Portugal. Lisbon Riviera - reviews. Luxury Lisbon Riviera Riviera Portugal

Since time immemorial, Cascais has been more than just a port and a town of fishermen. It played a huge defensive role due to its close location to the Portuguese capital and its convenient location at the mouth of the Tagus.

Igreja paroquial de Nossa Senhora da Assuncao is the oldest temple in Cascais. In 1671, a magnificent temple was erected on the site of the old wooden chapel. A strong earthquake that struck Portugal in the mid-18th century caused serious damage to the church and completely destroyed the Church of the Ascension of Christ. Restoration work has begun.

Igreja Santo Antonio do Estoril is the most frequently visited attraction in Estoril. The foundation of the temple dates back to the beginning of the 16th century. The construction of the church took place on the site of a small wooden chapel dedicated to Saint Roch. The Franciscan monks received it as a gift and built a new parish church.

Forte de Sao Teodosio was an important part of the defensive structures that stretched from Cape Roca to Fort Sant'Juliano. Initially, the fort was named after Prince Theodosius, the son of the Portuguese King João IV. In the 18th century it was renamed Fort St. Peter.

Lisbon Riviera

  • Publication date: 28.03.2015

Resorts of the Lisbon Riviera: Estoril and Cascais

Costa De Lisboa or Lisbon Riviera occupies a long coastal strip Atlantic Ocean. The Riviera originates at the confluence with the Tagus River and extends hundreds of kilometers to the north. Its main resorts are the cities of Estoril and Cascais, which are located very close to the capital.

These resorts are called Sunny Beach. They are one of the most popular places recreation for both tourists and the local population. Local residents give them their preference. There is an atmosphere of relaxation and fun here.

Warm waters and sandy beaches will delight you with a developed infrastructure and full of pleasure nightlife and gourmet menus from coastal restaurants.

Historical information about the Lisbon Riviera

The most fashionable resort of the Riviera appeared in the 14th century in the form of a small fishing village. Estoril played a vital role during the Age of Discovery, serving as a sea and trading port.

Second half XIX century brought Estoril European fame. It has turned into the largest resort and tourist center.

The cream of the European aristocracy considered it their duty to visit the popular resort. Prominent political figures, popular pop and film stars, writers and national security agents vacationed here. Ian Fleming, Indira Gandhi, Stefan Zweig, Jean Renoir and many other famous personalities wandered the streets of Estoril.

Royalty, deposed and reigning, came to the resort. Some found refuge in these blessed places, others plunged into a sea of ​​pleasures.

During the Second World War in Estoril Numerous migrants arrived from various countries.

The rapid prosperity of the resort was favored by an unsurpassed climate, high level service and construction of casinos. It became a place of excitement and espionage passions. The first 007 book by Ian Fleming begins in the Estoril casino.

The second most popular Portuguese resort Cascais its foundation owes to the fishermen who came to these lands in the 12th century. For a long time, Cascais was under the control of Sintra. It gained its independence only in 1364.

For most of its existence, Cascais was considered a fishing village. Today it is famous for its sea catches and you can watch the return of fishing boats and taste the freshest seafood. In addition, viticulture, olives and grain crops are well developed in the suburbs.

Resort life in Cascais began in late XIX century, when the Portuguese monarch Luis I ordered a summer residence to be built on the shore. Nowadays it houses the presidential residence.

Holidays in Cascais are calmer compared to resort life in Estoril. However, ancient quarters, luxurious mansions and historical landmarks have also been preserved here.

Geographical location of the Lisbon Riviera

Estoril nestled in beautiful bay on the Atlantic coast. It is separated from the capital by fifteen kilometers. It is part of the Greater Lisbon subregion and is the main resort Lisbon Riviera.

Cascais covers several areas west of the capital and is located twenty-five kilometers away from it.

Both cities are connected to the capital by electric train lines and highways. Cascais has a municipal airport.

Climatic features of the Lisbon Riviera

Estoril and Cascais have a temperate maritime climate, for which they are nicknamed the “sunny coast”.

The beach season here lasts almost all year round. It is believed that the best time for relaxation begins in May and lasts until the middle of the second autumn month. The tourist peak is observed in July-August.

In summer average temperature air is approaching +30 degrees Celsius. IN winter period it rarely drops below +12 degrees.

During the summer months, ocean water temperatures often rise above 20 degrees Celsius.

How to get to the Lisbon Riviera

Getting to Estoril and Cascais from the Portuguese capital is easy by bus or electric train. The fare to Estoril will be about 3 euros and will take fifteen minutes. It takes a little longer to get to Cascais and the cost is about 7 euros.

