Anyone who’s been around a Greek family at Easter knows that there are many traditions that continue down through generations. The dying of bright red Easter eggs (the egg is the symbol of rebirth and the red color signifying the blood of Christ) is one of them. Embedding some of the bright red Easter eggs into a tasty bread braid, ring, or wreath creating Greek Easter bread is another one.
Greek Easter Bread
We want to share with you a traditional but slightly updated recipe for the beautiful Tsoureki bread, Greek Easter bread that we’ve made into a wreath and adorned with a bright red Easter egg. It’s something we’ll have on our Easter table and if you want to make it yourself, you can too!
Tsoureki Greek Bread Recipe
Ingredients
1 cup butter 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar + 1 teaspoon (for yeast) 5 packets (.25 oz each) yeast 1 cup milk (can use 2%) + 1/4 cup for egg wash 12 cups (approximate) of flour + about 1/2 cup for yeast starter 1 cup lukewarm water 1 teaspoon salt 6 large eggs + 1 egg for egg wash 1 Tablespoon vanilla, anise, orange, lemon or almond flavor extract, as you choose (traditionally, mahlepi, a flavoring made from the cherry pit was used, and you may still use it if you like, but some people don’t like the taste) Sesame seeds (or almond slices if using almond flavoring) to sprinkle on top 1 red-dyed hardboiled egg per bread, or more depending on your decorating preference
Directions
1. Dissolve yeast in 1 cup of lukewarm water, warm to the touch but not too hot or the yeast will die.
2. Stir the yeast around to integrate into the water and add 1 teaspoon of sugar.
3. Add about 1/2 cup of flour to the mixture, enough to make a thin batter, and stir together ( you can use a whisk if it’s too clumpy).
4. Set the yeast mixture aside. While you’re working on the next few steps, the yeast will get bubbly.
Yeast Bubbling
5. In a stand mixer, cream the butter sugar, and salt.
6. When creamy, add the eggs, flavor extract, and milk. Mix on medium speed until well blended.
Making the Dough
7. Into the mixer, start with about 2 cups of flour to avoid making too much of a mess.
8. Next, add the yeast mixture and mix thoroughly.
9. Change your paddle to a dough hook for easier work now, and begin adding flour about a cup at a time until the mixture becomes thick and dough-like. When it pulls away from the sides of the mixing bowl (rather than sticking to it), the dough has been kneaded sufficiently for your bread.
10. Form a large ball with the dough (roll around and pat with your hands) and place the dough into a lightly oiled, very large bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and put in a warm place to allow the dough to rise for 2-4 hours. It will rise faster in a warmer place.
Bread Dough
11. When the dough has at least doubled in size, remove it from the bowl and cut it into pieces, depending on the size of bread you would like to make.
Bread Dough Will Double When Rising
If you want large bread, cut it in half; for medium, cut it into quarters. For smaller bread, you can cut it into 6 pieces. (We’ve done quarters here).
Risen Bread Dough Quartered
12. Then cut each piece into thirds and roll the thirds into long logs of dough of relatively equal size.
Pre-Braiding Dough
13. Pinch the ends of the three pieces together and braid, alternating the three pieces, right over the one you just moved to the center, then left over the next new center and repeat until you have braided the entire length.
14. If you want to make straight braids of bread, just pinch the last ends together. If you want to make wreaths, bring the ends together into a circle and pinch the top ends with the bottom ends to connect both ends and close the circle.
Braiding Bread
15. Now you can put either some flour or even better some parchment paper onto large baking pans and put the bread on them. Leave enough room between each bread so that it will be able to expand without crowding the other bread.
16. Cover the bread with a clean kitchen towel and keep it in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours until they have risen again to about 1.5 times their current size.
17. Mix 1 egg with 1/4 cup milk and blend. The milk will help your crust turn brown.
18. When your bread has risen, remove the kitchen towel and brush each bread’s top and sides with the egg wash.
Egg Washing The Bread
19. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or sliced almonds, as desired. You can also leave the bread without garnish if you prefer. Add the egg decorations. You can place one red egg in the center of a wreath, or snip parts of a wreath with scissors and push 3-6 eggs into the cradles you have made. Be sure that you don’t crack the egg, but you must push it into the bread or it will roll off during baking. For straight braids, you can add one or more eggs by snipping through the center of the braid and likewise making one or more cradles. The bread will expand slightly during baking to hold the egg when it has been properly placed.
Adding The Toppings And Eggs
20. Bake the bread in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 45 minutes, until the bread has expanded slightly and the top is golden brown.
21. Remove from the oven let cool. Once cool, you can wrap the bread in plastic wrap and save it for use on your table or give it to friends as gifts!
Greek Easter Bread
This delicious bread will surely make for a happy Greek Easter or any other time you want a delicious Greek bread to go with your meal.
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THE QUICK BITE: We want to share with you a traditional but slightly updated recipe for the beautiful Tsoureki, Greek Easter bread that we’ve made into a wreath and adorned with a bright red Easter egg. It’s something we’ll have on our Easter table and if you want to make it yourself, you can too!
It’s that time of year when many people start preparing for a season of spiritual rigor and renewal. That means parties and festivals and, of course, lots of amazing annual food treats like…paczki! Paczki pronounce like Poonch-Key, they are spongy, round-filled donuts, richer than regular jelly donuts.
The Lenten season begins with Fat Tuesday followed by Ash Wednesday the next day.
Fresh made paczki at Delightful Pastries.
What Is A Paczki?
Originated in Poland during the Middle Ages. At the time of King Augustus III, when French cooks came to Poland, the dough was made lighter and spongier. According to Dobra Bielinski of Delightful Pastriesin Chicago, the main difference between typical jelly-filled donuts and paczki are that the paczki dough will bounce right back when you take a bite. There is also less filling and more of that lovely dough. To the Polish people, the dough is the central delight while the filling is an accent.
Photo Credit: Cindy Kurman
There are many delicious fillings, from traditional jams like plum and rose hips to fresh strawberries and whipped cream, and even “drunken” versions like those from Delightful Pastries, including Jameson Whiskey with Chocolate Custard, Vodka and Custard with Madagascar Vanilla and Lemon Curd with Moonshine. And our very favorite apricot jelly – with Dobra’s hand-created delicious filling.
This family-owned Chicago bakery has been creating tasty treats for more than 20 years. They use only the finest local ingredients they can find and you immediately taste the difference – no skrimping here.
We think Delightful Pastries makes the best paczki in Chicago. Dobra and her staff have been making over 50,000 each year for Fat Tuesday for Chicagoland fans. Get your order in early so you won’t be disappointed!
Apricot Paczki at Delightful Pastries
Want to learn more about how they’re made just watch this short video of paczki being made at Delightful Pastries below:
Paczki History
In Poland, Paczki Day is generally celebrated on Fat Thursday, the last Thursday before Lent. In the U.S. and other Polish communities, it is often celebrated on Fat Tuesday (Shrove Tuesday) the day before Ash Wednesday begins the Lenten season. The traditional reason for making these rich yeasty dough delights was to use up all the lard, sugar, eggs, and fruit in the household before the Lenten fast when their consumption was forbidden.
More Paczki in Chicago
Another Chicagoland favorite is Reuters Bakery. For over 85 years they have been making bread, cakes, and more on the far west side of Grand Avenue.
