Boat tour: charming Cascais Coast to Lisbon lighthouse

Starting in the charming town of Cascais, we make our way along the stunning beaches of the Estoril coast, passing the Carcavelos sandy beach and the iconic São Julião da Barra Fort, that marks the entrance to the Tagus freshwater towards the Bugio lighthouse, the gateway to Lisbon. Also noteworthy along the route is the Santo António Fort in São João do Estoril, the holiday home of António Oliveira Salazar, the dictator who ruled the country from 1933 until the 1974 revolution and where he had an accident that precipitated his death. The tour ends with a circumnavigation of the Bugio lighthouse fortification, with a view of the famous red bridge over the Tagus river, with clear similarities to the Alcatraz complex and the Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco as they coincide in time. A palette of sensations and experiences, combining sea and river, picturesque and modern.

1. 1

   Estoril

   Pass by

   Historical viilas, Tamariz Beach and the Casino Gardens can be seen.

2. 2

   Forte de Santo Antonio da Barra

   Pass by

   This fort was also the holiday home of António Oliveira Salazar, the dictator who ruled the country from 1933 until the 1974 revolution and where he had an accident that precipitated his death.

3. 3

   Praia de Carcavelos

   Pass by

   The largest beach of the Cascais coast facing south. Located a mere 15km from Lisbom it is famous among the surfing community specialiy in winter time

4. 4

   Fortaleza de Sao Juliao Da Barra

   Pass by

   Built in a strategic location overlooking the entrance to Barra, the Fortress of São Julião da Barra is one of the most important military constructions in the country. Although it is not possible to pinpoint the time when construction began on the Fortress of São Julião, opinions are divided between the years 1553 and 1556, and the paternity of the design is attributed to Miguel de Arruda, one of the most famous architects of the time. Starting from a small nucleus, this fortification was modified, enlarged and adapted to the new requirements that arose over the years. Like other fortifications, it also served as a military and political prison. The case of General Gomes Freire de Andrade, who was imprisoned in São Julião da Barra and executed in the grounds next to the fortification, was famous. On 22 August 1951, he lost his military function in order to take on new functions of state and host political events.

5. 5

   Farol do Bugio

   20 min

   The tour circumnavigates the Bugio Lighthouse, also known as the São Lourenço Fort, is one of the most iconic landmarks on the Cascais coast. Located at the entrance to the Tagus estuary, this lighthouse was built in the 17th century to protect Lisbon from enemy attacks. It was built on a small sandy island, which represented a major technical challenge at the time. Thousands of wooden stakes were driven into the sandy bottom to create a solid base. This innovative solution allowed for the construction of a robust fort that has withstood the weather and tides for centuries. In addition to its historical and military importance, it is a crucial reference point for navigation, guiding ships safely into Lisbon harbour. It is a true jewel of our maritime heritage and a testimony to the ingenuity of our ancestors.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.