MH Peniche

Travelers won't miss this 2015-opened hotel when they approach it, as the towering white, modern structure dominates the landscape of a quaint town where lodging options are primarily guesthouses. The lobby bar, located in the four-story atrium, continues the all-white theme, with oyster-colored chairs, white pedestal tables, and a dark, highly polished bar that gives some relief to what could otherwise be an overly sterile theme. Conversations will carry here, but the overall effect is still intimate and welcoming. Blue-and-white hues fill the restaurant, from the patterned carpet and suede chairs, to the fish figurines and decorative tiling. Most guests, however, spend their days out by the pool, in the spa, or at the nearby beach. Vacationers here are primarily Portuguese couples, though families also frequent the MH Peniche. 

Peniche is a quiet, quaint town in central Portugal, lacking a ton to do outside of the beach. Fortunately, the beach is about a four-minute walk from the property, and active guests wanting to go farther afield can take the running path to the neighboring town of Baleal (the drive is about five minutes). The old town of Peniche is about a 30-minute walk through town, although a good part of the trek is through a rather smelly fish factory -- many guests opt for the nine-minute drive instead. Lisbon's airport is the closest to the property, clocking in at about an hour away by car. 

Rooms are stylishly designed, with striped throw pillows in primary colors and white, hinting at nautical pastimes, and camel accents giving an updated nod to the sand outside. Black wall murals of fish or sailing ships behind the beds put a welcome, and again nautical-themed, twist on standard hotel art. Across the rest of the rooms, wood furniture is practical and minimalist wood style, and sitting areas are comfy. Suites have separate living spaces with large L-shaped couches and dining tables. Sliding glass doors across the board open to furnished balconies with lovely views of the pool and sand dunes. Amenities consist of flat-screen TVs mounted over desks, minibars with free water, espresso machines with per-charge pods, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.Bathrooms feature Aroma de Portugal toiletries (though facial tissues are notably lacking), wall-mounted hairdryers, and bathrobes. On the downside for a hotel of this caliber, they have shower/tub combos instead of separate tubs and walk-in showers. 

The property's large outdoor pool is its focal point, surrounded by a plethora of loungers, a small circular kids' pool, and dining tables. A pool bar offers reasonably priced drinks. Indoors, the wellness area is modern and elegant, consisting of an indoor pool and hot tub, pretty treatment rooms, saunas, and a small gym with cardio machines and free weights. For kids, there's a game room with a surfing simulator, though it's in the same room as the business center and lending library, which may be an issue for those trying to work. An outdoor playground is also available.The restaurant serves well-reviewed local flair, including buffet breakfasts with hot and cold fare, which is included in all rates. The restaurant's top-floor location means pretty vistas. A lobby bar is also on-site. Wi-Fi and on-site parking are both free.