Thinking about moving to Estoril? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Estoril.
Estoril, a picturesque town on the Portuguese Riviera, is a place that has attracted many people from around the world with its stunning coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture. However, like any place, living in Estoril has its pros and cons. This article will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of residing in this beautiful Portuguese town.
Pros of Living in Estoril
One of the most significant advantages of living in Estoril is its stunning natural beauty. The town is nestled between the Sintra mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views and a plethora of outdoor activities. The coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches like Tamariz Beach and Praia da Poça, which are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. The Sintra mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer excellent hiking trails and are home to exotic flora and fauna.
Estoril is also known for its rich history and culture. The town is home to several historical landmarks, including the Estoril Casino, one of the largest and oldest casinos in Europe, and the Forte da Cruz, a 17th-century fort that offers panoramic views of the town and the ocean. The town also hosts several cultural events throughout the year, such as the Estoril Jazz Festival and the Estoril Film Festival, which attract artists and audiences from around the world.
Another advantage of living in Estoril is its excellent infrastructure. The town has a well-developed public transportation system, with regular bus and train services to Lisbon and other parts of Portugal. The town also has a good selection of schools, including the International Preparatory School and the Saint Dominic’s International School, which offer high-quality education in English. The town also has several well-equipped hospitals and clinics, such as the Hospital de Cascais and the Clinica de Estoril, which provide excellent healthcare services.
Estoril also offers a high quality of life. The town has a relaxed pace of life, with a friendly and welcoming community. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other European cities, with affordable housing and living costs. The town also has a vibrant food scene, with a wide variety of restaurants offering delicious Portuguese cuisine. For those interested in volunteering, there are several organizations in the town, such as the Estoril Rotary Club and the Estoril Lions Club, which offer opportunities to give back to the community.
Cons of Living in Estoril, Portugal
Despite its many advantages, living in Estoril also has its disadvantages. One of the main drawbacks is the town’s popularity as a tourist destination. During the summer months, the town can get crowded with tourists, leading to crowded beaches and long waits at restaurants and attractions. This can also lead to increased noise and traffic, which can be a nuisance for residents.
Another disadvantage of living in Estoril is the language barrier. While English is widely spoken in the tourist areas and among the younger generation, it is not as commonly spoken among the older generation and in the more rural areas. This can make it challenging for non-Portuguese speakers to communicate and integrate into the local community.
The cost of living, while lower than in many European cities, can also be a disadvantage for some. While housing and living costs are generally affordable, they can be higher than in other parts of Portugal. This is particularly true for properties with sea views or in the more desirable areas of the town. Additionally, while the town has a good selection of schools, the fees for the international schools can be quite high.
Finally, while Estoril has a good public transportation system, owning a car can be a necessity for those living in the more rural areas or for those who need to commute to Lisbon or other parts of Portugal. However, owning a car in Portugal can be expensive, with high fuel costs and car taxes. Additionally, parking can be a challenge in the town, particularly during the busy summer months.
In conclusion, while living in Estoril has its challenges, many people find that the town’s many advantages, including its natural beauty, rich history and culture, excellent infrastructure, and high quality of life, outweigh its disadvantages. As with any place, it is important to consider both the pros and cons before deciding to move to Estoril.
