Most visitors are content with the trio of fair beaches here, and simply lying on one of the lovely, sandy beaches is a fine way to spend the day. Fortunately, the waters of Cascais are no longer polluted as they were in the late '90s, so swimming is now also possible.
The best golf course is Oitavos Dunes Quinta da Marinha (tel. 21/486-06-00; www.quintadamarinha-oitavosgolfe.pt), 7km (4 1/2 miles) west of Cascais. The course here evokes links in Scotland. Holes open onto distant views of the Atlantic and the Sintra mountain range. Designed by golf architect Arthur Hills, the course lies in the Sintra-Cascais National Park. Greens fees are 88€ in winter, rising to 150€ in summer. Hours are daily 8am to 8pm. An equestrian center with some 230 horses is on-site in addition to various indoor and outdoor riding arenas. A 30-minute ride goes for 20€; 1 hour costs 30€.
Another good golf course is Clube de Golfe da Marinha, Quinta da Marinha (tel. 21/486-01-80 or 21/486-01-00), which was carved out of sprawling woodlands of umbrella pines. The master himself, Robert Trent Jones, Sr., designed the 18-hole course, the showcase of an upscale residential resort complex that stretches over some 131 hectares (324 acres). Windblown dunes and sea-lashed outcroppings are part of the backdrop along its 6,120m (20,074 ft.). The 18th hole, facing a deep rocky gorge, is the most challenging. Greens fees from Monday to Sunday are 90€ or 45€ after 3:30pm.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
