A Foraging Adventure in Sintra-Cascais Nature Park
On a blue-sky Saturday morning, I embarked on a foraging hike in the Sintra-Cascais nature park, a stunning ecosystem located on the outskirts of Cascais, Portugal. Our passionate guide, ecologist Fernanda Botelho, introduced us to the wonders of wild edibles, from sow thistle to the unique Peruvian Pink Pepper tree berries.
Nature Meets Gastronomy
The park, known for its wild horses and deer, also offers 15 hiking trails and a chance to ride the endangered Miranda donkey. On this occasion, however, we were treated to an alfresco luncheon organized by Cascais Food Lab, featuring dishes like sourdough with sunburst-yellow inula butter and wild-berry burrata.
Imposing presence: Monserrate Palace
Cascais: A Rich Tapestry of History and Culture
Cascais, a wealthy gem just 32km from Lisbon, boasts beautiful villas and the Paula Rego Museum. After a stroll through Marechal Carmona park, I visited the Condes de Castro de Guimarães Museum, showcasing Portuguese art and history. The beautiful Praia do Guincho beach and Sintra's Romantic architecture added to the charm.
Chefs on Fire Festival
As evening fell, I attended the Chefs on Fire festival in Estoril, where chefs showcased their culinary skills over open flames. The atmosphere was lively, with visitors enjoying cocktails and live music amidst a bohemian setting.
Culinary Delights Await
The following day commenced with a swim at the Cascais Miragem Hotel followed by a delightful seafood lunch at Marisco na Praça, a local favorite. My culinary journey continued in Sintra, where I indulged in a travesseiro pastry while soaking in the views from the terrace.
A Toast to the Atlantic
To finish off my experience, I enjoyed a dinner featuring sea bream with sea urchin sauce paired with a bottle of Ramisco Arenæ Colares 2014, a wine that embodies the essence of the Atlantic.
Hotel Cascais Miragem offers rooms with buffet breakfast from £250 per night. This year’s Chefs on Fire festival takes place on 20-21 September. For more details on Cascais, visit visitcascais.com.
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