Hotel Albatroz Cascais

Originally built as a summer house for the Dukes of Loulé in 1873, this hotel, which sits on a cliff head between two golden beaches, brims with old world charm.

• Waking up here, in the early morning before the world is up and watching the sun rise over the ocean right in front of you
• The sense of history interwoven with Portuguese art and period antiques
• The location, which puts the chic boutiques and beaches of Cascais all within an easy walk.

This handsome white-washed villa, topped by red clay tiles right on the edge of the ocean has long been a landmark in Cascais as the town has grown from a little fishing village to a sophisticated sea-side resort. In 1983 a new wing was added, and a terrace between them is the setting for the blue lined swimming pool. In 2000 an 18th-century Italianate palace, which sits back from the sea behind the Albatroz Hotel and contains a further six rooms, was bought as an annex. Here the rooms are period in feel with antique furniture. Décor in the main hotel comes courtesy of Portuguese designer Gracina Viterbo, who has woven her trademark yellow and jaunty blue nautical style throughout the rooms while drawing on Portuguese heritage to include hand-painted tiles in the lobby. Suites come with Nespresso machines and Clarins amenities, while rooms have soaps from Portus Cale.

The hotel’s location lends itself to days spent on the beach or lazing by the swimming pool, but the more active can borrow complimentary bikes and explore the area. There is a small gym, where from the treadmills you can see the sea, and a yoga deck.

The Bar, perched at the end of the cliff is a favorite sundowner spot. The elegant restaurant, all linen tablecloths, gleaming silver and gentle chatter, overlooks the beach and serves Portuguese cuisine. Try the grilled octopus with sweet potatoes.

Travelers who will appreciate refined service and the proximity to everything of interest in Cascais. The hotel itself is a tranquil space which invites you to just lie by the pool or sit on your terrace and watch the waves roll in. It is not much of a "scene."