Guide to Cascais

'Kings of old once flocked to this charming town, now one of Portugal's best-loved holiday destinations.'

This gorgeous little town was made for strolling. Tiny winding lanes are crammed with whitewashed houses and splashed with fragrant blooms. Cosy cafes and restaurants beckon you in for a cup of coffee or a bite to eat. And old palaces and magnificent villas point to a time when kings, aristocrats, politicians and writers wandered the streets. These days, of course, the cobbles buzz with the relaxed chatter of holidaymakers who flock here during the summer months. From humble beginnings – Cascais started life as a small fishing port – it's blossomed into one of Portugal's most popular resorts, striking just the right balance between cosmopolitan chic and traditional charm. If you were ever in any doubt of its royal connections, just take a look at some of the town's beaches. Stretch out on 'Marchioness' or unwind on 'Queen'. The heartbeat of Cascais is the smart marina where glossy yachts bob beside a jumble of brightly-coloured fishing boats – a great spot for an after-dinner stroll. If you're a lover of history, don't miss the town's Municipal Museum which features rare Indo-Portuguese-style furniture and a library stacked with more than 25,000 books. Another one to tick off your sightseeing list is the 16th-century Fort of Cascais, known as the Cidadela. It was built to protect the Bay of Cascais and forms part of a whole line of fortresses along the Tagus estuary, put up to protect Lisbon from invasion. When you're ready to relax, stroll through one of the sweet-smelling parks or laze on the sands and soak up the ambience of this sophisticated spot.

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