PORTUGAL’S BEST KEPT SECRET
Having fallen in love with Portugal on previous visits, first exploring the dramatic cliffs of Madeira and then soaking up the sun along the Algarve’s golden beaches, we knew we had to return. But this time, it wasn’t just for us. We wanted our daughter to experience the magic of Portugal first-hand. That’s what led us to Cascais, a hidden gem that effortlessly blends history, coastal charm, and modern sophistication. Far from the crowds, this vibrant seaside town is a treasure trove of rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, pristine beaches, and chic accommodations. It was the perfect setting for a family adventure we’d never forget.
Our adventure began in style, thanks to Visit Cascais, who graciously invited us to discover the very best of this captivating coastal town, and so much more. With TAP Air Portugal flying us smoothly from Gatwick to Lisbon, the journey kicked off effortlessly. The spacious legroom made for a surprisingly comfortable flight (plenty of room to stretch—not just a leg, but both!). Upon arrival, we were greeted by our private driver, the ever-charming and knowledgeable António, who whisked us away in a sleek Mercedes. Moments later, we arrived at our hotel, settled in with ease, and just like that… the real adventure began.
Accommodation
EVOLUTION Cascais-Estoril
Perched above the stunning Portuguese Riviera, EVOLUTION Cascais-Estoril is a 4-star hotel that delivers a 5-star experience. Blending cutting-edge digital tech with sleek, modern design, this dynamic hotel is tailor-made for the curious, the stylish, and the high-spirited, whether you’re a traveller, a visitor, or part of the local community. With state-of-the-art facilities and a welcoming vibe, it’s as family-friendly as it is forward-thinking. Best of all, its unbeatable central location makes it the perfect home base, just steps from top attractions, buzzing restaurants, and vibrant bars.
Checking in was a breeze, thanks to EVOLUTION’s sleek self-service kiosks that made the process quick and effortless. We stayed in the Family Room, a bright and inviting space thoughtfully designed with natural light and warm pine-toned furnishings that created an instantly relaxing atmosphere. Perfect for families, the room featured a cozy seating and workspace, a SMART TV with screen sharing, free high-speed Wi-Fi, a mini-fridge, and a coffee and tea station, plus thoughtful extras like plush bathrobes and slippers. A private balcony offered stunning views of the coastline, and the hotel had us covered with a baby cot already in place. Everything we needed was right at our fingertips, making it feel like a true home away from home.
EVOLUTION Cascais-Estoril is packed with exceptional amenities designed to elevate every moment of your stay. Start by unwinding at the rooftop panoramic pool, where you can sip a refreshing drink as you take in sweeping views of Cascais, pure bliss as the world drifts by below. For a culinary journey, head to the Upper Deck, where innovative gastronomy meets laid-back elegance.
In need of some pampering? The SAYANNA Wellness & Spa offers a sanctuary of relaxation, blending modern techniques with traditional therapies in a unique East-meets-West concept that soothes body and soul. Dive into the indoor vitality pool, complete with hydromassage chairs and beds, volcano massage jets, and let stress melt away in the infinity ocean-view sauna, steam room, or ice fountain. For the full sensory experience, don’t miss the multi-sensory showers. Whether you’re here to relax, indulge, or recharge, every corner of this hotel is designed to impress.
Food & Drink
Cantinho do Avillez
For our first evening in Cascais, we chose to dine at Cantinho do Avillez, a culinary gem that beautifully reimagines traditional Portuguese cuisine with global flair. Created by renowned Michelin Star chef José Avillez, the menu reflects both his international inspirations and nostalgic memories of growing up in Cascais, each dish a delicious tribute to home and adventure.
The ambiance was just as memorable. Bathed in natural light and accented in calming shades of ocean blue, the interior captures the spirit of Cascais and its coastal charm. It’s effortlessly elegant yet welcoming, setting the perfect tone for a relaxed yet refined dining experience.
We were instantly swept up in the warmth of the space and the attentive hospitality, especially toward our daughter, who was treated like a VIP. The food was nothing short of incredible, with the Tuna Tartare stealing the spotlight. From the flavours to the friendly service, our evening at Cantinho do Avillez set a perfect tone for the days ahead.
Capricciosa
Craving authentic Italian pizza with a side of stunning ocean views? Capricciosa is the place to be. Perched above the beach with a sweeping view of the Atlantic, this vibrant eatery brings a true taste of Italy to the Portuguese coast. Their secret? Fresh, high-quality ingredients flown in straight from Italy, time-honoured recipes perfected by skilled pizzaiolos, and a passion for innovation that elevates every bite.
