Fortaleza do Guincho

Fortaleza do Guincho is surrounded by the natural vegetation and beaches of the Serra de Sintra National Park, allowing for lovely ocean views from the restaurant and some of the guest rooms. The building was originally a fortress dating back to the 17th-century, but today it’s an upscale boutique hotel that’s part of the Relais & Chateaux Association. Beyond the two cannons flanking the entrance, the cream-colored building is a bit plain from the outside. However, the interiors are refined, with a classic medieval style that complements the original architectural structure. There’s something romantic about the archways, stone walls, wooden arched medieval doors, and terra-cotta floors found throughout the property. There’s an interior courtyard lounge area with a skylight, wrought-iron chandeliers, and contemporary gray chairs and couches. The restaurant and bar have a classic vibe and are characterized by ocean colors, patterned rugs, tapestries, gilded paintings, and lovely views of the sea. Overall, it’s a quiet, secluded property that attracts vacationing couples -- and many foodies are drawn by the hotel's Michelin starred restaurant. Though billed as a five-pearl property, Fortaleza do Guincho lacks the amenities to make it a true luxury hotel -- but it's an elegant upscale spot in a stunning location.

Fortaleza do Guincho is located in Cascais, but far from the city center in the secluded and rural area of the Serra de Sintra National Park. Its location offers gorgeous beach and ocean views from many of the hotel's public spaces and guest rooms. The property is surrounded on both sides by beaches that are well known surfing destinations, as well as some restaurants, bars, and a surf shop or two. Beyond that, there’s not much within walking distance; it’s much easier to get around by car. It’s about a 15-minute drive to the city center of Cascais, while Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, takes around 20 minutes by car. There are a couple of golf courses about a 10-minute drive away, while history lovers might appreciate visiting a number of forts along the coast on either side of the property. The nearest train station is in Cascais, about a 15-minute drive away. Lisbon's city center and its airport are about a 35- to 40-minute drive from here, or about an hour by train from the Cascais train station.

The hotel has 27 rooms in a range of categories that includes Courtyard Rooms, Superior Rooms, and Junior Suites. Superior Rooms and Suites offer stunning views of the ocean from fortress windows or enclosed balconies furnished with lounge chairs. Courtyard Rooms are small and may feel a bit dark, and they don’t offer the greatest of views. The decor, like the rest of the property, is classic and medieval, but with a sophisticated touch -- though the old-fashioned elegance might not suit all tastes. The style differs from room to room, with elements like curved brick ceilings, antique wooden beds, terra-cotta floors, gilded-framed artwork, and antique pieces. Amenities are appropriately upscale, including flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi (though the signal can be weak sometimes), minibars, free fruit, and safes. White marble bathrooms are similarly appealing and Old World, with decorative tiles featuring orange and blue floral designs. There’s plenty of counter space around the sink and shower/tub combos include jetted tubs -- but there are no separate showers and tubs. Hairdryers, toiletries, and bidets are also provided. 

This boutique property lacks some of the features commonly found in upscale hotels, like a pool, gym, or spa, but it manages to provide a number of top-notch and free features. The on-site Portuguese and seafood-style restaurant has a Michelin-star rating and is complemented by a bar that serves drinks and light meals. Room service is available 24/7, and a free breakfast buffet is served in the mornings. The hotel has a medieval-style meeting room for up to 110 guests, as well as a business center. There’s a sun terrace with loungers to soak in some rays. Wi-Fi is free, though the Wi-Fi signal is stronger in public spaces versus the rooms due to the building’s thick wall structure. Parking is also free, and free loaner bikes are available.