful scenery, and the sound of waves gently washing over a white sand beach made this one of our favorite day trips from Lisbon.
Getting to Cascais
You can easily get from Lisbon to Cascais by train (they run every 30 minutes). But we took an Uber and here’s why. On a nice weather day, set your destination to Boca do Inferno and explore there first. You can spend some time checking out the dramatic landscape and then walk the 30 or so minutes into Cascais. You’ll be walking along the water with amazing views and it’s an easy flat path. Admire the luxury villas and resort hotels as you make your way into town.
A Quick About Cascais
Cascais has been referred to as the “Heart of the Portuguese Riviera” since the late 19th century when King Luis I of Portugal chose it as the royal summer retreat, quickly deeming it as a playground of the elite. The area has world-class golf courses, upscale boutiques, a modern marina and luxury hotels. Cascais is home to Casino Estoril, which inspired Ian Fleming’s first James Bond novel, Casino Royale.
Boca do Inferno
As the name implies, Boca do Inferno is one of the most dramatic (if not THE most dramatic) stops along the Cascais coastline. Translating to “Mouth of Hell,” this incredible sea cave and cliff formation was carved over thousands of years by the relentless power of the Atlantic Ocean. Waves crash into the rocky opening with stunning force, giving the site its dramatic name. Boca do Inferno is one of the most picturesque natural environments I’ve ever photographed. You can actually climb down the rocks for a view that is a bit more of a close-up, too. It is a must-see stop on any visit to Cascais. I recommend arriving in the morning to avoid a crowd.
Spending the day in Cascais
Rather than follow a strict itinerary, we spent our afternoon embracing the relaxed pace of coastal life. One of the best things to do in Cascais is simply slow down and wander. Cascais certainly invites you to take your time. There are plenty of benches perfectly positioned for admiring the sea, watching fishing boats bob in the harbor, and soaking up some sun. You can get pleasantly lost among the town’s cobblestone streets. Along the way, you’ll find charming cafes and sun-faded buildings adorned with traditional Portuguese tiles.
Eating in Cascais
If you’re looking for a quintessential “seafood on the water” lunch, I recommend Corleone in Villa Cascais. Make a reservation and dine on their chic terrace under colorful umbrellas with a view of the ocean. The octopus and selection of pastas are delicious, plus they have a great wine list of lovely Portuguese wines. A long lunch here will make it hard for you to return to reality.
After lunch, get gelato from Santini. You can’t miss the iconic red and white stripes of this Portuguese institution. Founded by Italian immigrant Attilio Santini in 1949, this beloved gelateria makes gelato and sorbets with fresh fruit and natural ingredients. The flavors are creative and intensely refreshing. The coconut gelato was divine!
Sometimes the most memorable travel moments aren’t found on a checklist. They’re found while sitting by the water, feeling the salt air on your skin, and allowing a destination to reveal itself slowly.
Have you been to Cascais?
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xo – Erin
Salt Air and Seaside Strolls: A Day Trip from Lisbon to Cascais appeared first on CathedralsandCafes.com. If you see this content published anywhere else, please email cathedralsandcafes@gmail.com.
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