Buses and trains depart from the capital several times a day, and you can also use routes along the route, for example, Lisbon-Porto.

The Lisbon-Cascais train departs from the capital several times a day, passing through Estoril.

An excellent highway allows you to travel by rented car. The cost will be from 200 euros.

Where to stay on the Lisbon Riviera

The number and variety of hotels, guest houses, apartments, and hostels in Estoril and Cascais will definitely allow you to choose the right type of accommodation for your vacation. Some are located near beaches, others are located directly next to entertainment complexes and historical monuments. Hotels in the best traditions of European hospitality - high level of service and maintenance, staff who speak several languages.

· Luxury hotel Palacio Estoril Hotel Golf & Spa 5* is located in the city of Estoril and has a modern spa center created in Asian style.

The hotel is surrounded by a magnificent garden, adjacent to a huge golf course. Year-round open pool, terraces for relaxation and sunbathing are created for comfortable rest. Fans can take a steam bath in the sauna or Turkish bath, go to the fitness center, pamper themselves with massages and take hot tubs. A bicycle rental service is available on site. There is a golf course and the Estoril Casino nearby.

Spacious rooms have living and working areas. Cable TV, free Internet access and minibars are installed in each room. The cost of living is from 10,685 rubles, there are various categories of rooms.

The hotel has four restaurants and a separate cozy bar with a classic interior. The menu includes dishes of European and national cuisine, and there is also a special diet menu. You can reserve a table on the outdoor terrace.

There is a gift shop on site. The hotel has an excellent business center and conference room.

Address: Rua Particular, 2769-504, Estoril, Portugal.

· A wonderful hotel is especially popular in Cascais "Cascais Miragem Health & Spa" 5*.

It has an outdoor swimming pool overlooking the picturesque ocean coastline. The hotel is surrounded by a beautiful garden. There are terraces for relaxation and sunbathing on the territory.

Health spa centers offer an atmosphere of pleasure and relaxation. The spa's panoramic windows allow you to admire superb sea views. You can visit the sauna and Turkish bath, massage courses, and work out in the fitness room. There is a playground for children.

Most hotel rooms are equipped with panoramic windows. Some rooms boast furnished terraces. Spacious rooms are equipped with a minibar, cable TV, telephone and accessories necessary for a comfortable stay. The cost of living is from 12,465 rubles.

The hotel has two restaurants. The first serves visitors using the “ buffet» with international cuisine. The second specializes in the national menu. You can dine on the outdoor terrace. Upon request, breakfast is served in your room, and dietary meals can be ordered.

There is an excellent bar by the pool with a large selection of champagnes. Sounds here live music.

The conference hall and business center will accept business people for holding meetings, a souvenir shop will pleasantly delight you with products of national craftsmen, a beauty salon will hospitably open its doors to beauties.

Address: Avenida Marginal N., 8554, 2754-536, Cascais, Portugal.

· Magnificent hotel in Cascais "Pousada de Cascais - Cidadela Historic Hotel & Art District" housed in the restored building of the citadel, which once served as a defensive structure. It is a historical monument of the 16th century.

The hotel offers stunning views of the ocean and marina. There is also a golf course and diving center nearby.

The hotel has a modern spa center with a wide range of different treatments. Guests can relax with a massage at the wellness centre. The hotel is open art Gallery. This circumstance distinguishes it from other European hotels.

The shaded garden features indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a sun terrace.

The comfortable rooms are equipped with a seating area and work area. Some rooms have excellent soundproofing and are equipped with personal bars. The rooms are equipped with satellite TV. The cost of hotel accommodation starts from 8975 rubles.

Breakfast is served directly to your room or served as a buffet in the restaurant. The menu consists of international and Portuguese dishes. The bar offers soft drinks, cocktails and alcohol.

The hotel is equipped with an excellent conference room. There is a souvenir shop on site.

Address: Fortaleza da Cidadela, Avenida Dom Carlos I, 2750-000, Cascais, Portugal.

· Excellent hotel "Saboia Estoril Hotel 3*" located on the seashore, surrounded by a well-kept garden with lawns and palm trees. The garden has two terraces for relaxing and sunbathing, and there is also an outdoor swimming pool. At your leisure, you can work out in the fitness room or go on a trip on a rented bicycle. There is a solarium.

The cozy rooms on each floor of the hotel differ in style and interior. Some rooms offer a picturesque sea panorama, while others have a wonderful view of the garden. All rooms are equipped with a work area, air conditioning, satellite TV and telephones. Most rooms have access to a balcony. The cost of living starts from 4773 rubles.

The hotel has a lobby bar serving light snacks and drinks, as well as a snack bar. Breakfast is delivered to your room.

