As a base for Euro 2004 the Equador Hotel was a great choice even if I did come across it by accident.

Priced at £270 for 10 nights (2 people per room, 3 rooms in total) my friends and I not only had cheap accommodation but were able to sleep in piece away from the buzz of Cascais.

The Equador is a 10 minute walk away from the main square in Cascais, a mini bus provides an alternative method of travel, however you can sometimes wait for 20 or 30 minutes before jumping abroad the bus, be warned that this bus does not go straight to Cascias therefore you may wish to take the walk. A taxi will cost 3.5 Euros.

During our 10 day stay we found that building work 2 blocks away was taking place, this meant for a early rise as the builders started work at 0800hrs every day bar Sunday. From my balcony the works were more repair than rebuild.

The swimming pool was disappointing however the surrounding areas were both clean and tidy.

The reception staff and the cleaners were both polite and helpful, always stopping to say hello and ask how you were getting on.

For those that need emergency accommodation try the lady who owns the hairdressers which is located next door. For 50 Euros she will put you up in her house!

The area around Cascais/Lisbon is wonderful for sightseeing,dining BUT we wre very disappointed with the Equador Hotel. We have traveled in Europe ,the Us and in Canada so we are aware of the variation in hotel accommodations and ratings. Stars DO count and this hotel did not rate the stars it displays. It is not a family hotel,not close to the main areas not well kept and I have some concerns about safety in the case of a fire and elevator problems.I can not recommend this hotel-it seems that they are mainly interested in renting to sports teams!