Peach Paczki from Reuters Bakery
They have a full selection of the classic paczki but their strawberry and peach are split in half and stuffed with juicy fresh fruit. If you get there early you’ll see the ladies slicing the fresh strawberries by hand. These little pastries are a bit messy and not the traditional paczki but they sure are tasty.
Paczki in Wisconsin
The Rolling Pin, Madison, Wisconsin
In Madison, if you’re looking for paczki your selection may not be as plentiful but you can find some tasty paczki. Try one of our local favorites The Rolling Pin. It’s a European bakery that’s actually in Fitchburg (a small suburb just south of Madison). If you’re a Good Trouble fan you will recognize Fitchburg as the hometown of one of the characters. They have some pretty authentic tasting paczki and in quite a few varieties too.
We also like the paczki from Grebe’s Bakery in West Allis near Milwaukee. We haven’t had the good fortune to get to the bakery in MKE but our local grocer Metcalfe’s saves us the trip and brings lots of Grebe bakery goods in their stores – especially around the holidays and Paczki Day is no exception. You have to get there early before they’re all gone.
Where ever you pick up your plumb delicious paczki enjoy it. You’ll discover why so many people indulge in these sweet treats every year on Fat Tuesday or Fat Thursday.
This year we’ll be scouring the streets of Cascais, Estoril, and Lisbon looking for our Fat Tuesday menu treats. Stay tuned for what we discover here in Portugal.
THE QUICK BITE:Poland’s special filled donuts called paczki have made their way into the hearts and hands of pastry lovers around the world. They have become modern taste treats with delicious dough and memorable fillings – even some boozy ones.
Caldo Verde means “green soup” in Portuguese. It’s a traditional Portuguese food. From Braga up north to the Algarve down south, people will happily enjoy this soulful and iconic sausage kale potato soup. It’s one of those winter comfort food recipes that are good any time of the year.
The Green In Caldo Verde
In Portugal, one sees Portuguese kale or cabbage (“couve” in Portuguese) grown just about everywhere. It’s a green leafy vegetable with thick white stems that can grow quite tall. It’s very similar in color and texture to collard greens and other types of kale, which make good substitutes. The method used by the Portuguese in a recipe for Caldo Verde is to cut the greens into very thin slices or shreds, julienned like little ribbons. They provide color to the soup while making it easier to eat than dealing with larger pieces of thick leaves.
Sausage Makes A Great Accent
This hearty soup is good for easy meals at any time. It has a thickened texture that comes from potatoes and sometimes white beans, blended with the broth. It can easily become one of your favorite dinner recipes. To make this delicious soup spicy and a real tummy warmer, many versions include an accent of Portuguese sausage. Typical Caldo Verde recipes use linguiça sausage, which comes in either mild or picante (hot) types. If you don’t have access to it Polish Kielbasa sausage or Spanish chorizo make fine substitutes. Some folks even use andouille sausage, but you’ll want to like your soup spicy for that one. You can easily make this recipe for Caldo Verde vegetarian by skipping the sausage and using vegetarian bouillon, stock, or just plain water.
This Caldo Verde recipe takes just about an hour in total time. It makes six servings and if you have leftovers you can keep them in the fridge for a few days or put them in the freezer for several weeks. It’s one of those easy winter comfort food recipes that are super convenient to have on hand when you want a quick and hearty meal without waiting. This is why you’ll find Caldo Verde in just about every Portuguese home, restaurant, and even grocery store-prepared food section. Enjoy this little traditional taste of Portuguese food you can easily make at home.
Makes 6 servings. Preparation is about 20 minutes. The cooking time is about 40 minutes.
Traditional Portuguese Caldo Verde
INGREDIENTS
cooked sausage (linguiça, Spanish chorizo, Polish Kielbasa sausage or other you like)
yellow
minced, smashed, or sliced (you can increase or decrease the amount – Portuguese use a lot of garlic but you can add it to your taste – you can even use garlic powder if you prefer, just adjust the amount to your taste
Kosher, Himalayan pink, or table salt to taste
Directions
Warm the olive oil in a large stock pot over medium heat. Add the disks of sausage to the pot and cook until they get a little brown on all the surfaces. When ready, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage, allowing the drippings to stay in the pot, and place sausage disks in a bowl.
Add the diced onions to the pot and stir them around inhttps://foodtravelist.com/moving-to-portugal-6-months-later/ the sausage drippings and olive oil. Season with a little salt and cook until the onions are soft and opaque. Add the garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Place the potatoes in the pot then add the liquid and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to simmer and cook for 15 minutes or until potatoes are almost done, and still slightly resistant when poked with a fork. Remove from the heat and cool for 5 minutes.
Now you have a choice, for a smoother soup, you can mash the potatoes completely or partially. For a soup with more texture and chunks, you can leave them alone. They will continue to cook a little longer in the next step and be very tender.
Drop the greens into the pot with the rest of the soup and bring it up to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to simmer and cook until the greens are bright emerald, and tender, about 5 minutes. Taste and add salt and pepper if desired.
Add the sausage back into the soup and stir to incorporate and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to make sure everything is warm.
Serve with some crusty bread or your favorite crackers. This Caldo Verde also goes nicely with a side salad.
This is one of our favorite winter comfort food recipes ever. Enjoy it with some Portuguese wine and you’ll feel transported.
Did You Know We Moved To Portugal?
To learn more about our move to Portugal, check out some articles about our experiences:
Upon moving to Portugal, we promptly inspected every Portuguese bakery possible. Of course, the first item on our list was the delightful Pastel de Nata, creamy egg tart. But once we began to branch out, we discovered that there are so many other bakery goods. Almost every city or town has its own special treat. As we live in Cascais, a beautiful seaside resort, we tried one of its local specialties, the Areias Portuguese cookies. Our favorites come from the Sacolinha bakery there, home to many delicious pastries, cookies, cakes, and bread.
Sacolinha Areias Cookies
Portuguese Cookie Flavor Bombs
These little flavor bombs are out of this world. Buttery shortbread balls rolled in sugar, flatten out to make little mounds of insane cookie yumminess. The word “areias” means sand, given to the cookie because the texture of the sugary layer feels like sand.
Butter!
We have made these for Christmas, given them to friends, and even just enjoyed them on their own with a cup of coffee or tea. They are absolutely fantastic! All we can say is that we like to make them pretty small because we can eat a few without too much guilt. This is a simple traditional recipe that showcases the butter, so don’t skimp when it comes to the quality of butter you use. Get the good stuff – you won’t regret it.
This recipe makes dough for 30-40 Portuguese cookies depending on size.
INGREDIENTS
140 g (1/2 c + 3 Tbsp) granulated sugar
250 g (1 c + 2 Tbsp) salted butter, room temperature
400 g (2 1/2 c) all-purpose flour
Extra sugar for rolling
DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 190 °C / 350º F.
Beat the butter and sugar until well mixed and the color is pale and creamy.
Add the flour and mix until just combined (do not over-mix).
Roll into small balls about 1/2 Tbsp size (larger or smaller to your taste).
Place about 1 inch apart on baking sheets lined with parchment.
Refrigerate for 45 minutes or more until very stiff so cookies keep their shape.
Put the extra granulated sugar into a small bowl for rolling.
When ready, bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the bottom edges are golden.