Address: Rua De Belmonte, 1, 2765-398, Estoril, Portugal.

· Hotel with interesting name Albatroz Palace 5* located on a hill. It offers stunning views of the ocean and Cascais Bay.

The outdoor sun terrace is a great place to soak up the warm rays of the sun. There is a swimming pool nearby. The hotel has its own beach. You can visit the solarium and stroll along the city streets. A casino and golf course are nearby. You can go cycling and travel by car by renting transport at one of the rental offices, including those available at the hotel. One kilometer from the hotel is the Cascais Hippodrome.

The hotel's spacious rooms are decorated in soothing colors with a themed touch. All of them are equipped with minibars, air conditioning, cable TV. The cost of living is from 4560 rubles. Some rooms have panoramic windows and balconies.

Breakfast, included in the price, is served as a buffet in a cozy restaurant. If desired, you can order breakfast in your room. The bar is located next to the outdoor terrace and is stocked with a variety of drinks.

Address: Rua Frederico Arouca, 100, 2750-353, Cascais, Portugal.

· There is an excellent hostel in the city of Estoril Blue Boutique Hostel & Suites. It is housed in a restored 18th-century mansion.

The hostel has separate shared rooms for women and men with prices starting from 997 rubles. There are private rooms for two or three people and suites with a private bathroom.

The hostel can accommodate 42 people. For relaxation, there is a common living room with cable TV and free Internet access. There is a barbecue in the garden with necessary supplies. You can relax on the furnished terrace, and there is another terrace with sun loungers for sunbathing.

A kitchen equipped with kitchen utensils is suitable for cooking. The hostel's central location is ideal for visiting various cafes and restaurants. Nearby there is a city beach with lots of entertainment.

The hostel has its own minimarket and bar.

Address: Avenida Marginal, 6538, 2765-586, Estoril, Portugal.

· Hostel with a cheerful name "Ljmonade" offers its rooms to vacationers. It is housed in a recently renovated building in Cascais. It's easy to find by the bright "Crazy Lemon" sign.

Guests have access to a common living room with a fireplace, dining area, cable TV and free Internet access. The hostel has a good library.

For 997 rubles you can stay in a common room, separate for men and women. Also available double rooms with one bed and private bathroom. Most rooms have balconies. For shared rooms, there is a shared bathroom on the floor.

The hostel's cozy kitchen is ideal for preparing home-cooked meals. The room rate includes daily breakfast.

Traditional Portuguese cuisine can be enjoyed at nearby restaurants and cafes. The menu is replete with dishes from the freshest seafood.

In a few minutes of leisurely walking you can reach the hippodrome. Horse riding is taught to everyone here. It takes about five minutes to get to the beaches by transport. The hostel staff can organize fishing, diving, surfing and windsurfing activities.

Address: Rua Manuel Joaqim Gama Machado, 6, 2750-422, Cascais, Portugal.

Lisbon Riviera: beaches of Estoril and Cascais

Immediately behind the city embankment, the excellent Guincho Beach begins. It is always full of surfers and windsurfers, as the sea here is rarely calm. The most popular and largest beach is Tamariz with developed infrastructure and the highest level of service. It smoothly transitions to the beaches of San Pedro, Moitas and Carcavelos.

The beaches of Estoril are created for a comfortable holiday. From parking for cars to beach umbrellas on the beaches - everything serves for the convenience of vacationers. There are showers and changing cabins, cafes and restaurants with delicious Portuguese dishes, bars, and the famous Estoril casino rises on Tamariz beach. Art lovers can see paintings by famous artists. The gallery occupies premises in the casino building. Entrance to the casino is strictly in suits and evening dresses.

A relaxing beach time can be combined with active species sports The beaches have areas for active rest- basketball and volleyball, golf courses. All kinds of accessories and water equipment are rented at rental points. You can ride a scooter on the sea waves or take a horseback ride along the coast. Many water parks will delight visitors with unprecedented attractions and entertainment. Fishing lovers will truly enjoy sea fishing.

Cascais can be considered a youth resort, because a huge number of nightclubs and discos are concentrated here. The city has also preserved ancient quarters with long pedestrian zones. There are many historical and architectural monuments in the center.

Cascais features a huge, modern marina. It can accommodate up to 630 permanent yachts and also has 120 transit spaces.

The magnificent sandy beaches of Cascais start from Guincho Beach, located at the junction with Estoril.

Guincho occupies a small bay surrounded by rocks. The wide exit to the sea in the center is covered by a rock, which creates a large breaking wave. Thousands of fans of windsurfing and kiting experience their fate here. The waves can rise to a height of 1.5 meters, which is dangerous for unprepared beginners.

