Don’t tell anyone... Eight secrets of Cascais

t’s not located in the centre of Cascais, but in Parede, a residential area (yet still full of life), nestled between Carcavelos and São Pedro do Estoril. We’re talking about Sociedade Musical União Paredense (SMUP), a 125-year-old venue that has recently become the cultural – and especially musical – hotspot of the whole region. From experimental music to jazz, from rock energy to rap rhythms, SMUP has become a beacon for the independent and alternative music scene in Portugal, frequently hosting renowned international artists. Keep an eye on the programme to see what’s on during your stay in Cascais.

Another big draw to SMUP: the Sociedade restaurant, serving Portuguese cuisine with a contemporary twist, offering plenty of shareable dishes. It’s undoubtedly one of Cascais’ best-kept secrets.

Rua Marquês Pombal, 319, Parede. Mon-Thu 14.30-00.00; Fri-Sat 14.30-01.00. +351 21 457 1325

The Cascais Line is known for its fantastic beaches. The problem is, this isn’t a secret to anyone, and during the warmer months, the sands often become too small for the overwhelming demand. However, there is one – and only one – that even most locals don’t visit. It’s called Praia do Abaninho (not to be confused with its neighbour, Praia do Abano), and it’s located in the Guincho area. It's literally the last beach in Cascais, almost bordering the Sintra mountains.

To get there, head to Bar do Guincho. When you reach the dirt road that leads there, instead of turning left to access the bar and parking lot, continue straight to the end. On your left, you’ll find an old fort; in front, an old restaurant. It’s between these two that you’ll find the long staircase that leads you down. Hidden away, Praia do Abaninho almost disappears when the tide comes in, but it’s much more sheltered from the wind compared to Praia do Abano or Praia do Guincho. A true secret of Cascais.

Hidden in the hills of Malveira da Serra, Moinho Dom Quixote is more than just a restaurant – it’s an experience. This traditional windmill is the perfect retreat for a meal away from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering stunning views over the Atlantic and Praia do Guincho.

Getting there is an adventure – a winding path through the mountains, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at every turn. Crossing the discreet red gates feels like stepping into another world. “This is a place where the presence and grandeur of nature perfectly combine with tables full of friends sharing the flavours of our creative cuisine,” says Anna Claudia Braeutigam, the owner.

On the menu, you’ll find options like burrata focaccia, halloumi vegetarian burger, fresh salmon salad, or pork loin croquettes with spices – perfect for sharing or keeping it all to yourself. Brunch lovers are in for a treat too: there’s a menu served daily from 12.00 to 14.00, with hearty combinations or individual options like croissants and scones. As for drinks, there's plenty to choose from – aperitifs, cocktails, mocktails, and wines – all perfectly matched to the surrounding landscape.

Since the summer of 1986, the road connecting the Guia area to Cascais Marina, passing by Boca do Inferno, has been home to a yellow hot dog van that has become a familiar symbol for locals and regulars alike. It all started after a trip to Venezuela when António Novais and a former partner came up with the idea to start the business. At the time, António was only 19, and the only hot dogs in Portugal were simple – just bread and sausage. With HotDog Cascais, they added cheese, cabbage, fries, and a variety of sauces that turned it into a regional landmark.

The phenomenon began with school kids, who later introduced their parents to the hot dogs. The avenue wasn’t as developed back then – the sidewalk was dirt, with shrubbery and little construction all the way to Guincho. For many years, the hot dog van was only there during the summer season, which led to the opening of a shop at the Riyadh shopping centre, along with stints at the Marina and in Manique. Today, however, it remains exclusively at the original spot, open year-round, as long as the weather is good.

The secret, explains António Novais, lies in the quality of the product and the recipes that have remained almost unchanged, including the "white" and "pink" sauces made with secret ingredients. The bread is a special recipe, and the sausages come from Spain. There’s a simple version, a complete one, a mixed one, and a chilli option for spice lovers, as well as vegetarian options – all to be enjoyed with a unique view of the ocean.

Avenida Rei Humberto II de Itália, Cascais. Tue-Sun 12.00-20.00. +351 964 003 317

Ready for an adventure this holiday? The Guia Climbing School is the best place in Cascais for climbing and abseiling fans – or thrill-seekers in general. Located on the cliffs near the Guia Lighthouse, far from the view of cyclists heading towards Guincho, the specialist association Desnível offers complete and certified training, workshops, or small experiences for those who just want to give it a try, particularly between March and November. There are dozens of climbing routes ranging from 10 to 20 metres. As the options are plentiful, prices vary. To stay up to date with the schedule, the best way is to visit the Desnível website. However, regardless of the activities on offer, you can always contact the association if you have a group of five or more people – the climbing experts are happy to guide enthusiasts through these thrilling cliff adventures, only visible to those passing by boat.

Arribas do Farol da Guia, Cascais

This historic trail, carefully restored by the Cascais Municipal Chamber, was once a vital link between the town and the neighbouring villages of the municipality. Today, it connects the Sintra Mountains to the heart of Cascais, offering a panoramic route of seven kilometres, almost entirely immersed in nature. Perfect for peaceful walks or bike rides, it is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The trail also provides convenient access to Quinta do Pisão, making it the perfect spot for a refreshing break along the way.

R. das Quintas, Cascais.

Opened in 1869, the Teatro Gil Vicente is the oldest theatre in Cascais. Although it is currently closed to the public for regular programming due to necessary renovations, its building and history can – and should! – still be admired.

It opened at a time when the fishing town was preparing to gain national prominence, as the Portuguese royal family began spending their holidays in the region. This factor was crucial for both Cascais and the Teatro Gil Vicente: it attracted audiences and businesses, helping to develop the area. King D. Luís I and various members of the royal family would often attend performances there, which were staged by some of the most renowned national and international actors of the time.

Over time, the Teatro Gil Vicente never lost its relevance. In 1965, it became the home of the Teatro Experimental de Cascais, which remains the most important company in the municipality to this day. Many of the great names in theatre, music, the arts, and literature have graced the stage, and the theatre is now managed by the Cascais Municipality in partnership with the Associação Humanitária dos Bombeiros Voluntários de Cascais, who have had their headquarters there for several decades.

Rua Gomes Freire, 5, Cascais. +351 214 830 522

Nestled in the heart of Quinta dos Ingleses, Carcavelos, just minutes from the train station, you'll find Cabana das Paixões. Since 2000, the space has been run by the Brito family, with Gonçalo, the son, now at the helm. Over the years, the restaurant has been gradually renovated, maintaining its tradition while modernising some aspects. With 150 seats, the concept is simple: serve fresh fish straight from the grill to your table, offering the same quality as the region's top seafood restaurants but at half the price.

The fish, with its signature charcoal aroma, is served with well-seasoned salads and perfectly cooked potatoes. With its traditional atmosphere and unique characteristics, it's not often visited by tourists discovering Cascais but is a beloved spot for locals – many of whom enjoy dining under the shade of the trees, whether in summer or on a fine winter’s day.

Inevitably, the future of Cabana das Paixões is linked to the development project for Quinta dos Ingleses, which is currently on hold. However, the plan is for the restaurant to have a new life within the future premises of the Grupo Sportivo de Carcavelos, which manages the space, should both parties eventually need to leave their (almost) secret location.

Avenida General Eduardo Galhardo, 71, Carcavelos. Tue-Thu and Sun 12.00-15.00; Fri-Sat 12.00-15.00, 19.30-22.00. +351 969 639 473