Cascais, Portugal’s most chic resort and one of the most colourful seaside towns in the world, sits along a shimmering coastline about 30 minutes west of Lisbon. It is often visited as a day trip from the Portuguese capital, but it is no stranger to holidaymakers who want to take advantage of its stunning bays, many upscale restaurants, and beautifully laid-back atmosphere.
Besides its jaw-dropping vistas and scintillating landscapes, Cascais is also characterized by its winding lanes which lead to its many museums, gardens, marina, and its pedestrianized, boutique-dotted old town.
Having visited Cascais countless times, I have stayed in some extraordinary hotels, which range from hilltop boutiques to luxury beachfront resorts. Here are my favourite cool and unusual hotels in Cascais (in no particular order)…
1. The Oitavos – a trendy, Instagrammable and modern resort perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs to enjoy a memorable vacation
This countryside retreat is surrounded by one of Portugal’s best golf courses and has its own equestrian centre. It looks out onto the breezy Atlantic from deep within a 168-acre estate of sand dunes and pines, and cuts a very different look to the typical white-wasted Portuguese hotel.
Huge modern sculptures are set against the modern steel and glass façade, and when you take a step inside, the whole hotel opens up in front of your eyes with the infinity pool and sea at the end.
Being able to hire a bike, taking part in open yoga classes, and pampering myself in the natural light-filled spa were some of the stand-out experiences here!
To book, check prices or availability for The Oitavos
2. Eurostars Cascais – one of the best located design hotels in Cascais where guests can enjoy a trendy, hip and contemporary stay
I thoroughly enjoyed waking up the sound of the waves at Eurostars, and finishing the day off with a glass of wine whilst admiring a beautiful Portuguese sunset.
The hotel is inspired by the sea, the light, and the landscapes of Cascais, and you will feel its beauty when you step into your room, which comes with a charming balcony with epic sea views.
There’s a garden area with a swimming pool which beckons guests to soak up the gorgeous climate of the Portuguese Riviera, and a cafeteria-restaurant where you can taste the most delicious local culinary delights.
3. Villa Cascais Boutique Hotel – a hip, vibrant and cool hotel in a location perfect for partying Millennials and Gen Zs
Here we have a special villa in the heart of a picturesque village. This 19th-century aristocratic residenceoverlooks the Bay, and invites you to live and breathe the vibrant lifestyle that Cascais is famed for.
The rooms are framed by an idyllic setting and are teeming luxury and charm. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you should opt for the Grand Deluxe room, where you can soak in a bubble bath overlooking the ocean, and benefit from 3 private terraces.
At Villa Cascais you can embark on a sensorial journey through Portugal by booking a wine-tasting experience. You can also enjoy a round of Golf on a pristine course, book boats out to sea, and set off on incredible bike rides.
4. Pestana Cidadela Cascais – Pousada & Art District – a 5-star, upscale and creative hotel housed in a historic building moments away from popular local attractions
This eloquently crafted hotelis a work of art in itself, and exudes chic glamour through its many creative features. You can spark your curiosity and choose one of many different themed rooms, where flamboyancy and originality will make your stay one-of-a-kind.
The hotel is part of the Bairro dos Museus (museum neighbourhood), and hosts project rooms, ateliers and galleries as well as temporary expositions and installations.
With the help of the concierge, you can experience it all. I thought the gardens surrounding the hotel was arguably the best feature, and there was also a comprehensive array of outdoor adventure opportunities available to guests in the surrounding area.
5. Onyria Marinha Boutique Hotel – a new, 5-star and lavish hotel featuring a rejuvenating spa and wellness center
Situated just a few steps from the shimmering shoreline in the midst of nature, this 5-star boutique hotel offers an intricately crafted interior aesthetic which exudes glamour from head to toe.
Each room, decorated in shades of brown, grey, and white, are in a colourful harmony with the surrounding terrain, and come equipped with a balcony or terrace.
Woods and white colours predominate in the freshly decorated Drop Bar, which welcomes guests with light meals by day and evolves into a calm, vibrant cocktail spot by night. I thought the on-site restaurant was one of the town’s best, and it reveals the culinary complexity of Portuguese gastronomy perfectly.