Guincho regularly hosts windsurfing championships. The best time The day for conquering the waves is considered to be late evening or early morning.

For a calm beach holiday Smaller beaches such as Torre and Riberiu are ideal.

The beaches of Cascais, like the aforementioned beaches of Estoril, have excellent infrastructure. Rescuers work for them around the clock. If a storm is expected, vacationers are notified about this using a flag installed on the shore.

For tourists: notes about the Lisbon Riviera

· Bicycling is very popular in the resort towns of the Lisbon Riviera. Rental centers provide vehicles completely free of charge upon presentation of an identification card. Local residents constantly use this service, and therefore there may not be enough bicycles for vacationers. Then you can contact the Transrent company, where you can rent an excellent bicycle for 8.5 euros per day. Rental offices are located next to the bus station. They also rent cars, motorcycles and scooters.

· Estoril is home to the Estoril Praia football club. Home matches are played at the Estadio António Coimbra di Mota. It seats eight thousand spectators.

· On Tamariz beach, the cafe “Praia do Tamariz” is very popular among tourists. The cozy terrace of the cafe is located ten meters from the sea and offers visitors marvelous seascapes. The cafe serves pasta, pizza, fried pieces of lamb and other delicious dishes. The cod carpaccio and seafood dishes are excellent. However, this location makes prices in the cafe higher than in other coastal establishments.

· You can visit an old tavern and try Latin American cuisine at the Cimas restaurant. In the main hall, an antique fireplace creates a unique atmosphere. Here you can celebrate holidays with a large circle of friends, arrange a banquet or have a romantic date.

· Not far from the Estoril train station is the Italian restaurant “Gordinni”. Italian cuisine is delicious, and the prices in the restaurant are quite pleasantly inexpensive. Tourists especially often order small pizza. Homemade cakes and cakes are popular.

· Argentine cuisine is served at the Al Fresco restaurant. It is located in the center of Estoril. The menu is mainly presented various dishes from fried meat and poultry with herbs and spicy sauce, vegetable salads. The average bill is forty euros. It is worth trying Argentinean and Portuguese wines, the cost of which in this establishment is relatively inexpensive. Here you can also enjoy a Portuguese cocktail made from shrimp, cream and cognac.

· The best fruit market in Portugal is the Mercado de Cascais in Cascais. Various types of fruits, olives and the freshest oysters are sold here.

· On the Praia da Rainha promenade there is a fish auction every day at 17:00. Fresh seafood lots are sold for 1.5 hours, and any nearby restaurant can be used to prepare a dish from them.

The resorts of the Lisbon Riviera are considered the most tranquil. As in any corner of the world, there is no need to neglect the rules of general safety. And then even pickpockets will not meet on your way.

Holidays and festivals of the Lisbon Riviera

Film Festival

Every year in early November, during the international film festival “Lisbon & Estoril Film Festival”, world celebrities visit Estoril. This festival is considered the most secular event.

Not only film screenings are held, but also master classes from leading stars of world cinema, retrospective screenings and demonstrations of Portuguese films. An eminent jury presents awards to the winners.

In 2012, at the Lisbon & Estoril Film Festival, prestigious awards were presented to the Russian film “Winter, Go Away” and the film “Student” by Kazakh director Darezhan Omirbayev.

Tennis tournament “Portugal Open”

The Portuguese Open, an international tennis tournament in May, is an important part of the ATP and WTA Tour qualifying competitions. It takes place in 13 cities around the world and one of them is Estoril.

Music week

The Estoril Music Festival has been held in Estoril every July since 1975.

Initially, the festival had the function of transferring experience from honored musicians to beginners. Subsequently, it took root and turned into one of the brightest musical events.

Various musical genres are heard at the festival. The program includes performances by chamber and symphony orchestras, choral singing and solos. The best dancers and beginners demonstrate the art of dance. Jazz celebrities masterfully perform their works, showing aspiring jazz musicians a master class.

At the festival, it is customary to create performances with the participation of world celebrities and inexperienced musicians. The Estoril Music Festival in 2001 combined International Master Class Courses, a Music Festival and National Competitions under the general name Estoril Music Week.

Crafts fair

In summer, the international fishing fair in Estoril is worth visiting. It has been held on the square near the casino for more than forty years. Craftsmen here sell unique Portuguese souvenirs, and many of them even demonstrate the process of their creation. As part of the fair, cafes and restaurants prepare delicious National dishes and they will smell the visitors. The proximity of the ocean, fresh sea air, national costumes, the sounds of Portuguese folk music or fado and other entertainment await visitors to the fair.

