Renowned travel expert Simon Calder has revealed his top winter destination recommendation, specifically highlighting its appeal for UK pensioners. The coastal town of Cascais in Portugal has earned his praise as an ideal and affordable getaway during the colder months.
Why Cascais is a Winter Winner
Located just outside Lisbon on the picturesque Portuguese Riviera, Cascais offers a compelling escape from the British winter. The town boasts an average temperature of 18C in November, providing a welcome dose of winter sun. Furthermore, its affordability outside the peak season and the availability of direct flights from UK airports to Lisbon make it a practical choice.
On his travel podcast, Calder eloquently described Cascais as one of his "favourite Portuguese locations". He detailed its rich history, noting it was "settled in turn by Romans, Visigoths and Moors", and painted a picture of a town centre that is an "intriguing combination of sun-worn houses, cafés, shops and smart hotels".
A Walkable 'Slice of Heaven'
A key feature that makes Cascais so suitable for older travellers is its walkability. Travel blogger Caroline, from Packthesuitcases, confirmed that the town is a "nice walkable size", where everything within the town itself is "easily reached on foot", eliminating the need for constant taxi or bus rides.
This sentiment is echoed by visitors, with one tourist on Tripadvisor going so far as to call Cascais a "little slice of heaven". The reviewer gushed about the "beautiful coastline, stunning, immaculate beaches and a really charming town", also praising the lovely locals and out-of-this-world food.
Easy Access and Coastal Beauty
Reaching this Portuguese gem is straightforward. Caroline highlighted the simple and scenic train journey from Lisbon, stating, "The train takes about 40 minutes from Cais do Sodré, and it's an enjoyable journey along the coast."
Simon Calder also pointed out another significant advantage for visitors: the presence of "excellent beaches within easy reach of Cascais". This combination of historical charm, pedestrian-friendly streets, and accessible natural beauty solidifies its status as a premier winter destination.
For those seeking alternative European options, Calder also suggested the pedestrian-friendly town of Cassis in the South of France, demonstrating his focus on destinations that offer ease and enjoyment for mature travellers.
