Chalet Ficalho

Cascais, known as the "town of Kings and Fishermen, was once a traditional fishing village, forever transformed by King Luis I when he chose this coastal spot as his preferred royal summer retreat. It quickly became the epicentre of nobility, overflowing with grand mansions and lavish villas. Today, a visit to Cascais still evokes that golden era of Portuguese high society who summered here.

With its distinctive red shuttered windows, salmon-coloured stone walls, and grey-green roof, the enticing Chalet Ficalho is one such 19th-century villa. Lovingly restored with beautiful decor, its nine elegant and cosy bedrooms await you. In addition, it boasts three living rooms and a dining room, so there are plenty of common areas within the villa to sit and relax in and marvel at the restored original features.

Step out into the lush leafy garden, designed by Conde Ficalho, one of the founders of the Botanical Garden of Lisbon and discover the pretty outdoor swimming pool amongst blossoming hibiscus and the sound of birdsong. Opt to start your day with the delicious, inclusive continental breakfast taken on the garden terrace, with tasty local specialities, fresh pastries, and fruits.

With plenty to explore beyond the villa, head to The Castro Guimaraes Museum, the medieval Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort and the Citadel Palace, a former royal retreat. Nearby is the whitewashed Nossa Senhora da Assunção church, with glazed azulejo tiles or Paula Rego's House of Stories, which shows the Portuguese artist's paintings. Spend time at one of the many local beaches and embrace the array of water sports available, from surfing to sailing, or head further afield to the magical fairytale world of Sintra.
Come and make Chalet Ficalho your home away from home and live like holidaying royalty.