Get moving: the best running spots in Cascais

For those who enjoy the sea breeze and the sound of waves while running, the Paredão connecting Cascais to São João do Estoril might be the perfect option. With nearby parking and public transport, it's a relatively short route, but it's a wide and pleasant promenade, as proven by the number of runners you’ll find there at any time of day (or night!). In summer, the real enthusiasts take the opportunity to cool off with a swim after their run.

Few roads in the country are as iconic as the Marginal. Stretching from Cascais to Lisbon, passing through Oeiras, it offers many kilometres to run with stunning views of the sea and beaches, as well as the villas and mansions along the coast. And, of course, there are the cars cruising up and down this legendary avenue. Often the setting for professional races, it’s also perfect for a more relaxed morning or sunset run. From Cascais to Carcavelos, without leaving the municipality, it’s roughly nine kilometres.

As long as you don’t mind the wind (you can see it as an extra challenge for your run), Estrada do Guincho is one of the best options for runners. With stunning views of the Sintra mountains, the cliffs, and the ocean, you can push yourself to the iconic Boca do Inferno or even all the way to the Marina if you’ve got enough breath left. There’s a cycle path designed for two-wheelers, but there’s also plenty of space for runners.

If you prefer running amidst nature and greenery, surrounded by an idyllic landscape on a dirt track, then give Quinta do Pisão a try. It’s one of the largest areas within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. You'll easily get lost - in a good way - among the trails of this property, which has so much to explore, especially if you’re running.

If you enjoy running on grassy fields but don’t want a space as vast and remote as Quinta do Pisão, try one of the many public parks and gardens scattered throughout Cascais. With some ups and downs (there aren’t any clearly marked pedestrian paths), some of the best options include Parque Marechal Carmona, Parque Urbano Outeiro de Lima, Parque Urbano Quinta de Rana, Parque Urbano da Quinta da Carreira, Parque Bosque dos Gaios, Parque Urbano da Ribeira dos Mochos, and Parque Urbano do Outeiro dos Cucos. If you’re not familiar with all of them, here’s a great excuse to tick off the ones you haven’t visited yet while clocking up those miles.

Located between the Torre neighbourhood and the village of Areia, Rua das Codornizes in Cascais is a long, straight road that runs past the Quinta da Marinha gym. It features a running track that's perfect for anyone seeking a suitable surface for jogging. The route stretches over two kilometres.

Another great option with a dedicated running track—suitable for cycling too, as the route is bike-friendly—is Avenida Alcabideche. It’s bustling with people of all ages walking or running at various paces throughout the day. The stretch is just over two kilometres long, but you can repeat the route as many times as you like. Think of it as a long outdoor gym: along the way, you’ll find various fitness equipment.

Perpendicular to Avenida Alcabideche (you can even combine the two routes) is Avenida República, which starts from the roundabout at the Condes de Barcelona in Estoril, passes Quinta Patino, and goes all the way to CascaiShopping and the Alcoitão area. This route offers over three kilometres of nearly straight running.