Once just a small picturesque fishing village, Cascais
(pronounced 'Kesh-kaysh'), 19 miles (30km) west of Lisbon, has
exploded into one of the most bustling, sophisticated resorts on
the Portuguese Riviera. It retains its laid-back atmosphere,
however, and the local fishermen still ply their trade and auction
their catch on the main square. The town now hosts a plethora of
elegant shops, bars and eateries set around colourful cobblestone
walkways, to cater for the holidaymakers, and besides the lovely
local beaches there are some sightseeing opportunities. The
16th-century church has carved and gilded woodwork and some famous
paintings; the Cascais Amunicipal Museum housed in a palace has
some interesting exhibits and illuminated manuscripts; the Sea
Museum contains everything maritime from model boats to fishermen's
boots; and the 16th-century Fort of Cascais offers a beautiful view
and an open-air artillery museum. About two miles (3km) out of town
is a strange rock formation known as the Mouth of Hell, which is
worth a look en route to the lovely beach of Guincho, which is a
favourite with surfers.
