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Beaches The entire Lisbon coast has fabulous beaches. Highlights include classic Lisbon Coast surfer’s beaches like Praia do Guincho and Carcavelos beach, and the beach at Belem. Don’t forget the Costa da Caparica which is dotted with a great assortment of resorts linked by local train.
20th Century Elegance Estoril, Cascais and Sintra are easily accessible and packed with early 20th century glamour and eccentricity. Cascais is good for quality dining and nightlife. Sintra is a totally idiosyncratic mix that simply has to be seen. Each of these towns is nicely manageable as a day trip and has excellent walks and fine restaurants.
Estoril Casino A must. The inspiration for James Bond’s Casino Royale. One of the classic casinos of Europe and one of the largest. Tremendous fun in the heart of one of the most extraordinary resorts on the Lisbon coast.
Fiestas When travelling around the region look out for posters promoting small village fiestas. They are invariably charming and hospitable affairs with communal outdoor eating, traditional dancing and local orchestras. A fine way into Portuguese culture and country life. Lisbon One of the great European city-break destinations: tremendous character, trams, funiculars, great bars and lively distinct neighbourhoods like the Barrio Alto. A manageable, likeable city packed with atmosphere. Modern attractions include the Parque Das Nacoes and the amazing Oceanarium, one of Europe’s finest aquariums. Search out the curiously haunting traditional Fado music and sample fantastic cosmopolitan Lisbon nightlife, which is particularly strong on attractive, trendy, small-scale bars in old-fashioned neighbourhoods.
Surfing Lisbon coast surfing has a great reputation. The glorious beaches of the Lisbon coast are a Mecca for surfers. You can learn in resorts like Praia D'El Rey and Carcavelos. Lisbon coast watersports also include windsurfing and sailing. Excellent canoeing and fishing on rivers and lakes in the Lisbon coast region.
Nature Lisbon coast birdwatching and walking in the atmospheric Tejo estuary reserve. Horse riding and walking in the Arrabida and Sintra-Cascais National Parks and the Sintra National Forest. Lisbon coast holidays also offer rewarding cruises, deep sea fishing and river canoeing.
Golf Lisbon coast golf is second in importance only to golf on the Algarve. Superb Lisbon golf courses include the Oitavos Golf Club and Praia D'El Rey.
Excursions As well as Sintra, Cascais, Estoril and Lisbon, visit rewarding Lisbon Coast attractions like the beautiful medieval village of Obidos, the rococo Palacio de Queluz and Mafra monastery. The region is a treat for fans of castles and forts.
Costa da Caparica Don’t miss this 18 mile stretch of fine beaches, sand dunes, coves and lagoons A great selection of Lisbon coast beach resorts ranging from quiet, uncrowded family resorts to lively nightspots, all brimming over with genuine Portuguese atmosphere. Excellent beaches around Setubal on the Troia Peninsula. Visit Galapos beach, the little fishing village of Portinho da Arrabida and charming small towns like Alcabideche.
Cabo da Roca Lighthouse A short drive from Cascais. Watch the sunset at the westernmost point of mainland Europe.
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