A Path Through History
For generations, this historic route served as a vital lifeline connecting the bustling coastal village of Cascais with the rural agricultural communities of Cobre, Pampilheira, Murches, Birre, and Zambujeiro. The trail facilitated essential trade between the interior farming settlements and the fishing communities along the coast. Local residents would traverse this path carrying flour, cheese, milk, bread, and fresh vegetables to the Cascais markets, while washerwomen would make their way to village streams with laundry loaded on donkeys.
The waterway originates high in the Serra de Sintra mountains and flows all the way to Praia dos Pescadores on the coast. While the vineyards that once gave the stream its name have largely disappeared (the victims of a devastating phylloxera plague over a century ago), quince trees still occasionally dot the landscape and has given the waterway its local nickname “Marmeleiro River” (Quince River).
Natural Beauty and Wildlife
Today’s seven-kilometer trail winds through pristine natural beauty and welcomes walkers, cyclists and even equestrians to enjoy this peaceful escape where birdsong fills the air and wildlife rabbits can be spotted darting through the underbrush. You may even see sheep grazing or discover small gardens with a variety of flowers blooming depending on the season.
Olive and orange trees provide shade, while generous local farmers often leave boxes of fresh fruit near the trail for passersby to enjoy.
An Open Art Museum Along the Way
One of the trail’s most unique features is its collection of 52 decorative drainage covers, transformed into works of art by urban artist Tiago Hacker. These creative installations depict the region’s native birds, mammals, and reptiles, as well as traditional Saloia houses that celebrate Cascais’ agricultural heritage and strengthen the community’s connection to its roots.
The trail also reveals its rich history along the way as you pass caves along the route that once provided refuge for locals during pirate raids. The Gruta de Porto Covo cave, in particular, contains prehistoric evidence of human habitation, while natural formations like Poço Velho highlight the area’s geological heritage.
Maintaining the Trail and Environmental Stewardship
Recent expansions have enhanced the trail’s accessibility and reach. The path now extends over seven kilometers and creates a green corridor that connects Cascais village directly to the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. This expansion includes passage through the Penhas de Marmeleiro Urban Park in Murches, which makes it possible to reach Quinta do Pisão via this scenic route.
In April 2025, a new wooden walkway was added near the Encosta da Carreira neighborhood and now provides residents with improved access to this beloved trail. This addition reflects the municipality’s commitment to making the trail accessible to all community members.
The trail restoration project encompasses significant environmental improvements. Work has included rehabilitating the riparian gallery, clearing the streambed, removing accumulated waste, and establishing new vegetation along the banks. Water retention basins have been strategically installed to help prevent flooding, making this one of Cascais’ most important ecological corridors.
Planning Your Visit
The Ribeira das Vinhas Trail begins conveniently behind the Cascais Village Market, which makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. You can leave your car at the Cascais Village Market and use paid parking and access toilets, cafés, and restaurants. Multiple access points along the route allow visitors to customize the length of their hike.
The route connects Cascais to Quinta do Pisão and is 7 km one way and another 7 km back, making it a circular route. The 7 km leading to Quinta do Pisão is gentle on paths built by the Cascais Town Council
We suggest you bring a snack, there will be a small picnic at Quinta do Pisão and then we’ll walk the 7 km back.
Pack a water bottle, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare to discover why the Ribeira das Vinhas Trail has become one of Cascais’ most beloved attractions. In a world increasingly dominated by concrete and screens, this pathway offers something precious: a genuine connection to nature, history, and the laid-back rhythms of Portuguese life!
Want More Cascais?
Check out these tours in the region:
From Cascais: Roca Cape, Ursa Beach, Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira
Half-Day Tour in Cascais / Sintra with Brunch and Wine Tasting
Relaxed E-Bike in the Backroads of Cascais and Sintra