Each artisan pizza is handcrafted with care, from the dough to the toppings, delivering bold, unforgettable flavours. Our daughter happily devoured her mini kids’ pizza while we savored our own, all while gazing out at the sunlit waves from the balcony. It was more than a meal… it was a delicious moment, perfectly seasoned with sea breeze and seaside charm.
O Pescador
Tucked between the sea and the land lies a former fishermen’s tavern that has become one of Cascais’ most treasured culinary landmarks. What began as a humble spot for hearty, ocean-fresh meals is now a celebrated restaurant known for its bold flavours, creative flair, and unmistakable authenticity.
At the heart of the menu are steaks of just-caught fish, live seafood, and a signature liquorice liqueur that has become a local legend. While the cuisine is rooted in maritime tradition, it’s the unexpected flavour combinations, crafted with care by Chef Raúl that set this place apart. Each dish is a masterful blend of ingredients: fish straight from the lota (fish market), paired with hand-selected vegetables, fragrant herbs, and quintessential Portuguese aromas.
Dining here isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. A visit to Cascais simply isn’t complete without immersing yourself in this unique atmosphere and indulging in some of the freshest, most flavourful seafood the coast has to offer.
Cafe Paris
If you find yourself wandering the enchanting streets of Sintra, a visit to Café Paris is an absolute must. Nestled in the heart of the historic centre, directly facing the majestic Royal Palace, this iconic restaurant has been a beloved part of Sintra’s cultural and culinary landscape since 1945.
With its elegant ambiance and decades of impeccable service, Café Paris has long been a gathering place for locals and travelers alike. Over the years, it has proudly welcomed a distinguished list of guests, including European royalty, heads of state, acclaimed writers, artists, and intellectuals from around the world, earning its reputation as the most emblematic eatery in Sintra. From the delicately painted ceiling frescoes and marbled walls to the gilded mirror frames, every detail evokes a refined, romantic spirit. Step into the dining room and you’ll feel transported to an 18th-century French palace, where timeless charm meets gourmet excellence.
Whether you’re stopping in for a glass of wine or settling in for a full meal, Café Paris offers more than just delicious food, it offers a slice of Sintra’s soul.
Maré
After falling in love with Cantinho do Avillez, we couldn’t resist exploring another of José Avillez’s culinary masterpieces—this time at Maré, his stunning seaside restaurant in Guincho. Perched dramatically above the Atlantic, Maré celebrates the extraordinary freshness and flavour of Portuguese fish and seafood, delivering a dining experience that is as refined as it is rooted in the coast.
With its laid-back atmosphere and ocean-inspired décor, Maré feels like an extension of the natural landscape that surrounds it. The space is thoughtfully designed with two elegant dining rooms and two open-air terraces, all offering breathtaking views of the sea. Inside, nautical elements and subtle textures evoke the ocean’s rhythm, creating a setting that is both sophisticated and serene, ideal for a romantic dinner, a special celebration, or even a memorable business event.
We left not only satiated, but completely captivated, our taste buds dancing and our hearts full. Maré isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of the sea, served with style.
Marisco Na Praça
Experience the true essence of the sea, brought to life through the rich tradition of Portuguese gastronomy with an exciting twist. At this vibrant seafood haven, you’re invited to handpick your meal straight from the seafood stall, a dazzling display of the day’s freshest catch. Whether you choose fish or shellfish by the kilo, gram, or piece, everything is prepared to your liking, ensuring a fully personalized and ultra-fresh dining experience.
The menu is a celebration of seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, offering a mix of classic Portuguese dishes and bold, inventive creations inspired by Peruvian fusion cuisine. We couldn’t resist indulging in a spread of fresh oysters, succulent prawns, and perfectly prepared cod, each bite bursting with authentic flavour and coastal flair. It’s more than a meal, it’s a culinary journey through the ocean, one you won’t soon forget.
Sr. Manuel – Yellow Street
If you’re in search of a vibrant dinner spot that blends incredible atmosphere with unforgettable food, make your way to Rua Amarela. This charming pedestrian zone, known for its iconic yellow cobblestone paving, is made up of three lively streets that pulse with energy, colour, and the irresistible scent of great food.
At the heart of it all is Sr. Manuel, a stylish and modern seafood restaurant and bar that puts the spotlight on top-quality local ingredients. From the freshest catch of the day to perfectly crafted cocktails, everything here is designed to celebrate the flavours of the coast in a setting that’s as welcoming as it is trend-forward. Whether you’re here for a leisurely dinner, a night out with friends, or simply to soak up the local vibe, Sr. Manuel at Rua Amarela delivers a dining experience that’s as memorable as it is mouthwatering.
