See the flower gardens, walk around the ponds, sit on the artistic azulejo benches, admire the sculptures and have a drink at the small “pasteleria” in Marechal Carmona Park, also known as Gandarinha Park.
The compact park comprises the gardens of the Palácio Condes de Castro Guimarães, a striking 19th-century mansion that is now a museum and the property of the Viscount of Gandarinha. The viscount created lush gardens and treelined paths to turn the space into a romantic escape. The Marechal Carmona Garden opened to the public in 1944 and was renamed Parque do Gandarinha (Gandarinha Park) after the 1974 revolution. However, most locals still refer to it as Marechal Carmona Park.
This municipal park is where the people of Cascais come to walk, play and relax, especially when tourists take over their beaches on sunny days in the high season. The park’s playground, green lawns and meandering streams are inviting places to spend a few hours with the whole family.
Admire the many sculptures, which are very diverse and randomly placed throughout the park. To see more art, visit the Condes de Castro Guimarães museum in the park, which stands out because of its Arabian-style touches and its valuable art collection. The park is also home to the Municipal Children's and Youth Library.
Spot the peacocks, hens, roosters and ducks that wander around freely in the park. Cross the streams over narrow bridges and keep watch for small turtles sunning on the boulders below.
On a hot summer’s day, follow the winding paths through the shadier areas or rest on one of the free foldable beach chairs on the lawn. Enjoy the blooms in the park’s rose garden and cool off by the Moroccan-style fountain in a sunken courtyard.
Marechal Carmona Park also includes part of the Ribeira dos Mochos, which has lakes, a sandy field for traditional games and a picnic area. Each Saturday, the park is home to an organic produce market. Come early to shop for the best certified organic fruit, vegetables, home-made jams and sauces.
To get to Marechal Carmona Park, walk around the old Cascais Fort and pass through the artists’ village in the Museum Quarter. Entry is free.
