DISCOVER OUTDOOR SPORTS YOU CAN DO ON A DAY IN CASCAIS

Guincho beach is the crown jewel of the Cascais’ surf scene. Known internationally for hosting world surf competitions, Guincho attracts advanced surfers looking for powerful waves and strong winds. But it’s not only for the pros, several surf schools cater to beginners, providing lessons and equipment rental. Windsurfers and kitesurfers also flock here, drawn by the summer breeze that turns the beach into a water sports hub.

Right next to Guincho beach there is Crismina, Abano and Arriba, other beaches that also work for the same purpose. And if you’d like to explore the beaches on the coastline towards Lisbon, you can check Carcavelos, São Pedro do Estoril or Parede for that purpose. Near Sintra, Praia Grande is also a great deal for surfing, just remember to check the tides before.

For a calmer connection with the ocean, paddleboarding in the Guincho beach is a must for any outdoor sports aficionado. Paddleboarding is beginner-friendly, perfect for families, and offers opportunities to explore hidden coves along the coastline. For something different, some instructors even offer paddleboarding yoga sessions.

Cascais is one of the most prestigious sailing destinations in Europe, regularly hosting international regattas like the Dragon Winter Series that bring the world’s top sailors to its waters. In the 1940s, Cascais established the Naval Club of Cascais, a great hub spot for sailing lovers.

The combination of reliable winds, deep waters, and a beautiful coastal backdrop makes it ideal for sailing enthusiasts. Visitors can charter boats, join a sailing class, or take part in a group excursion. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins along the way. Few experiences compare to watching the sun set over the Atlantic from the deck of a sailboat, with Cascais’ marina lights twinkling in the distance.

For those who prefer doing outside sports on land, cycling in Cascais is just as rewarding. The coastal road from Cascais to Guincho offers amazing views of the ocean. For the more adventurous, mountain biking trails wind through the forests and hills of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, offering a mix of technical challenges and scenic beauty. Local bike rental shops and guided tours make it easy to explore, whether you’re after a coastal ride or a challenging mountain descent.

Coastal routes stretch towards Estoril, perfect for a sunrise jog with the sea breeze on your face. For longer adventures, the trails of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park lead you through dunes, pine forests, and even up to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe.

For cycling and running enthusiasts, the “Ciclovia do Guincho” is a 10.8 mi (17.4 km) moderate trail starting at Cascais Marina and ending at Guincho Beach. It’s popular for running, cycling, or rollerblading, with sea views and several points of interest en route.

For hiking trails there are different options in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park:

– The PR 1 CSC (Farm Route) is a 13.4 km medium-dificulty loop starting in Malveira da Serra, crossing diverse landscapes, including the Mula River Dam and Quinta do Pisão.

– The PR 5 CSC (Ribeira das Vinhas Route) is an easy 8 km linear trail suitable for walking, running, and cycling. It links Cascais to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, traversing green spaces and historical landmarks.

– The Western Route (PR 14 CSC) is a challenging 24.6 km circular trail from Abano Fort through the Serra towards Peninha, offering panoramic views and natural diversity. Ideal for experienced hikers.

For those passionate about golf, one of the most prestigious outdoor sports, Cascais is a golfer’s dream. With world-class golf courses set against incredible backdrops. Courses such as Oitavos Dunes, Quinta da Marinha, and Penha Longa are internationally recognized for their quality and design. Playing a round here means enjoying a day surrounded with ocean views, mountains and parkland around you.

Thanks to the mild climate, golf in Cascais is a year-round activity, attracting both amateurs and seasoned players from around the world. If you would like to know more about Golfing in Cascais check our special page.

Cascais also caters to racket sports lovers. Tennis has long been popular here, with several clubs offering courts and coaching. More recently, padel has taken Portugal by storm, and Cascais is no exception. With its fun, social vibe and easier learning curve, padel is a great activity to try with friends or family.

Sometimes the best outdoor sports are the ones that help you slow down. Yoga in Cascais is often practiced outdoors, with sunrise sessions on the beach or in quiet gardens. Sintra’s forests also host retreats where yoga is combined with hiking and meditation. The connection between wellness, nature, and movement makes yoga a beautiful complement to Cascais’ more adrenaline-filled sports.

After a day of outdoor sports, either surfing, sailing or cycling there’s no better reward than returning to comfort and tranquility. Dream Guincho, located between Cascais and Sintra, offers the ideal base for the outdoor sports lovers. Just minutes from Guincho Beach and close to hiking trails, golf courses, and cycling routes, the hotel makes it easy to embrace an active lifestyle while traveling. Its serene gardens, heated pool, and wellness spaces provide the perfect recovery after a long day outdoors.

Here, luxury meets adventure, allowing you to enjoy the best of Cascais’ outdoor sports while unwinding in style.