Obstacle jumping competition

In June-July, Cascais becomes the venue for prestigious international equestrian competitions - jumping with obstacles.

The huge racecourse, named after Manuel Possolo, annually hosts participants in one of the eight Global Champions Tours. The best jockeys from around the world come to Cascais to achieve the highest results.

Long equestrian traditions and many riding clubs have allowed the resort to gain fame and become an arena for stellar competitions.

Marine Festival

Festas do Mar has been held annually in Cascais in August since 1992. However, the history of its appearance begins in the middle of the 20th century.

Originating as a professional holiday for fishermen, the modern festival has absorbed all aspects of culture. Musical and gastronomic shows, art exhibitions, costume processions and theatrical performances, and sports competitions take place these days as part of the sea festival.

Local fishermen, and this is almost all city residents, organize master classes on boat control and the intricacies of fishing. It is better to sign up in advance to participate in one or another competition, otherwise you will have to be content with only observations from the outside.

Surfers from local schools teach those interested how to harness the sea, but you can also see professional athletes.

The resort's music venues are filled with groups performing folk and jazz music, as well as pop.

During the festival, pop stars come to Cascais to give concerts. Thus, in 2014, a live concert of the famous Portuguese rock band “Xutos & Kicks” took place.

Gastronomic shows deserve special attention. Here you can not only try national dishes, but also take part in the cooking process.

The festival ends with four days of evening fireworks and a religious procession to the main temple of Nossa Senhora de Gaia with prayers and chants.

Festival of Lights

For three nights in September, the sky of Cascais lights up with light displays as part of the festival of light called Lumina.

Cascais was not chosen as the venue for this festival by chance. It was in this city in 1878 that city lighting was installed for the first time in the country. In addition, the first Portuguese lighthouse was built in the city.

Every year, about half a million guests visit the city over three days. There are photo exhibitions and grandiose light shows. The festival is broadcast on local and international channels.

International surfing competitions

In October on sunny shores The Lisbon Riviera provides ideal conditions for hosting surfing competitions.

Rip Curl Pro Portugal is one of the stages of the ASP World Tour and attracts the attention of the most famous surfers in the world.

Surfing competitions take place on the beaches of Guincho, Carcavelos and Supertubos. The latter is distinguished by the presence of wave phenomena in the form of huge pipes.

Main attractions of the Lisbon Riviera

The largest casino in Europe has brought the lion's share of popularity to Estoril. And the mansions and villas built around it attracted numerous aristocrats to the city.

On a mountain plateau there is a huge race track, which is a training ground for Formula 1.

There are historical and cultural monuments in Estoril. First of all, it is worth visiting Fort Santo Antonio da Cruz Assubida or the citadel. For a long time it played the role of a defensive structure and more than once proved the feasibility of its construction. The citadel reached its contemporaries in the image it received in the 16th century.

An important landmark of Estoril is the Church of St. Anthony of Padua. The first temple was built on this site in the first half of the 16th century, but it was badly damaged by the great earthquake of the mid-18th century and a fire at the beginning of the 20th century.

You can visit the ruins of Roman settlements. They date back to the 1st millennium AD.

An amazing natural attraction is the grotto Boca di Inferno or the Devil's Mouth. It is located between Estoril and Cascais. The waves hit the rocks with force, creating incredible noise. A narrow through cave absorbs sea waves and throws them out with rapid force. This phenomenon acquires a stunning effect during a storm.

Open in Estoril interesting museums: folk instruments, vintage cars and a sea museum.

The main attraction of Cascais is the luxurious Palacio de Conde de Castro Guimaraes with a magnificent museum-library. The book collection numbers more than twenty-five thousand copies, most of which are rare.

Historical monuments are represented by a magnificent example of medieval architecture - the Church of the Assumption Holy Mother of God. It is decorated with azulejos.

The former fortification building now houses a prestigious hotel. The citadel was built in the 17th century to defend the city from pirate attacks.

The local sea museum attracts tourists. Its exhibitions tell the story of fishing and the city. One of the halls displays a huge collection of marine life, birds and animals.

This is the most fashionable resort on the Riviera, which has long been chosen by representatives of the European aristocracy. There are many old, imposing villas and famous hotels here. Aristocrats, statesmen, writers, artists, spies and deposed kings lived here, often maintaining maximum anonymity. The embankment and shady streets of Estoril saw Ian Fleming, Indira Gandhi, Jean Renoir, Kim Philby, Graham Greene, Stefan Zweig. The King of Italy, Umberto, the royal families from Bulgaria and Spain, the Archduke of Hungary, and the King of Romania, who arrived in Portugal in the trunk of a car, found shelter in Estoril. Many of them stayed at the Palacio, the most famous hotel here.

