Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(Av Rei Humberto II de Itália; 10am-6pm Tue-Sun)
The colourful Centro Cultural de Cas-
cais, in what was a barefooted Carmelite convent, hosts contemporary exhibitions and cul-
tural events.
Museu do Mar
MUSEUM
( 214 825 400; Rua Júlio Pereira de Mello; 10am-5pm Tue-Sun)
The small Museu do Mar
spells out Cascais' maritime history with costumes, tools, nets and boats, accompanied by
quotes (in English) from the fisherfolk.
Boca do Inferno
Atlantic waves pummel craggy Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell), 2km west of Cascais.
It's about a 20-minute walk along the coast, or you can take a taxi (around €4 one-way).
Expect a mouthful of small splashes unless a storm is raging.
LOOKOUT
Beaches
Cascais' three sandy bays - Praia da Conceição, Praia da Rainha and Praia da Ribeira -
are fine for a sunbake or a tingly Atlantic dip, but don't expect much towel space in sum-
mer.
The best beach is wild, windswept Praia do Guincho, 9km northwest, a mecca to surfers
and windsurfers with massive crashing rollers. The strong undertow can be dangerous for
swimmers, but Guincho still lures nonsurfers with powder-soft sands, fresh seafood and
magical sunsets.
Activities
If you're keen to ride the waves, grab your boardies and check out the surfing courses
available at
Moana Surf School
( 964 449 436;
www.moanasurfschool.com
; introductory 75min lesson €25, 4
lessons €85)
. It also rents boards and wetsuits.
Guincho Surf School
(
917 535 719; 1/2/5 lessons €30/
50/100)
also offers classes.
Cascais Watersports Centre
( 10am-7.30pm)
At Praia da Duquesa, midway between Cascais and Estoril, you can rent
pedaloes, canoes and arrange water-skiing jaunts and windsurfing.
WATER SPORTS
