Casa da Pergola

Cascais is the most cosmopolitan town around Lisbon, but it still keeps the charm which has always characterised it and made it famous. Seaside resort for princes and harbour of refuge for fishermen, it still presents the beautiful buildings of the past that, since the end of the 19th century, served as holiday retreats for the wealthiest bourgeoise of Lisbon.

One of the most elegant and photogenic buildings in Cascais is located at Avenida Valbom, near the train station and right in front of "Santini", the celebrated ice-cream store. With its exuberant and flowery garden, it was once said that if for each tourist picture, the tourists gave one euro, its owners would probably be the richest people of Cascais.

Casa da Pérgola (Pergola House), which owes its name to the Mediterranean structure of solar protection that exists in the garden, differentiates itself from the other modern buildings that surround it by preserving the features of a 19th century mansion.

Casa da Pergola offers a living room on the first floor, with fireplace and TV.

Breakfast is served between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. in the breakfast room on the ground floor or in the garden, depending on the weather conditions. Having breakfast at the Casa da Pérgola is an activity in itself and that's why you have to enjoy it as much as you can. When the weather allows it, and this happens almost always, the main meal of the day is served in the garden terrace, near the pergola. Under the smooth light of the morning sun, the colours of the garden are even more intense. Flowers fill our eyes at the same time that three types of bread, eggs, coffee, milk, yogurts, home-made jams, natural orange juice and croissants fill our belly. It's an unforgettable moment of peace and calmness which is worth enjoying with no hurries.

Parking: Although the Casa da Pérgola does not have its own parking area, there are several underground parking areas near the house where you can leave your vehicle. The House offers the first 8 hours of parking.

Bicycles: Cascais's Townhouse places bikes at the citizens and visitors' disposal. "Bicas" are bicycles for public use, free of charge, which constitute a peaceful and non pollutant way of going through the streets of Cascais and neighbourhood. Although it was meant to urban circulation, there are many people who take them to Guincho Beach, through the fantastic cycle way that follows the spectacular N 247 road. You may get a "Bica" at about 100m from the house. 

Oceanic Beaches: at a very short distance from Cascais, you can find the best beaches of the Coast of Lisbon. The most famous one is "Praia do Guincho", worldly known as a great spot for surfing and windsurfing. Several world competitions of these sports are regularly held here. Near Guincho is the "Praia do Abano", which is smaller and more peaceful. Going north, you will find the secret "Praia da Ursa" which, because of its difficult access, remains far from the tourist guidebooks, and the beautiful "Praia da Adraga".

Golf: The Estoril coast is worldly known for its several golf courses of recognized quality. From Penha Longa to Quinta da Marinha, including the Estoril course, you may spend many hours practising your favourite sport.

Gastronomy: There are many good restaurants in this region. As it is close to the sea, the fresh fish and shellfish are the main specialties. In Cascais, try O Baluarte with a perfect view of the bay or the Cervejaria Luz Mar. If you prefer smaller and more familiar places, go to O Pereira or D. Pedro. When leaving Cascais, on the road to Guincho you have the Entráguas, which has excellent food, a pleasant atmosphere and view to the sea. On the way to Guincho, you will find other quality options, although more expensive, such as the Porto de St Maria or O Faroleiro.

Taking a walk in Cascais: This fishermen's town with its mild microclimate provides an amazing number of activities. In an area of 500 m around the House, you have everything at reach: beaches, restaurants, shops, cinema and even the best ice-creams in Portugal, at the "Santini". If you feel like walking a little, take the "Paredão", the maritime walk to Estoril, and enjoy the pleasant outdoor cafés at the seaside. At the end of the day, visit the ancient part of Cascais, with its small typical restaurants that contrast with the stores that sell the most renowned international brands. Finally, with the train station right around the corner, catch the train and do an amazing journey always close to the sea. In half an hour you will be in the centre of Lisbon.

Other points of interest which are worth visiting are the Cascais Fort (Forte de Cascais), the Sea Museum (Museu do Mar) and the Condes Castro de Guimarães Museum (Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães), whose garden is worth a visit. Right in the town centre, near the "Praia dos Pescadores" (Fishermen's Beach), watch the old seadogs who still repair their fishing nets close to their little boats painted in bright colours.

Not very far from Cascais is Sintra. Revive the immortal work of Lord Byron, by taking an open horse-drawn carriage ride through this lovely town, which is World Heritage listed. Visit the historical monuments and try out the exoticism of its exuberant vegetation.

- One night's rate

For babies (0-3 yrs) baby cots are provided at a cost, if sharing the room with two adults. Children 4 yrs and above get an extra bed at adult rates on a two-adult-occupation basis. Extra charges can be checked at our rooms and rates page.

• More than five days prior arrival, no fees will be charged.
• Four days or less prior to arrival, up to one night's rate will be charged, depending on hotel occupancy at the time of booking.