Remove cookies from the oven when done and roll to coat thoroughly with extra sugar.
Let cool completely on wire racks.
Note: Every Portuguese bakery does things a little differently. Some like to add a little flavor to the sugar such as a little grated lemon peel or ground cinnamon to spice up these Portuguese cookies. We think they’re amazing as they are, but you can get creative however you like.
If you’re a Francophile, you’ve probably already explored many amazing areas in France. We’ve covered a lot of territories ourselves. The excitement of Paris, the beautiful scenery of Alsace, delicious wines of the Loire valley, history and Calvados in Normandy, the canals of Burgundy, and much, much more.
One town we hadn’t visited was Marciac, France, a lovely little town in the Gers department of southwestern France that has a population of about 1,350 during most of the year. It’s about a two-hour drive from Toulouse and 45 minutes from Auch. At one special time of year, however, that tiny population is supplemented by some 250,000 visitors, many of whom come strictly to experience one of the best French music festivals – Jazz In Marciac, a glorious tradition that is coming up on 40 years celebrating that most American of musical genres.
Michel Camino Band at the Marciac Jazz Festival
American Music Comes to France
French affinity for jazz may have started with the World Wars, but it has been elevated to an incredible passion. The Jazz In Marciac festival has grown from a tiny group of devotees enjoying performances in a makeshift venue to nearly 3 weeks of musical festivities that brings jazz lovers from everywhere to revel in the best of the best in various venues in and around town, including a massive open tented area that seats some 6,000 people and a beautiful auditorium for 500.
Marciac Mayor Jean Louis Gilhaumon
Marciac jazz rise is due in no small part to jazz lover Jean-Louis Gilhaumon, who back when he was principal of the local high school started the now world-famous festival. His love of jazz started when he heard Ella Fitzgerald perform in the nearby city of Toulouse. He began the Marciac Jazz Festival as his way to share his love for American jazz which he calls “the music of freedom”.
He invited American trumpeter Bill Coleman who was living nearby to play, and Coleman brought his friend Guy LaFitte, a french sax player and jazz composer. A great time was had by all and they decided that it should be done every year, using a former furniture factory as the concert site.
Lucky Peterson & Wynton Marsalis at the Marciac Jazz Festival
Jazz Stars in Marciac
Today, Gilhaumon is mayor of Marciac and the festival has been hosting every jazz legend you can imagine, from Dizzie Gillespie, B.B. King and Stan Getz, Diane Reeves, Chick Corea to Sonny Rollins, Lionel Hampton, Oscar Peterson, Diana Krall, and Herbie Hancock. Ahmad Jamal who generally stopped performing live couldn’t resist the call of Marciac and recently played there. The list is like a who’s who of the genre. And, the up and comers are there too. Some of them are studying jazz in a program created to train new generations of jazz lovers, some of whom may become artists in their own right.
Wynton Marsalas at Magical Marciac Jazz Fest
Wynton Marsalis Jazz In Marciac Supporter
But the list of Jazz In Marciac luminaries wouldn’t be complete without one of its greatest ambassadors, trumpeter Wynton Marsalis. A serious and devoted musician, jazz runs through Marsalis’ veins. And it should. His father, Ellis Marsalis, counted among his students Harry Connick Jr. and other greats as well as his talented sons Branford, Wynton, Delfayeo, and Jason.
Wynton Marsalis
On our visit, we were treated to time with Wynton to talk about his background and interests, his craft, the French passion for jazz and the festival. He was candid and warm, seriously committed to jazz and the Franco-American musical relationship. We also learned that, not unexpectedly, his time growing up in New Orleans has made gumbo his go-to dish!
The festival itself occurs in several places. The whole town center seems to vibrate with music and activity. We were treated to concerts in the main tent, where we heard amazing performances by saxophonist David Sanchez, pianist Michel Camilo, organist Lucky Peterson and, of course, the incredible trumpet works of Wynton Marsalis.
Lots of History
While you’re visiting you won’t want to miss the Museum of the Territoires du Jazz. Even if you’re not a jazz aficionado you will be impressed by the number of mementos that are housed in this museum. You’ll wear headphones as you tour the museum listening to Dixieland, blues, big band, classical and modern jazz. This is truly a wonderfully curated look at American music.
Enjoying some libations and music at the Marciac Jazz Festival
Tasty Local Bites
With all that jazz, you’re likely to get hungry. Fortunately for all concerned, the food in Marciac is just as delicious as in every other part of France that we’ve chomped our way through. There are plenty of open-air spots where you can drink wine, get a meal or a snack and enjoy the ambiance thoroughly.
The lovely courtyard a J’Go Restaurant in Marciac.
J’GO Restaurant
We want to share with you an amazing meal that we had that is worth pointing out so when you go to visit you won’t miss it. J’GO Restaurant in Marciac has several different dining areas, including one in a lovely garden that epitomized the open, casual elegance and incredible culinary delights waiting to be discovered. You’ll sit outside in a patio-like setting, surrounded by a garden of herbs and edibles like squash.
Slicing Pork Noir at J’Go Restaurant
All of the ingredients come from local producers. Their images and stories are placed on the walls and on little postcards around the restaurant. You feel as though you’re sitting with them, tasting their hard work. The images of the person who grew the tomato, farmed the pork, planted the rice, or made the goat cheese that is on your plate surround the courtyard. You can taste the care and the freshness in every bite.
For our lunch, we started with a refreshing zucchini soup sprinkled with crispy Jambon Noir de Bigorre. A side note – this is the French equivalent of Jamón Ibérico de Bellota. In fact, at a recent international competition the French beat out the Spanish in their own tastiest cured ham game with this baby. The soup, needless to say, was delicious, especially when we accompanied it with a slice of fresh-baked rustic French bread.
Pineapple Tomato J’Go Restaurant
A Memorable Tomato
We then experienced a tomato revelation. They served a “pineapple heirloom tomato”. We had a single slice of tomato, topped with a mild sweet-sour mango vinaigrette. Topped with fresh herbs from the garden. These tasty local tomatoes could have made a meal all by themselves, startling but true.
Boneless Pork Noir Chop at J’Go Restaurant
The main course was a juicy boneless pork chop. Made from the same porc noir (black pig) as used in the jambon. Expertly prepared and seasoned, the chop was served with a very mild green pepper strewn across the top. It was perfection.
Dessert was a dazzlingly simple fresh fruit sorbet served with a sprig of mint pricked into the top. Each of our courses was accompanied by an appropriate wine. Starting with a local specialty called Percher Mignon, made from white Roussillon peaches. To lovely dry white and tasty red for the pork. A small strong coffee was the perfect finish for us, java lovers.
J’GO in Marciac is one of a group of J’GO locations that include Toulouse and Paris. The chefs and owners spread themselves around. Of course, when Jazz In Marciac hits full stride, you can imagine that it’s all hands on deck in Marciac. Chef de cuisine Régis Daudignan, who spends most of his time in the Paris restaurants. Often is in town during the Jazz in Marciac Festival.
Marciac Jazz Festival
If you go off the beaten path away from some of the larger French destinations and you’re are a jazz lover – or even if you’re not – you’re going to find music and magical meals in Marciac that are worth exploring. Now’s the perfect time to start thinking about Marciac Jazz Festival 2022.
