Five Best: Summer events in Estoril

Dancers, musicians, windsurfers, show-jumpers, artists and chefs are all set to sparkle in Estoril, says Frank Partridge

This annual festival of music and dance is one of Portugal's leading cultural events. Renowned for the range and beauty of its venues, performances are staged at a number of palaces and gardens in and around Sintra. The concert pianist Martha Argerich is among this year's leading musical performers, while the dance events will be held at Sintra's Cultural Centre every Friday and Saturday night. Tickets start at €20 (£14) and can be purchased from www.ticketline.pt

International Lusitanian Horse Fair, 14-18 June

The Portuguese-bred Lusitano is the oldest saddled horse in the world, prized by the ancient Greeks and Romans, but versatile enough to compete in modern show-jumping and bull-fighting events. The breed is celebrated during five days of competition and demonstration at Estoril's hippodrome.

Guincho Wave Festival, 6-11 June

Welcome to the self-styled Hawaii of Europe. In the second week in June, when strong winds and big waves can virtually be guaranteed, Guincho Beach, near continental Europe's most westerly point, will host one of the biggest windsurfing competitions in the world.

Estoril Craft Fair (Craft FairFeira de Artesanato), 22 June-23 September

A permanent enclosure opposite Estoril's Congress Centre hosts Portugal's oldest and largest handicrafts fair, now celebrating its 43rd anniversary. Hundreds of craft-workers demonstrate their traditional skills: moulding clay, painting tiles, polishing wood, and weaving wool and linen. The fair is also a popular gathering point for locals, who come every evening for regional food, folk dancing and music. Entrance fee from €1 to €2 (£0.50 to £1). For more information, see www.visiteestoril.com

Estoril Jazz Festival, 7-16 July

Also known as Jazz on a Summer's Day, the main festival celebrates its 25th anniversary with an ambitious programme at venues in Estoril, Cascais and Lisbon. Ten evening concerts end with a tribute to the music of American legends Pepper Adams and Donald Byrd. Prices vary from €20 to €30 (£14 to £21) and can be purchased at www.ticketline.pt