A James Bond Inspired Destination – Palacio Estoril
One of the nicest things about traveling is that it gives you a little “me” time and puts that little thing called life right back in perspective. When invited to this Portuguese “James Bond” inspired press tip, off course I was excited as I’ve have not yet taken the opportunity to explore this beautiful country. That said, read about my Cascais adventure below. I will be back even if it’s for the Portuguese language where I noticed that the Portuguese always appreciate the effort of a few key words, such as “bom dia”, “obrigado” and “por favor”. They go a long way.
The very first look and feel of what my destination is going to look like starts in the plane while listening to the fly tap stewardess talking about the safety protocol. And I find myself not entirely listening yet unintentionally scanning her features, hair and bone structure and naturally the make-up. It is fresh and dewy looking with small eyebrows that emphasize her face and lots of love for fierce black eyeliner. When it comes to clothing Portugal is a fairly casual destination, though I would call it smart casual. Night can be windy and chilly so you might want to bring a lightweight jacket in the summer and be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures in the winter and spring.
The Portuguese Riviera offers all kind of attractions you will surely like. From the leisure of Golf at for example the Sheraton***** where I pleasurably stayed and where you can overlook the sea, to spa’s, sun, sea and absolutely Fabelish gastronomy.
Cascais had a breathtaking coastline. It’s flanked on two sides by the Atlantic Ocean and it’s located 25km from Lisbon and the international airport, (where you can outdo yourself with souvenirs at the airport as they sell more brands you can carry) stretching in a retangle all the way up to Guincho Beach, just facing Cabo da Roca, also known as the most western point in Europe.
When you hit the Cascais bay, make sure to visit the lighthouse museum: “Farol de Santa Marta” and the Boca de Inferno viewpoint. If you have the opportunity hop on a speedboat for a speed up tour around the premises like I did HERE Then head to the “Mar de Inferno” for a fresh as ever lunch for which I am sure you will L.O.V.E.
Have a martini at the Hotel Palácio at Estoril ***** like James Bond’s Ian Fleming did at this hotel. From what I understood his famous spy stories were born and came to life from this exact location. After all these martini’s – shaken, not stirred – you’’ll be in desperate need of a healthy dinner. “O Percador” lays in an old tavern and offers amazingly fresh fish. A go see!
One of my favourite stops was this little sea side village called Azenhas Do Mar. Only 30KM from Lisbon on the rocks of the Atlantic Ocean sits a perfect 007 hideaway where the time seems to stand still. When thinking of hiding in plain sight, it takes me to a place where I had the privilege to lunch at a former Colares wine cellar called “Adega das Azenhas“. A traditional family like décor where they serve Portuguese traditional delicacies.
There are also those who come for the fascinating stories of kings and spies and for all the glamour, culture and entertainment to be found. From the stunning views along the coast to wandering through the pretty towns, Portugal is so full of charm and surprise you will never get tired of exploring this small but fascinating country.
I had such a marvelous time during this trip, I am sure to be back on another occasion. If Portugal was not on your bucket list, you might want to put it there and do make sure to visit Cascais. You may thank me later.
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