Travel expert Simon Calder has named Cascais, a coastal town just outside Lisbon, Portugal, as one of his top winter destinations. The town boasts an average temperature of 18°C in November and is easily accessible via direct flights from UK airports to Lisbon, followed by a 40-minute train ride along the coast.
Cascais is described as a 'walkable size', making it ideal for pensioners who prefer to explore on foot. Travel blogger Caroline from Packthesuitcases noted that 'everything in the town itself is easily reached on foot', eliminating the need for taxis or buses within the town centre.
On his travel podcast, Calder praised Cascais as one of his 'favourite Portuguese locations', highlighting its rich history settled by Romans, Visigoths, and Moors. He described the town centre as 'an intriguing combination of sun-worn houses, cafés, shops and smart hotels', with excellent beaches within easy reach.
One Tripadvisor visitor called Cascais 'a little slice of heaven', praising its 'amazing, beautiful coastline, stunning, immaculate beaches and a really charming town'. The visitor added that 'the people are lovely and the food is out of this world'.
Calder also recommended Cassis in the south of France as another pedestrian-friendly winter getaway option.
