Relais & Chateux Fortaleza do Guincho Hotel – Cascais, Portugal
Luxury 5-star fortress hotel in Cascais, Portugal overlooking the Atlantic Ocean

Due to the July heat wave in Lisbon, I decided to modify my plans and my route. Instead of staying in the Lisbon area, I decided to take the opportunity to discover the Cascais area. Like the previous site, Cascais is located approximately 35 minutes from the center of Lisbon by car. You can also reach this area by train or subway after several stops. Upon reaching this area, I was amazed at the landscape, especially the difference in the climate. Cascais is conveniently located in front of the best beaches, and the temperature can drop up to 15 degrees compared to the city of Lisbon. I chose the Relais Chateaux Fortaleza do Guincho hotel; initially, I thought that a visit to it would not be possible. However, I ended up staying, and I do not regret a thing. The property on the outside is not very attractive as it is old and boarded up. However, upon entering the hotel, it leaves its mark on the memory and heart of the guest. It has a balance of victorian and medieval charm infused with breathtaking views of the Atlantic. This is actually the only five-star hotel in this region. It also features a unique 1-star Michelin Restaurant, which I did not experience due to its limited schedule on certain days. Upon being escorted to my room, I was introduced to a spacious bedroom with a separate balcony area with a sun chaser. The hotel does not feature a pool or outdoor tanning area but does have nearby access to Guincho beach. This family-friendly beach has impressive views and icy waters. The bed was rather stiff, but since my overall stay only lasted a night, it was manageable. The evening was my favorite time at this property; there is an outdoor terrace where you can order appetizers, beverages, and other things. I recommend the fresh scones, along with the view, are worth the visit.

Takeaway: Fortaleza do Guincho hotel is a fantastic choice for couples seeking a retreat for a few days. I would not recommend it for an extended stay or with large families due to the lack of entertainment. Overall it is a great space to disconnect and relax.