The best plans to escape the heat in Cascais

Caves are one of nature’s coolest wonders – quite literally. It all comes down to basic science: once you reach a certain depth, the temperature stays constant, and both rock and soil act as natural thermal insulators. That’s why exploring a cave is such a smart idea in the summer – especially since many are closed during the colder seasons. Right in the centre of Cascais, the Grutas do Poço Velho offer a fascinating underground escape. These prehistoric caves, thought to have been used as burial chambers in the Stone Age, are now open for self-guided visits throughout the summer on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, from 10.00 to 13.00. Got a group? You can also book a guided tour. Either way, it’s a cool (and very literal) way to spend a hot morning.

If it’s just too hot for the beach or pool, it might be time to take your swims and soaks indoors – and there’s no better place to do it than in the soothing spa circuits dotted around Cascais. Some of the best spots to unwind in cool, calm comfort include the spas at Grande Real Villa Itália, EVOLUTION Cascais-Estoril, Palácio Estoril Hotel, Hotel Cascais Miragem, Onyria Quinta da Marinha Hotel, Pestana Cidadela Cascais, Sheraton Cascais Resort, and Mujo Movement & Wellness.

Think indoor pools, ice fountains, multisensory showers, and a long list of massages and treatments designed to melt your stress (not you). The seasons don’t really matter in here – though you might want to skip the sauna and steam room in the height of summer.

Whether it’s summer or winter, rain or shine, escaping to Cascais’ museums is always a solid plan. The famous Museum District (Bairro dos Museus) is packed with air-conditioned buildings brimming with art and fascinating artefacts. You’ll find gems like Casa das Histórias Paula Rego, the Museu do Mar Rei D. Carlos, Centro Cultural de Cascais, Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães, and the Farol Museu de Santa Marta, among many others.

Bonus: entry is free on the first Sunday of every month. And if you live in the municipality, you get 50% off all other days. Perfect for a cool, cultural day out!

Indoor fun? Sounds like the perfect recommendation for a guide like this. Sure, besides bowling, you can dive into laser tag, paintball, bazooka ball, bubble football, or archery here – but when the weather alert hits red, sticking to the bowling lanes is definitely the safest bet. For a cooler, more pink-themed option, check out Playprincess – the go-to spot for birthday parties for little fashionistas.

High-intensity physical activity might not be ideal on scorching hot days, but when all the action takes place indoors and away from the blazing sun, it's a solid go – a perfect way for kids to burn off energy without getting burnt. At Anima Park, all it takes is a pair of non-slip socks to step into a colourful world of fun. Indoor tree-top adventures, climbing walls, ziplines, tubing slides, trampolines and arcade games are just some of the attractions little ones can dive into. Think that’s all? Not quite –there’s also the Brinquedão, a multi-level play structure packed with obstacles, a maze and slides, plus a mini city made just for kids.

There’s nothing more crucial than staying hydrated on a sweltering day. And if you're going to beat the heat, you might as well do it in style. Thankfully, Cascais has no shortage of bars ready to serve up icy relief – whether you're after a cooling cocktail or just something tall and fizzy.

Try Malacopa, Blue Bar, Taberna Clandestina, Compañia de Bebidas, or the rooftop vibes of The Upper Deck at the Evolution Cascais-Estoril hotel. When in doubt, ask for extra ice – and maybe another round.

It’s a proven fact: one of the best ways to beat the heat is by seeking out shady spots. And if the thought of being cooped up indoors isn’t exactly appealing, there’s always nature – cooler temperatures, fresh air, and leafy green canopies that do all the work of an air con, minus the hum. In Cascais, there are plenty of breezy escapes where you can stay cool without four walls closing in. Head to Quinta do Pisão or the Rio Mula Dam, both tucked into the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, where temperatures tend to dip a few degrees. If you’re after something closer to town, try Parque Marechal Carmona or Parque de Palmela – ideal for strolls, shady picnics, and chilling with an icy drink in hand.

You might have to brave a bit of sun on your way through, but think of it as a small price to pay for a stroll around the many galleries that make up the Art District at the Cidadela de Cascais. Most of your time will be spent soaking up art in blissfully cool spaces — from bold screen prints at This Must Be The Place, to striking sculptures at the Rogério Timóteo Art Gallery & Workshop, vibrant paintings at Saltão Gallery, contemporary jewellery at MAM Jewellery Stories, mixed-media pieces at Gizela N and Cláudia Afonso Studio & Gallery, and hand-crafted treasures at Allarts Gallery.

When you’ve had your cultural fill, reward yourself with something cold: Santini Corner awaits just outside the fortress gates. This charming spot serves the iconic Santini ice cream — in cones, cups, cocktails or sangrias. Yes, you read that right: gelato sangria.

Another logical option – and one that many make the most of – at this time of year is simply enjoying the outdoors after the sun goes down. Some go for a seafront stroll, others opt for a long, lazy drink on a terrace, but we suggest something with a bit more adventure: night hikes organised around the Cascais area. On July 10, for instance, Hike Land is leading a six-kilometre trek along the coastal trails of Guincho, Abano and the Cresmina Dune. Later in the month, on July 28, Green Trekker will guide a night walk through Ribeira da Vinha, a historic trail that once linked the villages surrounding Cascais. Bring comfy shoes, a torch and a sense of wonder — the rest is taken care of.

Beyond museums and art galleries, there are plenty of other cultural hideouts in Cascais that offer the perfect escape from the scorching heat. When it’s too hot for beaches or pools, how about diving into a good book instead – the kind of escape that whisks you away to endless worlds and parallel realities, all from the comfort of a cool, quiet space? Check out the indie bookshops around town like Indie, not a Bookshop, Déjà Lu, RG Livreiros, and Galileu. For younger readers (or the young at heart), head to the Children’s and Youth Library in Parque Marechal Carmona, or browse the shelves at the São Domingos de Rana Municipal Library and the Cascais Municipal Library – Casa da Horta da Quinta de Santa Clara.