Parque de Palmela

Parque de Palmela is a green park on the border between Cascais and Estoril, on the Portuguese Riviera near Lisbon. It began in the second half of the 19th century as a private garden of the Dukes of Palmela. Today it is open to everyone: you can stroll among old trees, work out outdoors or catch a concert.

Where does the park come from?

The Dukes of Palmela commissioned the park, and work began around 1870. The Duchess, who took a keen interest in the visual arts, supervised construction closely. The garden was meant to reflect her taste rather than be a random patch of greenery. In its early days it served as a setting for parties, fairs and exhibitions.

The site suited the purpose well: plenty of space, large trees and water supplied by a stream, the Ribeira dos Boqueiros, which runs through the grounds.

What is there to see?

The park's greatest strength is its varied vegetation. Among the trees are rare specimens such as a Canary Island pine and a dragon tree. The grounds cover about 5.4 hectares, and the park is estimated to absorb roughly 54 tonnes of CO2 a year, acting as a natural filter in a densely built, touristy stretch of coast.

What can you do here?

The park works for more than a quiet walk. You will find:

• a treetop path suitable for all ages,
• a fitness circuit,
• an arborist-style obstacle course.

It is a good choice for families with children and for travellers who do not want to give up exercise while on holiday.

Culture in the open air

The park is home to the Auditório Fernando Lopes-Graça, inaugurated by Cascais Municipal Council in 1997. It has an outdoor seating area for about 700 people, used especially on warm summer days. In winter the programme moves to an indoor hall for about 200. Concerts, theatre plays and dance performances are held here, so check the current programme before you visit.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Parque de Palmela? On the boundary between Cascais and Estoril, in the municipality of Cascais.

Who created the park? The Dukes of Palmela, around 1870. The Duchess oversaw construction.

How big is it? About 5.4 hectares.

What trees grow here? Among others a Canary Island pine and a dragon tree, alongside many large, mature trees.

Is there anything for active visitors? Yes: a treetop path, a fitness circuit and an arborist course.

Are there cultural events? Yes, at the Auditório Fernando Lopes-Graça: concerts, theatre and dance, outdoors in summer and indoors in winter.