2 Amazing Walks Around Cascais, Portugal
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the lush Sintra mountains, the Portuguese town of Cascais is one of the most beautiful and famous seaside resorts in Europe. Located only 20 miles (30 kms) west of Lisbon, it is easily accessible by car or via a short commuter train ride.
Cascais is a charming town with cobbled streets in the historic centre, along with squares and sidewalks in the form of traditional Portuguese mosaic patterns. There are also a number of boutiques, restaurants, and outdoor cafés for you to enjoy during your visit.
Its relatively flat terrain makes Cascais an ideal town to explore on foot, especially for the active 50+ crowd.
And if that weren’t enough, Cascais is home to 17 beaches as well as a stunning coastline that you can fully appreciate by taking two different yet equally scenic walks.
Doing the walks in the order shown will ensure you can spend some relaxing time on the beach later in the day and then enjoy a great meal before heading back to Lisbon.
1. Amble to the Mouth of Hell and Back
How to Get to Hell
One of the best ways to appreciate Cascais’s spectacular coastal areas is to walk west from the town centre along the waterfront to a natural rock and cliff formation called the Boca do Inferno, or Mouth of Hell.
The 1.5-mile (2.5-km) walk to the Boca do Inferno takes about 25–30 minutes at a leisurely pace, so plan for about an hour for the 3-mile (5-km) round-trip.
And if you wish to extend your walk, the iconic Farol da Guia — Cascais’s iconic lighthouse — is only an additional mile (1.5 kms) farther along the path.
Admire the Brutal Force of the Atlantic
To get to the Boca do Inferno, follow the road along the shore from the Praia da Rainha (Rainha Beach) towards the Cidadela de Cascais (citadel) and the marina.
Continue towards the Farol Museu de Santa Marta (museum) and then up along the rugged Atlantic coast to reach the Boca da Inferno.
As you make your way there, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the soaring cliff faces and rock formations that have been battered and eroded away by the powerful ocean waves.
See the Volcano Erupt
The Boca do Inferno was originally a cave that collapsed, leaving an arch and a chasm filled with sea water. The arch, which forms the “mouth,” acts as a large funnel for large waves to come crashing through to the base of the chasm.
During high tides or particularly stormy weather, the water from the giant waves is violently forced upwards similar to a volcanic eruption.
Catch a Better Glimpse of the Eruption
You can stand at the edge of the cliff and view the waves as they break and swirl against the rocks. Or, for a closer look, you can take a pathway down the cliff to one of the viewing platforms.
Keep in mind that the platforms can get very busy during peak tourist season.
2. A Picturesque Seaside Stroll
Enjoy the Sites and Grab a Bite
The promenade between Cascais and Estoril is another amazing walk where you can truly appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
This walk takes you in the opposite direction from the one to the Boca do Inferno. Although the promenade continues further to Sao Joao do Estoril, it’s best to end your walk at Estoril — the halfway point.
You will have more restaurant options if you end your walk at Estoril. As well, the walk to the Sao Joao do Estoril station involves climbing steep steps up the face of the cliff.
Meander Between the Beaches and Cliffs
The route starts at the Praia da Conceição in Cascais and ends at the Praia da Azarujinha in Estoril to the east. Being completely flat, this walk is suitable for people of all ages and abilities.
The promenade is about 2 miles (3 kms) long. It follows the sea walls that line the beaches and rocky outcrops along the coast.
As you stroll along the promenade, you will see many interesting sights and historical buildings including a number of grand 19th-century mansions, as well as charming shops and cafés.
Chill Out in the Sand and Surf
Along the way, you will also walk by several golden, sandy beaches where you can swim and take a break for part of the day.
Although the water from the Atlantic can be quite cold, it can provide some welcome relief from the scorching heat during the summer months.
Top your day off by having a nice dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area before catching the train back to Lisbon from the Estorial train station.
Cascais is Beckoning You
With its stunning scenery and easy accessibility, Cascais is a “must see” destination for anyone who travels to Lisbon, especially for those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of a large city.
This delightful town on the Portuguese Riviera has a lot to offer, from its amazing coastline, many gorgeous beaches, and beautiful walking paths that anyone can enjoy.
Be sure to include Cascais in your Portuguese travel plans. You won’t be disappointed.