To learn more about Marciac a visit and to get the latest information on the Marciac Jazz Festival visit their site at JazzInMarciac.co.
We’ve talked about how much we love the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Cascais, Portugal. The incredible dining, beautiful scenery, cultural exhibits, and luxurious shopping. But there’s another side to Cascais that we love equally as much. It’s the wild side of Cascais in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park where Mother Nature rules.
Nature lovers can experience the best of Cascais through a program designed to explore in harmony with nature. Cascais Ambiente now offers the Rota do Occidente, or The Western Route. This new addition is a pedestrian program that is designed to promote “biohappiness,” a way to be happy while respecting nature. We love how it offers a way to see the natural beauty of Cascais walking or biking, and experience some amazing activities interspersed.
Rota Do Occidente
The Western Route connects the coastline and the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. This spectacular area is prized by locals and visitors alike. There are beautiful views, historical monuments, and Nature Interpretation Centers throughout. The rich variety makes this a totally engrossing and enriching experience. Bird-watching, tree-climbing, and personal interactions with nature are part of the experience. The route is designed to enable guests to enjoy nature while not leaving a negative impact on it.
Cascais Ambiente has carefully crafted a three-day/two-night program that offers visitors a chance to enjoy the spectacular scenery, taste the flavors of Portugal, engage in learning opportunities with knowledgeable guides, and experience overnight glamping along some of the most interesting terrain in Portugal.
Hiking Along The Western Coast
Our visit included trekking through the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park with some of the most gorgeous scenery we’ve encountered yet in Portugal. We thrilled at seeing hidden golden sand beaches at the edge of rocky cliffs. Our senses went wild for the windswept hills covered with foliage and flowers. The trails were clearly marked and easy to follow. What was difficult for us was trying not to stop every few minutes. Each bit of walking gave us a new perspective and another jaw-dropping view. We did our best not to dawdle too much, but it was a challenge, that’s for sure. The scenery is breathtaking and ever-changing. You can take as many photos as you like. And we took plenty.
After our scenic tour on foot, we had a chance to try some of the special offerings that come as part of the package. There are five different options and visitors can choose three to include in their program. We love the fact that visitors can tailor their program to suit their own interests. Each experience has its own unique pleasures so we think there are enough options to make a completely satisfying visit for anyone.
Exploring the Dunes
We had the chance to take a long walk on a well-kept boardwalk through the Dune of Cresmina, an area marked by moving sand dunes that shift and change. Some of the dunes move slowly over time and others look different from day to day. We enjoyed meeting a Biologist, who accompanied us on the walk and pointed out various plants and flowers. We learned which plants were native to the area and which species had come from somewhere else.
Duna da Cresmina Cascais Portugal
It was fun to look out over the landscape and see it literally shift before our eyes and learn about how fires and weather events impact the local environment. At the top of the walk was a lookout point where we could take in another stunning view and get a snack or drink if we wanted.
Quinta do Pisão
We visited Quinta do Pisão, a unique nature park environment that houses an ecosystem incorporating sustainable farming practices, preservation, and education. A human presence at the park can be traced back to some 5000 years ago. Archaeologists discovered a cave that contained the bones as well as utensils thought to date back to the bronze and iron ages.
Quinta do Pisao Cascais Portugal
A garden produces wonderful fruits and vegetables that are for sale at the farm store. Segway and bicycle rentals are available. There are also interpretive tours that help deepen understanding and appreciation of this remarkable place and the natural environment of this special area. The farm is a great place for Portuguese families as well as visitors like us to come and learn about habitat management practices, biodiversity, nature preservation, and eco-stewardship. We experienced some of the fantastic learning activities for ourselves.
Meeting A Beekeeper
Our day included the fun and informative Meeting a Beekeeper workshop where our guide showed us the inner workings of bee society and the role each type of bee has in the hive. We saw how honey is made and processed and learned about the importance of bees to the balance of nature. We saw firsthand how the bees create the honeycomb structure of the hive and the care that goes into ensuring the hives are safe and thriving. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and answered all of our questions.
Learning about bees at Quinta do Pisao
We learned about the domain of the bees and why honey that is made by the bees using different plant sources tastes different as well. We also had a chance to taste some of the pure honey produced by the bees at the hives we saw around us and it was delicious. This was a great way to learn more about how important bees are to the development of a healthy and diverse landscape – as well as producing a naturally wonderful sweet treat.
Glamping In Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
Though we did not spend the night, we did get a chance to see the glamping setup that is included in the full two-night program. We also enjoyed the hospitality of a hosted meal. The full program is all-inclusive of food, and we can definitely say that guests will not go hungry. The Portuguese passion for glorious food and drink does not skip even rustic visits to the great outdoors.
Glamping in Cascais Portugal
The complete program includes two overnight stays in two different locations so that visitors can enjoy the distinctive scenery of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park each night. The roomy glamping tent we saw had many amenities and creature comforts. We can imagine taking in a beautiful starry night, reading a favorite book, and finally snuggling down in a warm and comfortable tent while still being able to feel part of nature.
We sampled a gorgeous buffet that gave us an idea of what the food in the full program would be like. Delicious sandwiches, fresh fruits, cakes, veggies, and even roasted chestnuts filled a large table. Many of the fresh flavors we enjoyed came from the vegetable garden and local producers. Options for vegetarians as well as those following a gluten-free diet were available so those with allergies or special health considerations will be well cared for in the dining department. We also enjoyed water, coffee, tea, and fresh juices to complement our culinary experience.
Meeting A Ranger
There are birds, animals, insects, and all kinds of creatures that call the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park area their home. One of our favorite parts of our visit to the Quinta do Pisão was meeting a ranger. We learned about all the other animals that are in the park, including sheep, horses, and our favorite, donkeys. There are over 20 donkeys now living in the Quinta do Pisão. We also learned that Portuguese donkeys are strong, stout, and quite woolly with their long, soft hair. We had the privilege of not only seeing the donkeys all together in a group (including a few youngsters) but we also got a chance to walk with two of them along a trail. It was a highlight of our visit.
Diana with donkey friend at Quinta do Pisao
Choices To Suit Every Taste
The Rota De Occidente or Western Route program offered by Ambiente Cascais has plenty of options to suit every taste. The pedestrian route itself begins at the Eco-cabana at the entrance to beautiful Marechal Carmona Park and encompasses some 50 kilometers and consists of five different stages:
Ecocabana – Cresmina Dune (10 Km)
Dune of Cresmina – Quinta do Pisão (10 Km)
Quinta do Pisão – Peninha (10km)
Peninha – Duna da Cresmina (10km)
Cresmina Dune – Ecocabana (10 km)
Guests can also choose from a variety of activities at various times during the program, including Mountain Bike, Electric Bike, Donkey Ride, Horseback Riding with a Guide.
Nature At Its Best
There is so much to see and do in the developed areas of Cascais. It would be easy not to go beyond the beautiful hotels, spectacular beaches, glamorous shops, and elegant restaurants. But a visit to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park including the Rota de Occidente is well worth including. It provides more than enough reasons to add a little off-roading to any trip in the area. With top-notch hospitality, remarkable scenery, ample opportunities for learning something new, and, of course, the presence of donkeys, we think a deep dive into the wild side of Cascais is an adventure well worth taking.