World chess champion Alexander Alekhine lived and died in the now defunct Hotel du Parc in 1946. Once upon a time, this now thriving suburb of Lisbon was a deserted coastline (Estoril = sterile, deserted). But after the construction of the casino, villas of the European nobility began to be built on the shore, and soon the casino itself became the center where the espionage passions of the world's intelligence services were in full swing. It was here that young Ian Fleming conceived his agent 007; the action of the first James Bond book takes place in Estoril. And the famous agent carries an unquenchable love of gambling through all his books.

Lisbon Riviera (Portuguese Riviera) is the famous summer resorts, which are located just 20 km from the center of Lisbon. It was here that the tourism industry of Portugal was born, it was here that the first tourists came to summer rest. Amazing nature and colorful villages attracted the world elite and representatives of famous families here. Climate Portuguese Riviera determined by the proximity of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s warm here in winter, not hot in summer - cooler than in the Algarve resorts (the air is about 25-27°C), it’s windy on the beaches, and ocean water invigorates.

Today, the Lisbon coastline offers golden sandy beaches, gourmet restaurants, fun bars and discos, while outdoor enthusiasts will surely appreciate first-class golf courses and will truly enjoy horse riding, fishing and various sports activities. water sports on the beach.

Main resorts:

Estoril is a fashionable resort with many beaches, ancient churches, an abundance of restaurants and shops. It will delight discerning tourists with its developed resort infrastructure and hotels with excellent service. Here is one of the largest casinos in Europe with an impressive entertainment program, as well as a race track where European-level racing takes place. Active recreation enthusiasts will find a variety of water sports, golf courses, great opportunities for horse riding and fishing, as well as eight water parks at once.

Cascais, located a few kilometers from Estoril, in last years has turned into a real youth center with big amount discos and night clubs. Those who like to enjoy nightlife come here. Tourist centre Cascais includes Old city with a rich historical and architectural ensemble and a lively pedestrian area, numerous cafes and restaurants. Cascais beach stretches all the way to Estoril.

Costa de Caparica is the closest resort to Lisbon on the opposite side of the Tagus River, where Lisbon residents themselves love to relax on weekends. Young people go here for a good wave for body-board classes, others for food local cuisine of fresh fish and a walk along the coast. All summer long, a small train runs along the coast and takes vacationers along the beaches, which stretch for as much as 11 km.

Carcavelos - resort town 15 km from Lisbon. Created here good conditions for beach holidays, windsurfing and golf. An undoubted advantage of the resort is its proximity to famous historical monuments of the country. Therefore, for those who want to combine a vacation on the shore with excursion program, it is better to choose Carcavelos.

30 km west of Lisbon and 8 km north of the coast is the old Moorish city of Sintra - the “pearl” of the Lisbon Riviera and the entire country. Sintra symbol - National Palace with painted halls and conical chimneys. Once there was a royal residence here, now it is a resort for aesthetes. There are other palaces in Sintra: Pena - former summer residence Portuguese kings, Setiais (now an elegant hotel) and Montserrat, famous for its gardens and ponds.

In addition to magnificent palaces and castles, as well as delicious wine and excellent cuisine, sunny Portugal offers tourists luxurious beaches for a comfortable holiday. The best luxury resorts in this country are called the Lisbon Riviera. These beaches stretch along the Atlantic coast from the mouth of the Tagus River to the north. The Lisbon Riviera will be an ideal holiday destination for those who plan to combine a beach holiday and sightseeing of historical and cultural monuments. Best season The months to visit the Riviera are from May to the end of September. The main cities in this part of the country are Estoril, Cascais, Carcavelos and Costa de Caparica, located just 10-15 minutes from the Portuguese capital.

Estoril - the most fashionable

Estoril is considered the most fashionable, modern and developed resort on the Lisbon Riviera. Gambling fans also come here, since Estoril is also known as a major gambling center in Portugal, where one of the most famous European casinos is located. For lovers of active recreation, this resort offers a variety of water spots, horse riding, luxury golf courses, and eight water parks. Among other things, Estoril is called the sunniest city in the whole world, and the Gulf Stream, which washes this coast, provides a warm and mild climate in the resort. The most popular months here are the summer months, when the air temperature rises above +30 degrees Celsius and the water warms up to +21. Sandy beaches are one of the main advantages of the city - they stretch along coastline and move one into another, offering tourists all the necessary conditions for a comfortable and have a nice holiday- changing cabins, fresh water showers, sun loungers and parasols, rental points, as well as cafes, beach bars and restaurants.