Activities
A Luxurious Couples Massage
During our stay at EVOLUTION Cascais-Estoril, we decided to indulge in a truly unforgettable experience, the SAYANNA Signature Massage at their luxurious Wellness Suite. From the moment we stepped in, we were transported into a world of calm, greeted by a private ocean view that set the perfect tone for relaxation. The immersive massage was both soothing and revitalizing, expertly tailored to melt away every ounce of tension.
But the indulgence didn’t stop there. After the massage, we slipped into an exclusive jacuzzi for two, where we toasted with champagne flutes in hand, surrounded by the gentle scent of essential oils and the sweet touch of artisan chocolates. It was the ultimate moment of serenity, romantic, restorative, and completely unforgettable.
Guincho Beach
Nestled within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Guincho Beach is a place where nature puts on a truly spectacular show. Here, sweeping white sand dunes meet the rugged, forested slopes of the Serra de Sintra, creating a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop. The contrast between the golden coast and the deep green hills is nothing short of breathtaking.
Guincho isn’t your typical sunbathing spot, it’s wild, untamed, and windswept, a paradise for adventurers and lovers of raw natural beauty. While the wind here is strong (consider yourself warned!), it only adds to the beach’s rugged charm. Whether you’re capturing the view, enjoying a brisk walk, or watching the waves crash with incredible force, Guincho offers a coastal experience like no other.
Pena Palace
One of the absolute highlights of our trip was exploring Sintra’s iconic gem, a place that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a fairytale. With its vibrant, candy-coloured buildings, whimsical towers and turrets, and breathtaking hilltop views, this landmark is nothing short of magical.
Wandering through its winding paths and ornate halls as a family made the experience even more special. We were completely drawn in by the rich history and architectural splendour of this UNESCO World Heritage site, where every corner holds a story and every detail sparks wonder.
Sintra National Palace
Rising proudly in the heart of Sintra, the National Palace is an unmissable landmark, instantly recognisable by its twin conical chimneys that crown the historic royal kitchen. These iconic spires pierce the skyline, shaping Sintra’s silhouette and offering a visual reminder of the palace’s grandeur and deep-rooted legacy. As the only palace to have witnessed the full sweep of Portuguese history, it stands not just as an architectural marvel, but as a living chronicle of the nation’s royal past. Step inside, and you’ll uncover centuries of stories woven into every room, tile, and archway.
Conveniently located just steps from Café Paris, the palace is truly the cultural and historical heartbeat of Sintra, a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the soul of this magical town.
Dolphin Watching
When we heard there was a chance to spot dolphins in the wild, we couldn’t resist, and with 4Adventures Tours, the experience was nothing short of magical. This unforgettable journey along the stunning Cascais coastline offered the perfect blend of excitement, wonder, and unforgettable family memories.
Departing from Cascais Marina, the expert crew at 4Adventures led us to the best vantage points to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Their deep knowledge of the area and marine life ensured we were in the right place at the right time, without ever compromising the well-being of the dolphins.
What made the tour even more special was the care and respect shown for the ocean’s delicate ecosystem. Maintaining a thoughtful distance, we were able to capture breathtaking moments without disturbing the dolphins’ natural behavior. With ideal conditions and a bit of luck, we got to see a beautiful pod of dolphins and a beautiful brush with nature we’ll always remember.
Cascais Traditional Market
If you love markets, this one is an absolute must-visit! A vibrant blend of tradition and modern charm, it offers far more than just your everyday shopping experience. By day, it’s a classic Portuguese market, brimming with fresh produce, fragrant flowers, local meats, and the catch of the day. But beyond the stalls, you’ll discover a lively hub of restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops, open daily and buzzing with energy. Whether you’re picking up ingredients for a picnic or indulging in a leisurely lunch, this market captures the authentic spirit of the community, fresh, flavourful, and full of life.
Overall Thoughts
Our time in Cascais was nothing short of incredible. From the moment we arrived, we were swept up in the town’s vibrant charm, coastal beauty, and endless opportunities for adventure. Our accommodation had everything we could possibly need, offering the perfect base for relaxation and exploration. We indulged in mouthwatering meals, discovered breathtaking sights, and found ourselves constantly delighted by the variety of things to see and do.
Whether it was wandering through historic streets, lounging on sun-drenched beaches, or enjoying family-friendly attractions, Cascais delivered at every turn. It’s a destination that’s not only beautiful and welcoming, but also ideal for families, and one we can’t recommend highly enough.
***Thank you to Visit Cascais for kindly sponsoring this post. All opinions are 100% honest & completely my own.