Travel around the world certainly looks different these days. Sometimes we brave the process of showing vaccination certificates, taking rapid tests, and wearing surgical masks. But if we want to experience the joy of travel freely, virtual tours online provide a great alternative. Some amazing resources are available online. We want to share a few of them with you to explore.
1. Girl Travel Tours
Looking for a new place to explore or a chance to revisit one of your favorites? Girl Travel Tours has virtual city tours for many wonderful destinations to satisfy just about every travel itch. We recently took a virtual tour of Nazareth and Bethlehem that was amazing. The guides do the world tours for free but if you like what you experience you can provide a tip, which we think makes it a win-win for everyone. The company would love to give you a live tour around the world, and if virtual travel is any example, they likely do a great job on the ground as well. New virtual tours are offered on Facebook through a sign-up and there are lots of recorded tours already available on the website. There is a great library of virtual tours that include big destinations like Paris and Rome as well as unique experiences such as Ecuador & Galapagos, an African Safari, or a ride on the Trans Siberian Express.
American Cemetery Normandy France
2. France.FR
Francophiles will be delirious with the massive library of virtual tours available on the France.FR Facebook page. Whatever your interest in France, there’s bound to be a tour video that will let you explore your passion. These are recordings of live experiences, most of which are an hour or so long. So you won’t be getting just a hop, skip, and jump but a chance to really see what the area you’re looking at is like. World War II buffs can see the Caen Memorial and learn more about war history in Normandy. Art lovers can explore Van Gogh’s Arles. And food lovers can take a tour of Paris. Food Travelist favorite Darley Newman hosts an inside look at Tour De France and other great French experiences. We look forward to getting back to France as soon as possible. In the meantime, we can enjoy virtual visits through these great videos.
Lisbon Holiday Lights
3. Lisbon With Pats
It’s no secret that we’re absolutely crazy in love with our new home base in Portugal. And one of the people who helped us satisfy our desire to explore every nook and cranny of the capital city Lisbon is Pats Madeira who offers in-person and live virtual tours through Lisbon With Pats. We took a virtual Christmas walking tour with a group of friends when we couldn’t leave our home in Wisconsin. And, once we made it to Portugal we took a live Christmas tour with her to see and taste everything we had been dreaming about in the meantime. Pats focuses on customized experiences, so if there’s something you want to see, you can be sure she’ll accommodate your every desire. For her live virtual tours, Pats charges a single reasonable rate for up to 10 people in your group. We had fun directing Pats to show us every beautiful pastry that caught our eye. She is a true professional who is both super knowledgeable and wickedly fun.
4. Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History
The Smithsonian is a national treasure. When visiting in person, it’s often difficult to navigate through the embarrassment of riches that the many different museums offer. One of our very favorites is the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Learning about the dinosaurs, rain forests, fossils, and even our own bodies is a fascinating pursuit that can cause us to linger so long that we don’t make it anywhere else. So the ability to explore by taking a self-directed virtual tour is perfect for those like us who want to take their time. You can go through every room or just those that interest you and explore the exhibits however you choose. If you want to get some behind-the-scenes information while you’re exploring the museum offers narrated virtual tours as well.
Again, we have to mention our friend Darley Newman who also does Livestream events at the Smithsonian check out her site for the latest so you don’t miss a thing!
5. Beeyonder
If you’re someone who likes to be on the go, you might be interested in Beeyonder, which offers live public and private tours for virtual travel around the world. You can join in a tour that is already planned or create a special one for you and your friends. Live virtual walking tour of Singapore’s City Center, Ireland Christmas Traditions Virtual Special, and Walking tour in the Jungle Cahuita National Park in Costa Rica are just a few examples. Prices vary and there is a subscription offering that provides savings if you want to continue with your armchair travels. There are also a number of perspectives you can choose from for your tours such as live from the street, art, cooking, or history and culture. Many languages are also available. The experiences are all live and interactive so you can engage with your guide while exploring at the same time.
Yosemite
6. Virtual Yosemite
We love the National Park system and one of our favorite parks is Yosemite. There are so many special places to explore and enjoy the beauty of nature. Virtualyosemite.org brings the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite right to you wherever you are. You just click on the part of the park you want to visit and you’re transported in an instant. From Tuolumne Meadows to Hetch Hetchy and the Half Dome Diving Board, you’ll get the incredible views that make Yosemite so special. Each location has several viewpoints that you can click on to get a full perspective of the area. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the glories of this natural treasure without having to pace yourself while navigating the terrain.
Acropolis in Athens Greece
7. Clio Muse World Tours
Visiting the Acropolis in Greece was one of the most exciting tours of our traveling life. So whether you’ve been able to go there in person or have it on your bucket list for the future, there’s no reason to skip seeing it for free through the Acropolis: Free Virtual Experience offered by Clio Muse Tours. The tour includes several of the stops you would not want to miss on any visit, including the Theatre of Dionysus, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and, of course, the Parthenon. This is a go-on-your-own experience but there is audio guidance provided in English. Stories are combined with street and satellite views making this a full sensory experience of one of human history’s most interesting and important sites.
8. The Louvre
Some of the most wonderful experiences you can have as a virtual traveller come from art museums virtual tours. Many art museums have adopted some form of the virtual visit so that art lovers can see creative treasures while staying safe at home. One of the most impressive and important museums is the Louvre in Paris. Home to such painting masterpieces as Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, and sculptures as Venus De Milo, the Louvre offers a unique opportunity to see some of the greatest artworks ever created. For this reason, Louvre visits feel like world tours, even the virtual ones. Art museum virtual tours at the Louvre include walks through important galleries and explorations of exhibits. There is also a Louvre at home offering that includes events, podcasts, and even a virtual reality Mona Lisa experience.
With things being what they are today, it can seem like world tours are out of reach for many of us who are used to regularly traveling. But through the wonders of technology, we can actually take world tours of many of the most interesting and exciting places on Earth right in our own homes. Though nothing can take the place of actually being where the action is, we hope these examples give you ideas about how you can still travel around the world without leaving home. We’ll continue to travel and explore food and cultures around the world in whatever way we can. We look forward to sharing more of our discoveries with you along the way.
Cookies are a universal taste treat. Many countries around the world have their own unique cookies – Italian Biscotti, Korean Yakgwa, Mexican Wedding Cakes, Balinese Jaja Lempog, Swedish Rosenmunnar, Greek Kourabiethes, Scottish Shortbread, French Macarons, Chinese almond cookies, Dutch Stroopwafels, and more than we can count! Cookies are that sweet, delicious finger food that’s perfect to finish off a meal or just to have as a snack.
So we’re sharing one of our all-time favorite recipes, yummy Chocolate Crinkles. These sweet little chewy-crisp chocolatey delights are so easy to make and just as easy to devour. You’ll want to have them around for whenever the cookie monster strikes!
This recipe makes about 6 dozen cookies, plenty for eating, sharing, and freezing some for later!
Easy Chocolate Crinkles Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (like Hershey, Nestle)
2 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup confectioners’ (powdered) sugar
4 eggs
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup safflower or canola oil
Directions
1. Mix cocoa, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil in a medium-sized bowl. Add eggs one at a time and blend until each is well combined.
2. Stir in the vanilla and blend until all are thoroughly combined.
3. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add the dry ingredients mixture into the cocoa mixture and blend until completely mixed into a dough. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours until very firm.
5. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or foil (shiny side up).
