Cascais:
Situated close to the sea and traditionally a fishing village, Cascais enjoyed an important period of development in the 14th century, when it was a major stopping off point for boats on their way to Lisbon, turning it into a very busy port at that time.
It was, however, in the second half of the 19th century, when sea bathing became a popular activity, that Cascais was given the impetus that transformed it into a very fashionable summer resort. The great driving force behind this transformation was the king of Portugal, Dom Luís I, who, in 1870, converted the Fortaleza da Cidadela into the summer residence of the Portuguese monarchy. The king’s example was immediately copied by the nobility, who built palaces and extremely beautiful villas in the town, where they spent the hottest season of the year, completely transforming the appearance of the former fishing village.
Cascais also began to attract the attention of the curious, who came here to enjoy a stroll by the seaside.
Estoril:
Estoril, a world-famous resort, is a true cosmopolitan centre with wonderful nightlife and all the infrastructure for a summer centre - beaches, excellent hotels, golf courses, a casino and even a motor-racing circuit.
The planned transformation of this area began in the early 20th century, due not only to its proximity to the sea, which was starting to be a focus of attraction, but also to the existence of thermal springs, at that time much in vogue (they are currently closed).
The centre of this new luxury resort was the Park and the Casino (Estoril´s trademark), surrounded by buildings, arcades and excellent hotels.
Estoril was previously known for the several forts along the coastline which ensured the defence of one of the possible entries to Lisbon, and for the Retreat built here by the Mendicant Order of Franciscan Friars in the 16th century, now the Salesian College.
In the 1930s Estoril became one of Portugal´s main tourist centres.
Beaches:
BEACH DA CONCEIÇÃO:
Located next to the Nossa Senhora da Conceição Chapel after which it is named, Conceição Beach does not extend very far although a low tide it links up with the Duquesa Beach.
With good access by stairway or ramp leading up to the promenade, this beach always has its own particular atmosphere guaranteed by the range of restaurants, bars and terraces here.
Characteristics and Services: Average seawater temperature in summer (ºC) : 17-19 ºC; Facilities for disabled; Showers; Windsurfing; Sailing; Diving.
Beach DUQUESA:
With access from the centre of Cascais, Duquesa Beach owes its name to the small Palace of the Dukes of Palmela located to the west.
The Beach is easily reached from the promenade where there are a series of restaurants, bars and terraces.
BEACH PAREDE:
Due to its excellent combination of iodine and hours of sunshine, Parede Beach has long been in demand for its therapeutic properties in treating bone disease.
