Cascais, Estoril & Sintra In Portugal
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Often called "The Riviera of Portugal", the coastal regions of Estoril and Cascais are known for their beautiful beaches, pleasant climate throughout the year and a thoroughly modern cosmopolitan atmosphere. Estoril in particular is known as the home of some of the most beautiful homes in Portugal and indeed, in Europe.
Estoril gained renown after World War II when the city became home to the deposed kings of Hungary, Romania, Spain, Albania, Italy and other European nations. Infante Juan, father of King Juan Carlos of Spain lived here; the King grew up in Estoril and visits frequently to this day. Other former heads of state who have called Estoril home, at least for a time, include King Edward VIII, who came to Estoril after abdicating the throne. Former Cuban President Juan Baptista found refuge here as well after the coup that brought Fidel Castro to power.
Estoril has a wealth of attractions to offer visitors, including Europe's largest casino, no less than ten world class golf courses in the region, international schools, marinas and unequalled beaches along its waterfront, luxury hotels, tennis facilities, health clubs, equestrian centers and certainly no shortage of gourmet dining and excellent shopping.
Another of Estoril's many claims to fame is that Ian Fleming, best known for his series of James Bond novels spent much of World War II in Estoril as a spy for MI6. His book Casino Royale is partly based on his time in Estoril - and the film version of the Bond novel "On Her Majesty's Service" was filmed in Estoril and the nearby town of Sintra.
Located just 15 miles from Lisbon International Airport and even closer to Tires Airport (which is a private airport), Estoril is located perfectly for anyone in search of a vacation property, a permanent home to settle down in or simply to visit while on holiday. Cascais, a pleasant seaside town is close enough to walk to from Estoril, all the charm of Sintra a short drive of ten minutes away; and even all of the activity and culture of Lisbon is less than twenty minutes away by car. As you would expect from its proximity to the city of Lisbon, Estoril is a city which is up to the minute and offers leisure, sport, nightlife and cultural activities to rival any other in Europe.
Cascais is has a slower pace, despite being so close to the bustle of Estoril and Lisbon; this is a fishing village where life still follows traditional patterns in many ways. If you'll be in Estoril or Lisbon, Cascais is a place you simply must see. You can enjoy the beauty of Guincho Beach, located on the Atlantic Ocean, visit the Cascais historical center, or take a quick trip back to Estoril and its many golf courses.
Sintra, a town which holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a town which has lost none of its charm despite the short distance to all the modern amenities of Estoril and Lisbon. The town is located in a microclimate which allows incredible gardens and orchids to thrive nearly the whole year round. Sintra was formerly the summer home of the Royal Family of Portugal, so here you will see their royal palace, the Palacio da Pena, which looks as if it came right out of a fairytale. Lord Byron's source of inspiration for his renowned poem Childe Harold was Sintra's Monserratte gardens, which should be on your list of places to see in this incredibly charming Portuguese town.
It's easier than ever to visit Sintra and see all of its historic charm thanks to recent transportation upgrades which allow you to make your way to the beach at Estoril or Cascais or the many golf courses to be found nearby in just minutes. Since Sintra is also only 25 minutes away from Lisbon Airport by car, you could literally be here within minutes of landing. Living in Sintra means living amongst the rich history and culture of Portugal and literally walking in the footsteps of royalty.
For more information on these stunning parts of Portugal contact the Portugal property team via email at: info@portugalproperty.com or call free on +44 (0) 800 014 8201
Published in: Guide to Portugal