Tourists can diversify their beach holiday in this part of the Lisbon Riviera by going to the casino, visiting excellent local fashionable restaurants or playing sports. Families with children should definitely visit the stunning water parks, which will impress and delight not only children, but also adults. Sightseeing lovers will also find entertainment in Estoril. The main monument of these places is the Citadel, which was built to protect against external enemies. The citadel saved this part of the country many times; it was strengthened and rebuilt just as many times, until it turned into a powerful and impregnable stronghold. According to historians, the Citadel is a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture. It will also be interesting to see the Church of St. Anthony, the patron saint of Lisbon, built in the 16th century. In addition, it is worth visiting the amazing Boca de Inferno, which literally means "Devil's Mouth". This gloomy hole in the rock makes the most vivid impression in cloudy weather, especially when looking at the “mouth” from the sea. Museum lovers might be interested in visiting small local museums ( Maritime Museum, Museum of Folk Instruments, Museum of Antique Cars).


The easiest way to get to Estoril, which is located about 15 kilometers from Lisbon, is by train or bus from the capital. The cost of a bus trip is about 3 euros (about 145 rubles). The cost of a flight to Lisbon from Moscow and back is (as of May 2014) about 14,000 - 16,000 rubles per person if you fly with a transfer, and about 30,000 rubles without transfers. The flight time is approximately five and a half hours. As for hotel accommodation, prices in Estoril start from 1,500 rubles per day per room in a hostel or inexpensive hotel up to 2,500 - 4,000 rubles per room in a three- or four-star hotel and 11,000 rubles per room in a luxury five-star hotel.


Cascais is the youngest

The most popular resort on the Lisbon Riviera among young people is Cascais, located a few kilometers from Estoril. This part of the coast has the most discos and nightclubs, and this is where nightlife lovers come.

Like the rest of the Riviera, the climate here is mild, allowing ocean swimming from May to early October. However, most tourists come here in the warmest months - July and August, when the air warms up to +28 degrees Celsius and the ocean - up to +20. In addition to cheerful young people, those tourists who like to relax on the best beaches come to Cascais. Here the sandy strip stretches along the coast for several kilometers. The most popular beach in this part of the Riviera is Guinho, with the highest waves attracting surfers, kiters and other water extreme sports enthusiasts. Connoisseurs of lazy “beaching” should choose the beaches of Riberia or Torre, which are calmer and have excellent infrastructure.


In addition to relaxing on the beach, tourists can visit Cascais interesting monuments antiquity. For example, Palacio de Conde de Castro Guimaraes (open on weekdays from 10-00 to 17-00, on weekends - from 10-00 to 13-00 and from 14-00 to 17-00) - a museum-library where you can see for a unique collection of 25,000 books, including many rare editions. Lovers of natural wonders should definitely see the Grutus do Poço Velho grottoes, which are located in the very center of the city and date back to the ancient Neolithic era. Tourists also like to walk around Parque Palmela between Estoril and Cascais, where open-air concerts often take place. The most convenient way to explore the city's attractions is on foot or by bicycle, since the situation with car parking is quite tense, especially in the city center. There is a separate path for cyclists in Cascais, which stretches almost ten kilometers from the city to the Guinho promenade in Estoril. By the way, you can rent a two-wheeled bicycle completely free of charge - there are rental points in different parts of the city where you just need to show your passport and rent a vehicle.


The most convenient way to get to Cascais from Lisbon, which is 25 kilometers away, is by bus or train. As for accommodation, hotel accommodation here will cost from 800 - 1000 rubles per day for a room in a hostel and 3000 - 4,500 in 3*-4* hotels to 12,000 rubles per day for rooms in luxury hotels such as Grande Real Villa Italia or Hotel Cascais Miragem.

Costa de Caparica - the whitest beach

Costa de Caparica, located not far from Lisbon, is considered the whitest resort on the Lisbon Riviera. That is why residents of the capital often come here on weekends. Young people come here for excellent waves, lovers of gastronomic pleasures for excellent fish dishes, and romantics for a walk along the magnificent coast. Here on the coast stretch best beaches with fine white sand. The most popular are Sereia and Morena, where the best beach bars are located, and the quiet Lagoa de Albufeira beach is ideal for families with children.


Costa de Caparica will be a real paradise for lovers of fish and seafood, because this city is nothing more than an overgrown fishing village. It's worth checking out the cozy Via Caparica restaurant, which has a homely atmosphere and serves delicious and inexpensive dishes. The beach restaurant Praia da Cabana do Pescador is also famous among tourists, where they play live music and offer the best cocktails in the resort. After relaxing on the beach and having some food at a local restaurant, you can go sightseeing. One of them is the Arriba Area - a huge protected area where there is a mass rocks and fossils up to fifteen million years old. Sports lovers can relax by playing golf at the largest golf club in the Lisbon area - Aroeira. However, these courses are designed more for professionals due to the difficult terrain of the fields.



