Nearby to the retreat you have Praia do Tamariz with its salt-water swimming pool but in fact the whole coastline offers a seemingly endless amount of dramatic and ever-changing scenery, culminating in the extraordinary town of Sintra, the end-of-summer getaway for royals over 100 years ago and now an official World Heritage Site. Truly one of the most unusual and magical places to experience in Europe, the centrepieces are undoubtedly the Pena Palace and Park, which many say was the inspiration for Cinderella’s castle in Disney’s Magic Kingdom; the mystical and symbolic Quinta da Regaleira Palace with its tunnels, magical grottos, fountains and gothic architecture; and right at Sintra’s highest point, the Moorish Castle offering outstanding views across the mountains and down to the Atlantic. Marvel at the unspoilt sand dunes and untamed waves at Guincho beach with its consistent waves that attract surfers from all over the world.

 

Exploring Cascais is a voyage of discovery. On the one hand there is the original historic area that has a distinct nautical air about it – with its cobbled winding streets leading down to the cozy harbour where the day’s fresh catch is still sold by local fishermen in the nearby square. Have a light lunch at the cafe in the charming Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum and check out the Atlantic views.

 

Cascais is also a magnet for night owls, providing an eclectic range of evening entertainment that offers everything from pubs, cafes, restaurants, vegan restaurants, glitzy cocktail lounges to cosy craft beer bars and to late night clubbing. Lisbon can easily reached with a direct 30 minute train ( 2,50 EUR ) from Monte Estoril train station that is just a 5min walk from The Salty Pelican... A perfect day trip to discover all the hidden arcades, amazing restaurants, the famous Pastéis de Belém's (Famous Portuguese pastry) and the beautiful architecture.