The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Estoril

The Cidadela de Cascais (Cascais Citadel) is a fascinating fortress complex that guards the marina and the bay. It is a unique mix of military history and modern art. Here is a summary of what makes it special: 1. Living History The Citadel is not just a ruin; it is a restored fortification with three main parts: The Fortress of Nossa Senhora da Luz: Built between the 15th and 17th centuries to defend the coast from pirates and Spanish troops. The Royal Palace: It became the summer residence of the Portuguese Royal Family in the late 19th century (King D. Luís I). Because of this, Cascais transformed from a fishing village into a "Court town," attracting the aristocracy. Presidential Residence: Today, the Palace is still an official summer residence for the President of Portugal, but parts of it can be visited (guided tours are often available via the Museum of the Presidency). 2. The "Art District" (Modern Twist) A few years ago, the Citadel was revitalized. It now houses a luxury hotel (Pestana Cidadela) and the Cidadela Art District. Open Courtyards: You can walk freely into the fortress courtyards. It is no longer a closed military zone. Galleries & Studios: The old barracks have been converted into art galleries, studios, and bookshops. It is very common to see artists working there. "Déjà Lu" Bookshop: A charming charity bookshop located inside the complex, highly recommended for book lovers. 3. What to Do Walk Through: It serves as a perfect connection between the Marina and the Culture Centre/Marechal Carmona Park. See the Views: The walls offer great angles for photos of the marina and the sea. Cultural Stop: Visit the Palace museum or simply wander the Art District to see contemporary sculptures contrasting with ancient stone walls. Summary: It is a place where you can see 16th-century cannons and 21st-century modern art in the same 10-minute walk.

The "Green Heart" of Cascais This park is the perfect peaceful retreat, blending nature, history, and leisure just steps away from the Marina. Key Highlights: Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum: A fairytale-like palace with a famous tower overlooking the water (a must-see). Roaming Animals: Famous for its free-roaming peacocks, ducks, and roosters, making it very popular with children. Chapel of São Sebastião: A small, historic chapel with beautiful tiles inside the park grounds. Activities: Great for picnics and family walks (lots of shade and playgrounds). Hosts a popular Organic Market on Saturday mornings. Venue for major events like the "Cascais Christmas Village."

Nice little beach - beautiful

East of the Mouth of Hell (Boca do Inferno), a bizarre, rugged rocky landscape stretches along the banks of the Tejo.

Praia de São Pedro do Estoril is one of the most charming and peaceful beaches on the Costa do Sol, ideal for those looking to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the more central beaches of Estoril and Cascais. It boasts fine, golden sand, with a narrow strip that turns into natural pools among the rocks at low tide, very popular with children and teenagers.

Tiago Hacke Portuguese-German, born in Germany but raised in Cascais, began painting murals in 1998. He trained in Fine Arts in Manchester and Paris, and has been a professional muralist since 2015.

The dolphin mural in Estoril, created by artist Tiago Hacke, is part of his series of works dedicated to Portuguese marine biodiversity, a theme he has intensively explored in recent years.

Praia da Duquesa is one of Cascais's most central and popular beaches, ideal for those seeking convenience, beauty, and water activities. It's located between two historic mansions—Chalet Faial and Chalet Palmela—and is directly connected to Praia da Conceição, forming a single beach at low tide.