The easiest way to get to Costa de Caparica is from the nearest city, Lisbon. international Airport is located just 15 kilometers away, from where taxis, buses and trains go to Costa de Caparica. The center can be reached by train across the Tagus River to Pragal station, where you can take bus number 196 to Caparica. A more comfortable taxi ride will cost 25 - 30 euros (about 1,220 - 1,462 rubles), but may take longer due to traffic jams. When planning the budget for a trip to this resort, it is worth keeping in mind that accommodation costs from 700 - 1,700 rubles per day per room in a hostel or mini-hotel to 3,000 - 5,000 rubles per room in a more decent and comfortable hotel with all conviniences.

The wineiest - Carcavelos

Carcavelos is distinguished not only by excellent opportunities for beach holidays and active sports, but also by many historical monuments. In addition, this city has long been known not only in Portugal, but also abroad for its delicious wine, which can be tasted in local restaurants and beach bars at an affordable price. Surfers, as well as lovers of other extreme sports, also like to come to this resort. aquatic species sports


The beach of this part of the Lisbon Riviera is the most visited local residents, people come here from all over Lisbon and the surrounding area, so you shouldn’t count on a quiet and secluded holiday. The beaches have an excellently developed infrastructure; in addition, their size provides excellent opportunities for playing football, volleyball, etc. Kiting and windsurfing schools also operate here, offering training in these sports. As for the “excursion”, lovers of attractions will be interested in seeing the Fort of São Julião da Barra at the very beginning of the beach. In the 18th and 19th centuries it was a political prison where followers of liberals, Jesuits and absolutists were imprisoned. The palace of the Marquis de Pombal, which was built in the 18th century in the center of the nearby town of Oeiras, is stunning in its sophistication. It is also worth a trip to the mouth of the Tagus River, where the Bugio lighthouse stands, which is a fort with a central tower. Initially, this lighthouse was built of wood, but later it was rebuilt in stone.



Tourists can take a break from sightseeing in one of the many restaurants in Carcavelos. Here you should definitely try the Carcavelos wine, made from a mixture of ten different grape varieties. The best place to try a succulent barbecue is at the Atlântico restaurant, and amazingly tasty shrimp and octopus in olive oil are served at the Gioconda restaurant. Restaurante A Pastorinha is rightfully considered the best of the coastal establishments, famous for its fish dishes and stunning soulful atmosphere.


The most convenient way to get to Carcavelos is from Lisbon. The train journey from Cais Sodre station will take only ten minutes and will cost no more than two euros (about 97 rubles). A taxi ride may take longer due to traffic jams and will cost up to 30 euros (about 1,462 rubles). As for hotels, the cost of living at this resort starts from 1,000 rubles per room in an inexpensive hotel on the outskirts to 3,000 - 4,500 rubles per night in a 3*-4* hotel with all amenities.

The Lisbon Riviera is a huge strip of fashionable resorts that stretches from the mouth of the Tagus River to the Atlantic coast. A holiday here is a combination of a beach holiday and sightseeing huge amount historical attractions. Thanks to the warm Mediterranean climate, holidays in the Lisbon Riviera are considered one of the best in Europe.
The most popular resorts The Lisbon Riviera are Cascais and Estoril. The beaches of these resorts are also suitable for relaxing family vacation and for active sports recreation, such as diving, snorkeling, surfing. On land, it's a game of golf. The resort of Estoril has the most best fields for golf in the world. The beaches in Cascais and Estoril are amazing. If in Cascais there is only one beach, then in Estoril there is a huge strip of them, one beach smoothly transitions into another. All beaches of Reviera are comfortable, clean, with a good seabed, and equipped with modern equipment necessary for a complete and quality holiday.
A holiday in the Lisbon Riviera is also a very educational holiday. Here you can get acquainted with the sights of the ancient and amazing beautiful city– Cascais with its ancient buildings. In general, here you can choose any one for yourself excursion route, where you will learn everything about the historical side of Portugal, its architecture, cities and their inhabitants, culture and heritage, national cuisine and national drinks. Definitely worth a visit sightseeing tour in Lisbon, by ancient city Sintra and Cape Roca, the city of Fatima, the museum city of Évora, one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Portugal and much more. The Lisbon Riviera is well located so that you can take a variety of excursions every day.
Traveling along the Lisbon Riviera will leave you with a lot of impressions and pleasant memories.

 

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