OVERVIEW
Portugal has jumped to the top of the wishlist for our clients, whether young or old, with kids or without. That’s because Portugal delivers on all fronts. Excellent weather? Tick. Within easy reach of London? Tick. Family friendly hotels? Tick. Gastronomic delights? Tick.
So whether you’re tempeted to travel for the custard tarts or the childcare, Portugal is one of our favourite hotspots this year. We have some wonderfully luxurious hotels in the Algarve, perfect for those who prefer not to compromise when away from home. Blackout blinds, baby baths and sterilisers can be ordered in advance to keep packing light (and perhaps more room for that fabulous hat). Or how about the place to be, Lisbon? Hop on one of the trams to whizz around the city and find foodie heaven. Perfect for the gastronomes amongst you.
Either way, we’ve got it covered.
My favourite thing? Going where I’ve never been
CURRENT FAVES
ALGARVE
This boho finca-style property is one of the best kept secrets in the Algarve. With two local-flavour restaurants, twin swimming pools and cool, white interiors, this property only has 55 bedrooms but lots of space so you’ll never feel crowded. Movies are played each night either inside or outside, they have a tennis court and they light up fire-pits at night. Just a short drive to the gorgeous white sand beaches of Fuseta Island, you can take advantage of the hotel’s shuttle service which runs every 15-20 minutes to take you on the boat out to the island (arranging picnics for your day out on the white sand). Or take a taxi to the local town of Olhão a few km away.
This cool, contemporary boutique hotel is on the eastern coast of the Algarve (a 3-hour drive from Lisbon). Set amidst protected pine forests, you can take the short walk down to a magnificent sandy beach and explore the local restaurants and bars. With only 40 suites (all with kitchenettes and sofa beds) it’s ideal for families. With popular A Terra restaurant cooking up dishes with the wood burning oven, a small deli corner which is great for gifts, light lunches by the pool and kids’ menus, there’s plenty of choice for all. The hotel can also arrange baby cots and highchairs.
CASCAIS
This stylish 19th century Portuguese villa hotel is perched on an outcrop of rock a few feet from the Atlantic Ocean. Blending old and new, the hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool and secluded sun terrace to take in the views, between just 33 rooms. Children are welcome; cots are provided for free and babysitting is available. With a minimalist On the Rocks lounge bar, modern restaurant (they also have a sushi restaurant) and fantastic dining options on your doorstep, there’s no need for a car at your base, just 30 minutes’ drive from Lisbon. Explore the windswept beaches and head down to the lighthouse or just laze by the pool with a good book.
COMPORTA
This contemporary country retreat is less than an hour and half’s drive from Lisbon, tucked away just outside of Comporta. A short drive from some of Portugal’s best beaches, the sleepy fishing village is one of Portugal’s best kept secrets. Set within 17 hectares of fragrant pine forest, there’s a rim-flow pool, a spa with an indoor pool and a restaurant that rustles up fantastic food. Carvalhal and Pego are within a 10-minute drive or cycle ride but you will need a car to stay here. Choose between bedrooms in the main hotel or opt for the more exclusive “cabana” villas; set apart from the main building and offering the ultimate in privacy, with indoor/outdoor fireplace and private pool and deck.
LISBON
Named ‘Best Hotel in Lisbon’ by Conde Nast Traveller, Palácio Ramalhete has combined 18th century architecture with a rooftop pool and a city centre location. With only 12 rooms make sure you ask for a river view. This urban palace is one of the few surviving buildings following Lisbon’s big 1755 earthquake. The hotel restaurant only serves breakfast, forcing you out to explore and scavenge for lunch and dinner. If sightseeing gets a little exhausting, you can return to lie by the heated pool with a good book. The hotel also provides baby cots and babysitting can be arranged with advance notice.