Estoril in
Portugal is the first stopping point in what is called
the Triangle of Gold, which includes Cascais and Sintra; all three
on the Atlantic Ocean coast, right outside of Lisbon. It is a touristy
area filled with flowers and palm trees. It became famous at the
beginning of the century thanks to its thermal, therapeutic waters.
During the Second World War, it became the hiding place for international
secret agents. Later, this lovely little corner in the Atlantic,
with its soothing climate, friendly natives and peaceful way of living,
was converted into summer vacation homes for many European Royal
families, such as Juan Carlos, king of Spain or Simeon of Bulgaria.
But Estoril has so such to offer.
Relax, sweet scents and good times
But with the
passing of time, many of these fantastic vila have been made into
luxurious hotel or cute rural homes. The city of Estoril has been
changed into the centre of cosmopolitan entertainment with its
recently renewed casino and surrounding gardens. Or for golf and
tennis lovers, impressive golf courses and tennis courts. The Estoril
Tennis Open is usually held in the late part of April and has been
witness to many a famous tennis player such as Carlos Moya or last
years´ champion Juan Ignacio Chela. The Estoril
Tennis Open is played in the Estadio Nacional ( National Stadium
) in Lisbon. It holds up to 5,500 viewers and depending on the
day, prices go from 12.50 euros to 25-30 at the weekend.
Tap your feet in Estoril
Music has always been an important part of the Portuguese life,
and makes up for a large part of the nightlife and entertainment,
especially in the city of Estoril, Sintra and Cascais. There are
excellent places to enjoy the famous Fado; originally thought to
have come from the chanting song sung by the black Brazilian slaves.
Fado means destino. It had always been associated to the inner passion,
something forbidden. But in the 20th century it was taken in by the
upper class and sometimes the piano keyboard interchanges for the
guitar strings.
With the Lisbon
airport so close, you might not want to
hire a car if you are only thinking about
staying in Estoril, but once you have made the effort to visit
Portugal, take full advantage and travel onto the northern region
known as Aveiro, on the coast and especially to Estarrejo. This
almost hidden fishing village on the statuary of Aveiro is quaint,
really enjoyable for just relaxing and for travelling back in
time. Its also known for its beautiful tiles, seen on houses
and in the chapel. And one more little stop of while driving
your rented car would be Carcavelos, 12 kilometres west of Lisbon,
marking the end of the Tagus
River and the beginning of the Atlantic
Ocean There is a fortress there named Forte de Sao Juliao da
Barra which is said to have protected the Tagus from enemy boats.
But fear not, nowadays you can only find fun people, interesting
sights and lots of tranquility, if you want, when staying in Estoril,
Portugal.
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