Parque Marechal Carmona is a large park in central Cascais, a short walk from the train station and just behind the marina. Shaded paths lead past ponds where turtles bask and ducks swim, while chickens, geese and peacocks wander the lawns. Families come for the two children's play areas and the picnic tables, and the café makes an easy stop. The park also holds the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães, a palace museum in its grounds.
Who made the park
The park was created in the 1940s by joining the gardens of the Counts of Castro Guimarães Palace with land that belonged to the Viscount of Gandarinha. The two areas were united and opened to the public in 1944.
The park is also known as Gandarinha Park, and that older name is still used by many people in Cascais. Its grounds were long a favourite place for local and foreign nobility, and the romantic layout of paths, ponds and lawns reflects that history.
Paths, ponds and animals
Winding paths run through the lawns, past flower beds, mature trees and several ponds. A stretch of the Mochos River runs through the grounds, and there are fountains along the way.
The animals are a large part of the visit. Turtles sit in the water, and ducks, geese, chickens, roosters, rabbits and peacocks move freely among visitors. A small petting zoo of domestic animals and a mini farm add to the scene. Peacocks are the animal many visitors hope to see, but they do not always appear.
The palace and museum
The Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães is a Revivalist-style palace built around 1900, now home to a small museum. It stands in the park's grounds, and its gardens are part of the walk.
A chapel, the Capela de São Sebastião, is also within the park. Its tiled fountains and painted ceramic benches are among the decorative details to look for along the paths.
Play areas, picnics and sport
There are two children's play areas, one for infants and one for older children, along with a traditional games area. Many visitors bring a picnic and spend time on the grass or at the tables in the shade.
The park also has a basketball court, a volleyball court, a tennis court and a skateboarding area. A café and public toilets are on site.
Getting there
The park is a short walk from Cascais train station and lies at the southern end of the town, near the water. The entrance is wheelchair accessible, and the parking lot and street parking are both paid.
Preguntas frecuentes
How long do you need at Parque Marechal Carmona?
A visit usually takes 1 to 2 hours. Some visitors stay longer with children, since the play areas and paths take time to explore.
Is the park good for children?
Yes. It has two children's play areas, one for infants and one for older children, plus lawns, picnic tables and animals to watch, including turtles, ducks and chickens.
Are there peacocks in the park?
Peacocks live in the park and roam freely, but they are not always visible on every visit.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
The park has a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot.
Can you eat in the park?
Yes. There are picnic tables and lawns for a picnic, and a café on site for refreshments.
