You arrive at Lisbon airport, go out into the street and, suddenly, you hear the roar of an engine. You turn to look and it’s an elegant convertible classic car that pulls up beside you. The door opens, and a debonair gentleman steps out, dressed in a perfectly tailored suit. “Hello there!”, he says with a wink. “Are you ready for an adventure?”. If in your thoughts, you imagined saying yes, then in the next moment the engine came to life and accelerated to the Cascais Line, a stunning coastal road that embraces the Atlantic Ocean, also known as the Portuguese Riviera. The wind blows your hair, and the sun covers your face, as you enjoy panoramic views of the sparkling blue sea and the craggy cliffs.
The adventure begins in the vibrant city of Cascais, a haven for the elite in recent years. But what lures them to this coastal town? Is it the breathtaking views of the powerful Atlantic or the mild climate that offers scorching summers and mild winters, perfect for outdoor activities like surfing and golfing? Perhaps it’s the promise of a luxurious lifestyle, with opulent hotels, exquisite dining, and world-renowned shopping. And let’s not forget the thriving cultural scene that never sleeps, offering endless possibilities for socializing. Cascais also boasts easy access to the capital city of Lisbon, a mere 30 minutes away, where the jet-set can indulge in all the amenities of a bustling metropolis. The possibilities are endless, and the thrill is undeniable.
As you escape the hustle and bustle of the city, your adventure takes a thrilling turn toward an enigmatic destination – the beautiful Serra da Arrábida. Our skilled driver leaves the main road and maneuvers through perilous, winding paths with the ease and finesse of a true professional. We’ll pass by quaint fishing villages and sprawling vineyards that produce some of the finest wines in all of Portugal. Ascending the majestic mountain, don’t forget to ask the driver to make a stop. You’ll be entranced by the awe-inspiring views that unfold before you. The verdant hills, the rugged cliffs, the sound of waves crashing on the rocks and the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean…
And when it’s time to rest your head, indulge in the luxurious accommodations fit for a true secret agent. Villas with private pools and breathtaking views or opulent hotels that provide the perfect setting to unwind, sip on martinis and soak in the sheer bliss of it all. With each passing moment, the thrill of our James Bond adventure intensifies, and you can’t help but feel a rush of excitement course through your veins. So, are you up for a new mission?
WAS JAMES BOND BORN IN PORTUGAL?
Although the iconic character is often associated with the glitz and glamour of London, the truth is that his roots are in Portugal. Ian Fleming, the author of the James Bond films, frequently visited Portugal – particularly the Estoril coast – during the 1940s. It was here that he found inspiration for his spy novels: Yugoslav agent Dusko Popov, who, like other secret agents, settled in the region during World War II.
Fleming’s experiences in Portugal undoubtedly contributed to the construction of this character who traveled the world in search of villains, amidst stories of lies, high risks, seduction, patriotism, and courage. The well-known Casino Estoril, which at the time was a playground for spies, royalty, and Hollywood stars, was where Fleming was inspired to write Casino Royale, the first book in the 007 saga. In the movies, the Estoril coast also served as a setting for “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service!”. In 1968, the cast stayed at the Palácio Estoril Hotel and the same served as a location for the film.
The stunning coastline of the country, known as the Portuguese Riviera, has a mysterious side, but at the same time reflects a glamorous lifestyle, which captured Ian Fleming’s attention and continues to captivate the imaginations of several generations.
