Hotel Palacio Estoril, Lisbon

Location

Found on the shore of Estoril, this luxury offering enjoys the best of both worlds – a quiet seclusion and direct access to Lisbon. In fact, the centre of the Portuguese capital is 20 minutes away, while the idyllic Praia do Tamariz Beach is just a short promenade walk along the coast, passing cute cafés, art galleries and open house museums. But there’s plenty of relaxation to be enjoyed right at the hotel, with its gardens enjoying outstanding views over the city and the Bay of Cascais. It even features its very own golf course, while everything from wind surfing to tennis are available nearby.

Accommodation

From its elegant white façade to its classic décor and beautiful gardens, the Estoril retains all of its early-20th-century charm. During WWII, it even served as a retreat for a number of Europe’s royalty, bringing with them British and German spies. It’s no surprise that James Bond’s On Her Majesty’s Secret Service was filmed here. Rooms are appropriately stately, featuring feather goose pillows, marble bathrooms and traditional furnishings. Many come with small balconies that make the most of coastal and garden views. In turn, the suites are particularly welcoming, host to contemporary styling along with soaking tubs and large terraces.

Dining

The hotel’s signature Restaurant Grill Four Seasons is spread across two floors, all 1930s elegance and traditional charm. Here, diners are treated to a wide selection of Portuguese and international cuisine, with expert chefs mixing in contemporary flourishes. There’s also the Bougainvillea Terrace for something more casual. As its name suggests, it occupies a delightful terrace setting, overlooking the garden and pool – the perfect place to unwind in the sun with a light meal and a glass of something cold.

Facilities

Not to miss out on Portugal’s mercurial rise as a golfing destination, the Palacio Estroli features its own championship-standard course. Opened in 1929, this par-69 offering is host to the Portuguese Open along with the Portuguese International Amateur Championship. Back at base, there’s a fully equipped wellness centre, whose facilities range from a pool and hydromassage showers to treatment rooms and a superb gym – where group fitness sessions are held. There’s also the Bar Estroli – famous as favourite haunt of WWII spies. Today, you can relive this old world drama with an extensive drinks menu and a relaxed ambience.