Recanto do Curioso is a charming mixed-use creative space in Carcavelos, just steps from the train station and a short walk from the beach. Founded in summer 2024 by Kate Faizova and Daniela Mertens—two kindred spirits and ceramics enthusiasts—the space (formerly known as The Toca) was created to encourage visitors to slow down, embrace their creativity, and have fun. The venue combines three distinct experiences under one roof: a paint-your-own-pottery studio, a ceramics atelier, and an English-language children's bookstore. The Paint-A-Pot studio welcomes drop-in visitors and groups of up to 20 people for relaxed sessions where guests choose from a wide selection of ceramic pieces (€7-50) and paint them with glazes, stencils and tools provided—all pieces are then glazed and kiln-fired by the studio artists, ready for collection in 1-2 weeks. The ceramics atelier offers workshops for all levels: beginners can learn the foundations of pottery making on Saturdays (€40), explore handbuilding techniques in the Clay Experience led by Dany Mu Ceramics (€50), or discover wheel throwing (€50). The cozy bookstore features the largest collection of used children's books in English in Cascais, all in excellent condition and affordably priced, alongside beloved classics and new publications. Inspired by the rugged beaches of Carcavelos and Cascais, and named after a chance encounter with a local octopus, Recanto do Curioso welcomes young minds of all ages and loves bringing generations together to explore curiosity and play.