6. Take the dough in one-inch mounds and roll it into balls. You can use a meat/melon ball scoop of the appropriate size to start, but you’ll want to roll into a complete round ball with your fingers.
7. Pour confectioners’ (powdered) sugar onto a large plate and roll each ball over the sugar until thoroughly coated and place balls about 1 inch apart onto the baking sheets. If you don’t have a large oven, put the leftover dough back into the refrigerator while making each set of cookies so it doesn’t get too soft.
8. Bake at 350 for 11-13 minutes, until cookies flatten out and the “crinkles” appear showing the chocolate cookie through the confectioners’ sugar coating.
9. Let cool on the baking sheet for a minute or two to set, then transfer the cookies onto wire racks and let cool.
Enjoy!
THE QUICK BITE:Cookies are a favorite treat whether for dessert, snack, or just because. Our super-easy Chocolate Crinkles recipe is a delicious way to get a little sweetness into any day. If you’re looking for more cookies check out our matcha tea cookies recipe.
It’s that time again. Time for us to gather around the table with family and friends and eat the tasty treats that go along with our Thanksgiving dinner. I have to confess that as someone who likes cooking for large groups, I love preparing all kinds of “once a year” (or maybe two or three times a year for some of the more versatile dishes) dishes that everyone looks forward to around this time. It’s a time to be thankful for all the wonderful people in my life, their health, and happiness, that the entire process of cooking a meal for them to celebrate how grateful we all are is pure joy for me. Creating my easy Thanksgiving recipes for all to enjoy, is my way of saying, I love you!
Easy Thanksgiving Recipes
For those who like a traditional feast, undoubtedly the centerpiece of the feast is the turkey and stuffing. Well, I’ve made many kinds of turkey, from butter-herb roasted to marmalade glazed, with wine or with lemon, and a whole lot of stuffing that’s been served with those birds. But the one that always gets raves and I come back to time and again is a deliciously different twist on tradition, Diana’s Awesome Maple Roast Turkey recipe with Maple Pan Gravy and Savory Apple Stuffing. It’s an easy traditional turkey recipe. It’s even better than it sounds, and you’ll want to make plenty for leftovers too. That’s what we’ll be enjoying at my house this year and, if you like, here are the recipes so you can enjoy it at your house too.
Diana’s Awesome Maple Roast Turkey
Ingredients: 1 – 12 to 14-pound turkey (of course, you can adjust everything to suit the size of your bird) 3 Tablespoons of butter or margarine 2 Tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 – 13 1/4 ounce can low sodium chicken broth salt and fresh ground pepper to taste.
Maple Pan Gravy, recipe below Directions:
1. Heat oven to 325 degrees F. Remove giblets and neck from turkey; set aside for other use if you choose. Rinse turkey under cold running water; drain well and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels. Set aside and make Savory Apple Stuffing, recipe below. 2. Sprinkle salt and pepper inside neck and body cavities of turkey. Stuff cavities lightly with Savory Apple Stuffing. Close with skewers and string. Tie legs together; tuck wings underbody. Place turkey, breast side up on a rack in an open roasting pan. 3. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt margarine or butter; stir in maple syrup. Brush syrup/butter mixture over turkey and spread evenly. 4. Roast turkey for 1 hour. Baste with all of the chicken broth. Roast 2 1/2 hours longer, basting pan with juices every 30 minutes until breast skin is crisp and golden and juices run clear when the thigh is pierced with a fork. A meat thermometer inserted into the meaty part of the thigh should register 180 to 185 degrees F.
Maple Pan Gravy
Ingredients: Pan drippings reserved from Maple Roast Turkey 1 to 2 13 1/4 ounce cans low sodium chicken broth
2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour1/4 cup maple syrup
3 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions: 1. Scrape turkey roasting pan to loosen brown bits; tilt the pan and pour off drippings into a large clear measuring cup. Skim off 2 Tablespoons of fat from drippings and place in 2-quart saucepan. Skim off and discard the remaining fat. Add enough chicken broth to drippings to make 3 cups and set aside.
2. Set saucepan with fat over medium heat. Stir in flour slowly until blended and whisk until smooth. Cook and stir 1 minute. Add reserved drippings mixture gradually, stirring. Bring to boil, stirring occasionally. cook 1 minute stirring occasionally until thickened.
3. Remove from heat; stir in maple syrup, vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste.
Savory Apple Stuffing
This easy Thanksgiving stuffing recipe receives raves no matter when we serve it. You can add various dried fruits and/or nuts as you like (we especially like the addition of golden raisins, dried cranberries, chestnuts, pine nuts, and dried apricots). You could easily add sausage if you’d like to. Here’s the basic recipe that you can add to your heart’s content. Ingredients: 1//2 cup margarine or butter medium onions, chopped
2 cups 4 large ribs celery, chopped
2 cups 2 medium sweet red cooking apples such as Rome Beauty, cored and chopped
2 cups 2 medium tart green cooking apples, such as Granny Smith, cored and chopped
2 cups 2 8 oz. packages of herb-flavored stuffing mix
1 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon salt1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 1/2 cups apple cider
Directions:
1. In 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, melt margarine; add onions, celery, and apples; cook 4 to5 minutes, stirring frequently until softened.
2. Remove from heat; stir in stuffing mix, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add cider, stirring just to moisten.
Makes about 14 cups. I hope these easy Thanksgiving dishes bring as much joy to you as they have to me over the years. Enjoy and have a wonderful Thanksgiving – from my kitchen to yours.
If you’re looking for a winning recipe for leftover turkey be sure to check out my turkey tetrazzini post it’s one of Sue’s favorites.
Cascais Portugal is one of the most beautiful seaside towns in the world. Along the gorgeous coastline about 30 minutes west of Lisbon makes it perfect for a change of pace when visiting the urban center. Whether you want to lay on a beach, shop till you drop, dive into art, history, culture, or ice cream, Cascais offers plenty to keep you busy. Here’s a look at our 9 reasons Cascais in Portugal is tops on our list.
Is Cascais Worth Visiting?
Before we taunt you with all the reasons you should visit Cascais you might be wondering if you should even venture down the coast of Portugal to Cascais at all. This article should help you decide that yes, yes you should. We are absolutely biased because we live here but don’t think that we are sugar coating anything. Cascais is lovely – in fact, every person, every single one that we’ve encouraged to come and spend some time here ends up falling in love with this seaside village.
1. Weather In Cascais
If you like the temperatures to hang around in the 60s and 70s with bright warming sun and cool blowing breezes, you’ll love Cascais. We know it can get rainy in the winter. That’s better than Midwestern snow! The interesting thing is that the sun feels bright and warmer than expected if you are walking around in it. And if it feels too toasty, just step in the shade for an instant drop that cools you down. Even so, there’s nothing like a Cascais summer day. While bigger cities like Lisbon and areas further south like the Algarve get way too hot for our liking, Cascais has a mild-moderate temperature that feels pretty darn good almost all of the time.
One thing to know is that there’s a lot of wind in Cascais. Situated between the mountains and the sea, the gusts can be quite strong. The wind in the hilly parts above the beach are known to be the “pai do vento,” or father of the wind because of its blustery nature. We personally find it refreshing and the winds vary greatly based on the other weather activity. But if you like to sail, parasail, or do any sport enhanced by a good breeze, then Cascais will make your activity a dream.
