Restaurant Fortaleza do Guincho is the gastronomic restaurant of hotel Fortaleza do Guincho, located on the Estrada do Guincho in Cascais. Cascais is a small but famous beach town near Lisbon and famous for its great wind- and kitesurfing. The hotel and restaurant Fortaleza do Guincho are located near the Cabo da Roca, the most western point of Europe. Indeed, one could even state that this is the beginning, or the end, of the European continent.

The story of Fortaleza do Guincho is a beautiful one to tell. The building was originally built as a military fort in 1642, but it was only in 1959 that it was transformed to a hotel and restaurant. It was totally renovated in 1998, becoming a 5-star hotel, and joining the prestigious Relais & Chateaux brand. Its incredible location, perched on a cliff above the mighty Atlantic Ocean, ensures stunning views and breathtaking sunsets. From the dining room guests have a great view on the Guincho Beach with its crashing waves and the kite-surfing action. The Ocean and Cabo da Roca are always there to inspire you.

For many years, restaurant Fortaleza do Guincho was known for its classical French cuisine. In 2015 the concept drastically changed with the arrival of famous Portuguese chef Miguel Rocha Vieira. He was born in Cascais but headed to London to study gastronomy. After working at several top restaurants in England, France, Spain and Hungary, he returned to his home town, with his move to Fortaleza do Guincho. The Atlantic Ocean is one of his main sources of inspiration. Only the best Portuguese ingredients are good enough. The best quality fish and seafood from the ocean nearby, as well as the best quality of national products, are always part of Vieira’s creations. One of his seafood creations is a dish with Scarlet prawns from the Algarve combined with textures of carrot, kumquat, curcuma powder and a delicious prawn sauce. The dunes of Guincho formed the inspiration for the dessert with pine and pine nuts. An amazing and intense dessert, with a raisin ice cream, hazelnut bonbon, pine crumble and pine cream.

The wine list is among the best offered in the country, covering wines from all regions of Portugal and all other important wine countries. Fortaleza’s sommelier will serve you both Gran Crus of Bordeaux and local surprising wines made by talented and emerging Portuguese wine producers.

Leaning over the Atlantic Ocean, Restaurant Fortaleza do Guincho is the perfect stop for an unforgettable culinary experience. If you are near Lisbon and seeking for exquisite gastronomy combined with a unique view, make sure to visit this restaurant. It breaks away from the classical thinking with refined and creative dishes.

Written by Sven & Frank