Next stop: São Pedro de Estoril. Besides the beach, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained - from surfing to restaurants and even art.
São Pedro do Estoril, one of the stops on the Cascais train line, is nestled between Parede and São João —but much more than that, it’s a must-visit in the municipality. Though not the largest or most renowned, there’s no shortage of things to do. The beach warrants a visit, whether in the summertime for sunbathing and diving amidst the rocks, or during winter for leisurely strolls or afternoons spent gazing at the sea from a seafront terrace. Here, you can also discover the rich local biodiversity, explore a historic bridge, or catch a glimpse of the famous “Castelinho de Nossa Senhora de Fátima,” which has gained fame for being haunted. A haven for surf enthusiasts and petanque aficionados alike, São Pedro do Estoril is a must-visit on any gastronomic itinerary along the coastline. From fresh fish to traditional Portuguese delicacies, tantalising Mexican fare, artisanal desserts, or brunch with a view of the sea, culinary options abound. Explore the best of Pedro do Estoril in 19 stops.
An extensive beach, clear water, a jetty to stroll around and, at low tide, several rocks leaving puddles visible for the older ones to soak in and the younger ones to explore with the shrimp boats – yes, it's worth taking them. It is protected by a high rock, so it is sheltered from the wind.
HOW TO GET THERE: It is a 15-minute walk from São Pedro de Estoril train station. If you prefer to take a car, stop at the Bafureira car park, which quickly fills up on the weekends.
A few doors from Paco Bigotes is its sister establishment, Compañia de Bebidas, owned by the same proprietors. While the Mexican inspiration remains, this spot is all about cocktails. Primarily a bar, it also serves up some snacks like ribs or chicken wings, in case hunger pains begin. Many of the cocktails are coffee-based. Try, for instance, the El Temazcal—whiskey and amaretto with grapefruit and salted caramel syrup, all served with the due accompaniments: smoke and a bell jar. You could also give the Copal a try, made with tequila infused with mint, raspberry, pink peppercorn, and rosé brut sparkling wine.
The brand created by sisters Rita and Madalena Rugeroni in 2022 is completely dedicated to classic dungarees for kids (and adults too!), featuring colourful and fun patterns, crafted from quality materials promising a lifetime of wear. While the brand primarily operates an online store, its showroom in São Pedro do Estoril opens its doors to the public from time to time, showcasing pieces from various collections up close and in colour—plenty of colour.
São Pedro do Estoril beach is one of the most popular surfing spots on the Cascais coast. It’s no coincidence that one of the oldest surf schools in the area—indeed, in the country—operates here! Founded in 1998, Surfin S Pedro offers group and private lessons for anyone interested in the sport, young or old. During holidays, there are always surf camps to keep the kids entertained amidst the ebb and flow of the waves. Find out more on the school’s website. Alternatively, you can sign up with the Art of Surf School, operating from the beachside restaurant Mar d’Sal.
Fauna & Flora—renowned for its brunch and breakfast dishes—expanded beyond the capital, following its success in Madragoa and Anjos districts in Lisbon, to set up shop in São Pedro do Estoril in 2021. The menu boasts pancakes, bowls, and smoothies that have earned the brand fame in Lisbon. However, there’s something unique here that you won’t find elsewhere: a view of the sea. To usher in 2024, the restaurant has prepared a series of new additions to the Estoril menu. Now you can savour the raclette toasted sandwich, salmon and noodles bowl, Caesar salad, Farm Burger (featuring matured beef burger with mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, pickled cucumbers, cheddar, watercress, and red onion, in a brioche bun), and the Bosque Verde Burger (vegetable protein burger, vegan mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, pickled cucumbers, vegan cheddar, watercress, and red onion, in a brioche bun).Fauna & Flora—renowned for its brunch and breakfast dishes—expanded beyond the capital, following its success in Madragoa and Anjos districts in Lisbon, to set up shop in São Pedro do Estoril in 2021. The menu boasts pancakes, bowls, and smoothies that have earned the brand fame in Lisbon. However, there’s something unique here that you won’t find elsewhere: a view of the sea. To usher in 2024, the restaurant has prepared a series of new additions to the Estoril menu. Now you can savour the raclette toasted sandwich, salmon and noodles bowl, Caesar salad, Farm Burger (featuring matured beef burger with mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, pickled cucumbers, cheddar, watercress, and red onion, in a brioche bun), and the Bosque Verde Burger (vegetable protein burger, vegan mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, pickled cucumbers, vegan cheddar, watercress, and red onion, in a brioche bun).
As the country’s first “zero energy building”, it hosts an exhibition showcasing the living beings and minerals that comprise this region, from starfish to various fish, to anemones. Visitors can also discover historical information about the São Pedro do Estoril caves, carved into the slope by people who inhabited the area five thousand years ago.
One of the most authentic snacks restaurants along the coast. Serving spicy poultry sausage fritters, breaded brie cheese, octopus salad, Pica-Pau sauteed beef cubes with egg and, for those still hungry, a hearty steak. There are also more traditional meals on a plate, such as Madeiran-style skewers or grilled spare ribs with bean rice and chips. Whether indoors or outdoors, don’t miss the Boteco-style grilled octopus with mashed potatoes, sautéed pak choi, and roasted peppers; or Zé Manel’s codfish with mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and turnip greens. A bucket of ice-cold beers usually lands on the table, replenished as the meal progresses.
Cinnamon rolls, banana bread, American cookies, brownies, brigadeiro chocolate cakes, croissants, tarts, or slices of cake. Poppy Pâtisserie is the go-to place for original artisanal pastry products conceived by Rebeca Catalão. There’s always something new on the menu, so it’s never exactly the same.
The project started online in 2020 before moving to its current space in April 2023, which was previously a green grocer’s. “I took a food production course, but I never actually worked in that field”, explains Rebeca. “I thought it was too costly. At the same time, I’ve always loved pastries and used to bake cakes for friends. So, it was a natural process, and the brand kept growing”. The space isn’t very large, but there’s a cosy outdoor terrace, complete with heaters and blankets for colder days.
This is one of the most famous mansions along the coast and over the years has gained a reputation for being haunted. Built in 1927 in the neo-Gothic architectural style, its medieval features and years of abandonment led many to associate it with ghosts. Behind the spine-chilling tales could be the story of a girl who lived in a house near the little castle and who allegedly accidentally fell from the cliffs. Legend has it that the girl’s parents offered the property in her memory to an institution supporting the blind. However, some say that this girl was actually the daughter of the chalet’s first owners, and she still wanders the property with a doll in hand. At least, that’s what those who claim to have seen her swear, like the socialite José Castelo Branco, who considered buying the house in 1983.
It’s unlikely you’ll come face-to-face with any supernatural phenomena as you pass by on the Marginal avenue, but it’s worth peeking at the building, one of São Pedro do Estoril’s most iconic, which was sold in 2016 for three million euros. It’s also known as Dr Cebola’s house, in homage to its first owner, psychiatrist Luís Cebola.
Discover Time Out original video