2. Beaches In Cascais
Portugal has a lot of coastline. More than 500 miles on the mainland alone. And there are many different views about which beaches are the prettiest. But there is certainly no doubt that Cascais beaches are up near the top. Praia da Ribeira, Praia da Rainha, and Praia da Conceição are the town’s own beaches.
Praia da Ribeira is the closest to the center of town. It’s an easy walk from the train station to the sand. It’s a popular beach with plenty of action. You can see the boats in the marina or sun on the sand. For something a little more secluded, Praia da Rainha is perfect. It’s a small beach tucked away by the harbor. Praia da Conceição is another popular option with lots of amenities. Enjoy beach lounges, umbrellas, places to get a bite or a drink, and lots of water activities. Cascais beaches are beautiful whether you want to go down to the beach, dip your toes in the water and lie on the sand or just watch the waves from a comfortable bench nearby.
3. Cascais Restaurants
It’s no secret that the food in Portugal is absolutely amazing. Cascais is doubly blessed when it comes to dining options. Close to the sea, there is an abundance of fresh fish and seafood available. Fresh fish, shrimp, octopus, clams, and more are often prepared simply and with favorite local preparations. Cascais restaurants also serve some hyper-local specialties of the area like the santiaguiños, tiny slipper lobsters found only in the region. Some restaurants like Marisco na Praça Mercado let you see what items they have fresh that day and mix and match your perfect meal. Codfish is a national favorite served a thousand different ways while octopus is often enjoyed “à lagreiro” style with garlic, olive oil, and potatoes or in a salad.
Carne de porco a Alentejana
Vegetarians and meat-eaters will find plenty to love in Cascais too. Pork is abundant in forms from sausages to cutlets to one of our favorite dishes, carne de porco à Alentejana. Though associated with the south, it’s available everywhere, highly addictive, and we just can’t get enough. Cascais restaurants run the gamut. Tascas are those small local spots that we like the most. One of our favorites is Flecha Azul. If you crave other flavors, don’t worry. Sushi lovers will find lots of options in Cascais. We found great pizza at Pizzeria Il Siciliano and delicious burgers at Bullguer. And for a spectacular vegetarian meal, we loved the food, fresh juices, and outdoor dining at Cafe Galeria House of Wonders. Whatever you crave, you won’t go hungry in Cascais.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention a few sweet stops in Cascais. There are plenty of places to get the ever-present pastel de nata and all the other Portuguese sweets. When in Cascais be sure to try the “nozes” or “nuts” at Bijou de Cascais which feature sugar and egg yolks like many Portuguese pastries but it has a glazed covering that is crunchy and topped with a nut and sand-like melt-in-your-mouth cookies “areias” at Sacolinha.
4. Shopping In Cascais
Local boutiques are abundant in Cascais Portugal. You’ll find little shops with knick-knacks and touristy souvenirs alongside shops with Portuguese-made clothing, tableware, soaps, bath products, and of course, many items made from famous Portuguese cork. But there are also some big-name shops strewn around the central district, especially when looking for jewelry and high-ticket items. Cascais even has a see-through Porsche studio made of glass right next to the marina!
Shopping Malls
For those who like to jump into the thick of it with a huge mall and tons of stores, CascaiShopping is the ticket. Technically up the hill in the adjoining town of Alcabideche, it’s worth a trip if shopping is your jam. There is a combination of local stores and global brands covering just about everything. Jewelry, clothing, housewares, toys, books, tech stuff, and more are all there. And, to make sure you don’t perish from hunger, don’t forget to eat. Two different food court areas serve local and international flavors.
If like us, you enjoy exploring grocery stores, you might find yourself getting lost in the huge Continente hypermarket, which could provide hours of shopping pleasure all on its own. Cascais Villa is a smaller shopping center is right in the middle of town. An interesting feature of this mall is its unique wavelike appearance from the outside. It makes an easy stop to pick something up on your way to or from the train.
Mercado Da Vila
If you love farmers’ markets and flea markets, then you will love the Mercado da Vila. There are permanent storefronts housing florists, butchers, bakeries, and more. And there are some restaurants where you can get a lovely bite such as Local Cascais with great fresh food. But on Saturdays, the farmers market comes and all the freshest fruits, vegetables, eggs, bread, and other local delights will fill your senses. They also have a huge fish market. Locals and visitors alike ooh and ahh over all the goodies in the market. We usually bring two bags with us because no matter how little we think we want, we end up buying more.
Mercada da Vila Cascais
On Wednesdays, there’s a special treat. The flea market happens on the back lot of the Mercado da Vila grounds. There you’ll find all kinds of non-food items. Clothing, kitchen tools, electronics, bedding, music, garden supplies, and lots of other items are there for the haggling. Although prices are usually so good, you probably won’t need to haggle if you don’t want to. We purchased a king-sized sheet for 5 Euros and a summer blanket for 15. At that price, we didn’t even think to ask for a discount!
Cascais FoodLab
One other thing we just wanted to mention is the Cascais FoodLab which is located in the Mercado da Vila. This spot is a treasure trove of culinary creativity. We were privileged to visit for a Carcavelos wine-tasting experience. Not only did we learn about this amazing fortified wine (one of Thomas Jefferson’s favorites) but we also had the chance to taste Portuguese cheeses, charcuterie, bread, honey, jams, and more.
The FoodLab is a sort of think tank, educational institution, gastronomy experience, and historical preservation project all rolled into one. You can check out what events may be happening during your visit. Past events have included workshops around macarons, photography and photo editing, risotto, and traditional pastries.
Cascais Santa Maria Harbor
5. Santa Marta Lighthouse And Museum
If you want to see some interesting historical attractions, Cascais also has some wonderful options. We loved visiting the Farol de Santa Marta, a lighthouse and museum that provides a unique addition to many scenic photos of Cascais. The lighthouse’s distinctive white and blue stripes make it a visible symbol on the rocky part of the Cascais coast. Originally built in 1868 on the site of a historic fort, the lighthouse was renovated in 2006 into a museum. Inside, you can see some amazing lenses, tools, and equipment. These were important to the use and maintenance of the navigation and warning towers. If you’re feeling like a view, you can walk up the spiral staircase nearly 120 feet in the tower and look out at the top for an incredible view of Cascais Portugal.
Casa de Guia Cascais
6. Casa Da Guia
One of our favorite things about Cascais Portugal is that it has so many great places to explore. Casa Da Guia Cascais is a unique attraction that combines a historic mansion, beautiful views, restaurants and snack shops, entertainment, and boutique stores all in one area. There are plenty of options for dining with a view. Try the upscale Grelhas for a glass of wine and petiscos, like the tasty pica-pau, which gets its name from the woodpecker because you just keep picking at the tasty pieces of meat and veggies. Enjoy the lovely view all the while.
Sushi at Lovit Cascais
For a tasty and eclectic menu, visit LOVit. Sushi Cascais style is very popular here and elsewhere. They also have great burgers, salads, sandwiches, and more. The casual setting is perfect for relaxing in the open air. Our friends that live nearby eat there every week. There are plenty of spots to just sit and chill, enjoy some music, and a cocktail or snack. You can try a few of them and see the area from different views.
