It is true that the days are getting shorter, but Cascais still has a lot to discover at this time of year. From strolling with stunning views to visiting the village’s landmarks, see what to do in winter in Cascais.
Conceição, Rainha and Pescadores beaches
Just 5 minutes from Hotel Baía, Conceição beach is an excellent starting point for a walk around the village. Even without the summer heat, a walk along the seafront and a coffee on a terrace always feels good. Also pass by Rainha beach and follow the cobbled streets in Pescadores beach, where the Monument to the Portuguese Discoveries is located.
Historic Centre
Although smaller than in other places, the historic center of Cascais has a lot to see and is definitely worth visiting. On Rua Frederico Arouca, one of the main streets in the village, there is no shortage of shops, restaurants and artists to entertain passers-by. It is in this area that you can also find the Seixas Palace and other emblematic buildings. In Alameda dos Combatentes da Grande Guerra, you can see why you are strolling along the so-called “Portuguese Riviera”.
“Boca do Inferno” (Mouth of helll)
Later in the article we return to other places close to the historic center, but for now we are going to Boca do Inferno. Less than a 20-minute walk from the Hotel Baía, it is one of the most beautiful places in the Lisbon district. If you want to enjoy a breathtaking view of the sea and the sunset, this is the perfect place even in winter.
“Casa da Guia” (Guide House)
And speaking of stunning views, what about Casa da Guia? Located between Boca do Inferno and Guincho, it is an emblematic place in Cascais with several restaurants, terraces, shops, leisure facilities and the Atlantic Ocean as far as the eye can see. If you want to spend a relaxed winter afternoon with the whole family, you already know where to go.
Guincho road
On foot, by bike or car, it’s a great way to do it in winter in Cascais, right after visiting Boca do Inferno and Casa da Guia. On this road you will always see the sea and have the opportunity to observe several surfers looking for the best wave.
Nossa Senhora da Luz Fortress
The Nossa Senhora da Luz Fortress, located in the Citadel of Cascais, is well worth a visit. Damaged by the 1755 earthquake, it currently serves as the official summer residence of the President of the Republic and lends its facilities to the Portuguese Army. It is just a 5-minute walk from Hotel Baía.
“Farol Museu de Santa Marta” (Lighthouse Museum of Santa Marta)
Not far from the fortress, you’ll be able to take one of the most beautiful photos in the Cascais area. Open to the public since 2007, the Farol Museu de Santa Marta combines exhibition spaces with the function of coastal signaling, but it is mainly worth it for the outdoor scenery with the sea in the background.
Village Museum
Right next to the Hotel Baía, the Vila Museum is divided into five thematic areas and exhibits some of the most emblematic pieces of the municipality’s history. If it’s a rainy day, or you just want to learn more about the transformation of the fishing village into a cosmopolitan Cascais, don’t hesitate to enter this space.
“Casa das Histórias Paula Rego” (House of Stories Paula Rego)
Inaugurated in 2009, Casa das Histórias Paula Rego is immediately distinguished by the two pyramidal structures of equal size and by the red pigmented concrete. Designed by architect Eduardo Souto Moura, this museum welcomes and promotes the dissemination and study of Paula Rego’s work. It is about 7 minutes from Hotel Baía.
“Paredão de Cascais” (Wall of Cascais)
Already on the way to Estoril, the Paredão de Cascais appears right after the beaches mentioned at the beginning of the article. Along the 2750 meters that compose it, you can get to know some more beaches and sit on a terrace or bench enjoying the view.
There is no shortage of things to do in Cascais in winter
In addition to all the recommendations given above, what to do in winter in Cascais goes far beyond that. For those who like to practice sports, it is very easy to find good golf and padel courses in the area, and with Sintra and Lisbon nearby, plans for this winter will not be lacking at all.
After all, there is no shortage of reasons to book your stay at the Hotel Baía Cascais!