5 Best Sights in Sintra, the Estoril Coast, and the Setúbal Peninsula, Portugal

The most visited attraction in the area around Cascais is the forbiddingly named Mouth of Hell, one of several natural grottoes in the rugged coastline. Located just 2 km (1.2 miles) west of town, it is best appreciated at high tide or in stormy weather, when the waves crash high onto the surrounding cliffs. You can walk along the fenced paths to the viewing platforms above the grotto and peer into the abyss. A path leads down to secluded spots on the rocks below, where fishermen cast their lines. The bleakly beautiful spot is where English occultist and magician Aleister Crowley faked his own suicide in 1930, shocking onlookers when he appeared at a Berlin art gallery three weeks later. A white plaque at the site marks the intriguing occasion, together with the text of the "suicide note" he left behind.

Portugal’s best known contemporary artist, Paula Rego died in 2022 but her legacy lives on in her incredible body of thought-provoking work, much of which is showcased at this modern building in the Cascais Museum Quarter. Designed by the renowned architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, the eye-catching pyramid-like building houses a permanent display of many of Rego’s works, along with visiting exhibitions from other celebrated modern artists.

For an understanding of the maritime history of Cascais, head to this modern museum. Here, the town's role as a fishing village is traced through model boats and fishing gear, period clothing, old photographs, and exhibits of curious sea creatures.

Visitors to this grand mansion dating back more than a century can get a peek into how local aristocracy once lived while admiring an impressive display of 18th- and 19th-century paintings, ceramics, and furnishings. The canary-yellow building makes a dramatic backdrop to the small beach next door, which is open to the public and attracts groups of swimmers and sunbathers on hot days.

Take respite from the crowds at this relaxing park next to the palacial Museu dos Condes. There's a tree-shaded spots for picnickers plus a large lawn for sunbathers (expect strolling ducks and peacocks for company). There's also a playground and a pleasant café.