The historic mansion itself was restored and its bright mustard color serves as an icon of the area. You can explore some lovely boutique stores that are housed in the building including our favorite, the Gourmet Emporium with some specialty food products and an exotic tea collection. Other shops in and around the casa sell clothing, accessories, artworks, and designer jewelry. And if you’re sweet tooth is aching, don’t forget to stop for a delicious gelato at Fabio Lupi before you head home for a nap.
7. Parque Marechal Carmona
We love a good park and Cascais has plenty of green space all around. But the one that is our favorite is Parque Marechal Carmona. Not only does it have all the green space and play areas you would expect, but it has much, much more. A large pond is home to many ducks, geese, and turtles. There’s a little cafe at the back of it as well. And not only do we love the watery pond area but all around it is our favorite residents of the park – all kinds of birds. Yes, we avid bird watchers managed to find a bird haven in the middle of Cascais Portugal.
Peacock Parque Marechal Carmona
Birds Of Different Feathers
Chickens and roosters have made it their home, evidenced by this summer’s large number of chicks running around with their moms and dads. Don’t worry, there were some ducklings and goslings too. Parrots fly around in the trees sometimes. And pigeons mingle with ducks and chickens as though they are cousins at a family picnic. Well, perhaps they are. But beyond those small birds, we have to admit that like many others, we were smitten by the peacocks that also call the park their home. Not only do they have beautiful plumes, but they have bossy behavior that lets you know you are on their turf and they may or may not let you come back. One fine fellow gave us the full view of his fantastic tail feathers, of which he is obviously quite proud!
arque Marechal Carmona
Diverse Beauty
Beyond the birds, the park has extensive gardens with flowers and plants, trees, and lawns. There are sculptures and children’s play areas. Don’t be surprised to find a small group doing yoga or tai chi on one of the quiet lawn areas or sunbathers out on the larger lawns. We participate in a monthly lunch gathering with other ladies who live in the area. There are picnic tables perfectly set up for a small group to enjoy a little time together surrounded by trees. The idea that we can have a peaceful walk through a lovely forest within minutes of the ocean is one of our favorite things about lovely Cascais Portugal.
8. Cascais Hotels
Cascais has lots of variety when it comes to places to stay. There are lots of short-term rentals available as well as hotels and resorts. The short-term rental market is quite active so much will depend upon where you want to be located and what your budget is. There are plenty of rentals located in the historic city center, some near the beaches, and others further up the coast. As a small town, most of Cascais is well within reach whether by walking by taxi or ridesharing. The one thing to be aware of is that, like most of the country, Cascais in Portugal has flat areas and hilly areas. If you want to be a little off the beaten path, going just 10 minutes up a hill will give you much more of a local neighborhood feel and a lower price.
Pool view at the Grande Real Villa Italia Hotel and Spa Cascais
Grande Real Itália Hotel & Spa
Hotels also have a wide range. We had the chance to stay at one of the most beautiful luxury resorts in Cascais, the gorgeous Grande Real Itália Hotel & Spa. It’s one of those places that makes you feel decadently indulgent, in a totally good way. The rooms and suites are spacious, clean, and elegant. We had a room with a beautiful balcony that overlooked the pool. Beyond the pool was the Atlantic coastline. Yeah, that’s what Cascais Portugal is like. View after view.
The hotel has all the amenities you could want including a restaurant and a gorgeous bar and lounge where you can get nibbles and drinks. There’s also a spa that offers treatments that capitalize on the therapeutic values of the sea. While its plum location faces the shore, it’s actually backed up against a neighborhood so you can walk beside the sea or scope out where the locals go on the inside. It’s also located very close to one of our favorite attractions in Cascais Portugal which is next.
Is It Better To Stay in Lisbon or Cascais?
As always, that depends. If you like the hustle and bustle of city life you’ll love staying in Lisbon and enjoying every moment. If you’re the type of traveler who likes to visit the city but get away and relax in a less crowded and slower-paced town, Cascais will be right up your alley. They both have their strengths and challenges. They are both on the water and full of activities, historic sites, and plenty of good food.
9. Boca Do Inferno
We love natural attractions and one of our favorite spots in Cascais to see the power of nature is Boca do Inferno. While the name literally means Mouth of Hell, we think it’s more like a little bit of heaven to watch the waves weave through the remnants of a cave that was carved out of the rocks rising out of the sea. One can only imagine the constant crashing ocean activity that created this unique natural archway over the centuries. Various viewing plateaus make it easy to see and the continual movement of the surf in and around the rocky cavern is mesmerizing. One time when were visiting, we saw a brave fisherman actually perched on the rocks above the Boca do Inferno braving the elements to get a prize catch. It was a stunning and unforgettable sight that reminded us again of the adventurous spirit the Portuguese people have, even today.
Boca de Inferno Cascais
Around the Area
There is a small permanent marketplace of local merchants and several eateries nearby. Mar do Inferno gets consistently high marks for its fresh fish, but it’s a bit of a splurge for dinner. If you’re on a budget stop by for a glass of wine, some tasty snacks, and the spectacular view.
Walking path along the ocean Cascais
If you love to experience a destination on foot you can walk a great distance along the coast from beyond the Boca do Inferno into the center of Cascais. If you want to keep walking, you can head over to the Paredão, a 3km long pedestrian promenade from Cascais to São João do Estoril along the shore. There are cafés and stops along the way if you feel the need to replenish.
Octopus salad at Forteleza Cascais
If you’re up for an even longer walk or bike ride you can start in Cascais and go all the way to Guincho Beach. It’s about a six-mile trek from downtown Cascais. The one-starred Michelin restaurant Fortaleza do Guincho is located there. If you’re looking for something very special, treat yourself to lunch or sunset snacks at The Spot Fortaleza Guincho for the same great food and service in a more casual setting. We highly recommend the octopus salad or prego sandwich.
Is Cascais Portugal Expensive?
Like most resort towns Cascais has its pricey restaurants and fancy five-star hotels. They are all lovely and you will absolutely get your money’s worth and be spoiled by the gracious staff and magnificent views. If you do your homework, visit in the shoulder season, and eat off the main strip you will find the cost of food and goods to be very similar to the rest of Portugal. Eat at the tascas run by the locals, order the plate of the day and you’ll save yourself a lot of cash and yet still have a full meal and a full stomach.
Picnics in the park or on the beach make for another great way to enjoy the tastes of Cascais and save some money. Stop in the Mercada do Vila and pick fresh fruit, veggies, wine, and bread and you’ll be all set.
PRO TIP
For a great trip from Cascais to Lisbon or vice-versa with towns in between, you can take the Linha de Cascais train all the way along the coast. Stops include wonderful other towns to visit such as Estoril with its casino famous for inspiring James Bond’s Casino Royale and Carcavelos with its delicious fortified wine and long sandy beach.
Linha de Cascais
After moving to Portugal, and starting and settling into a new life, we know there are many reasons to visit Cascais in Portugal. From fabulous food to gorgeous views, we have found much to love in this amazing seaside town. But we thought we’d share just a few of our favorites to spark your interest. Once you experience this wonderful place yourself, you’re certain to find many more reasons of your own.
We would like to thank VisitCascais for assisting us as we learn more about this place we now call home. We were hosted at Grande Real Villa Italia Hotel and Spa and the Carcavelos Wine Tasting. All suggestions and endorsements are solely personal. We only recommend what we personally like and experience.
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