6. Farol Hotel – a sleek, unique and upscale design hotel providing guests with a waterfront location
Boasting an idyllic setting right on the edge of the coast facing out across the azure blue, Farol Hotelis a successful blend of old and new.
The gabled, white stone 19th-century building is attached to a modern wing which is fitted with huge glass windows allowing the natural light to stream in. The intricate stucco work in the bars preserves the building’s rich heritage, and there are two excellent dining options on-site.
My favourite spot was The Mix, which serves delicious Mediterranean dishes. Another graceful touch here was the morning yoga sessions, which added a moment of wellness to the beginning of each day.
To book, check prices or availability for Farol Hotel
7. The Albatroz Hotel – a unique, elegant and charming boutique hotel within walking distance of the well known Cascais Beach
Sitting on a cliff head between two golden beaches, this handsome white-washed propertyhas woven a nautical theme into a quintessentially Portuguese style.
Between the villa and the new wing you will find a charming terrace which plays host to a luxuriant sky-blue swimming pool. I thought the staff here were excellent, and they made the entire experience a dream. I was able to hire a bike for free to explore the verdant surroundings, and take part in cookery classes on-site.
The 51 rooms are spread across three buildings and come in all shapes and sizes, while upholding a predominantly traditional style of hand-tiled floors and graceful décor.
8. Senhora da Guia Cascais Boutique Hotel – an elegant, lavish and petite boutique hotel perfect for a couple’s romantic getaway
Graced by a fusion of pine and sea scents, this gorgeous hotel brings luxury accommodation, attentive service, and delicious food to the discerning traveller.
The fabulous seafront location and ever-present ocean views create the perfect setting for the quaint patios and gardens which surround the villa-like structures. Three small independent buildings of traditional Portuguese architecture house the rooms, which are all elegantly styled and offer an outdoor private sitting area.
The on-site Terrassa Restaurant is mentioned in the Michelin Guide, and is a space teeming with casual elegance. Meanwhile the Ocean Spa, located on the lower floor of the main building, offers an intimate wellbeing experience.
9. Pergola Boutique Hotel – a beautiful, historic and traditional accommodation offering guests a homemade organic breakfast each morning
This Mediterranean-style mansionnestles within the centre of Cascais, and is surrounded by colourful manicured gardens which radiate beauty and elegance.
With the beach and its many accompanying eateries just a 5-minute stroll away, you really can’t go wrong here. Inside you will discover the charming panache of the local area through locally crafted wooden pieces, which bring an air of glamour to the spacious rooms.
I thought the interior aesthetic was spot-on, in that it exuded a fresh hip look but with a peaceful undertone throughout. The relaxing feel was upheld by the incredibly laid-back and highly friendly staff presence.
10. Estalagem Muchaxo Hotel – a historic, cozy and rustic hotel overlooking the picturesque Atlantic Ocean
Located on Guincho beach, this eclectic retreatis the perfect place to let your stresses melt away as you surrender to the rhythms of coastal life.
Its extraordinary natural setting brought an invigorating charm to my visit – being able to embrace the history of a 17th-century fortress while indulging in the waves and winds of the ocean was truly mesmerizing.
The hotel’s restaurant is one of the region’s best-known, owing to its immense 60 years of history and its majestic views across the ocean. The bar is another great hangout spot, and it conveys a unique atmosphere inspired by the cliffs and caves of the Atlantic Coast.
11. BCascais – Boutique House – a cool, funky and Insta-worthy accommodation located in the heart of Cascais
This graceful boutique house is a great place to stay if you want to combine nature and adventure on your Cascais vacation.
There are plenty of floral hues dotted around the property, as well as luxuriant potted plants. You can sit out and relax in totally serenity in the garden patio area, as you chat with friends and breathe in the fresh air.
My room was embellished with many modern pieces of furniture, and brought a hip, sophisticated tone to by stay. I loved the quaint little restaurant in the house, where a phenomenal breakfast is served in the morning and local dishes are crafted in the evening.
12. LEGASEA – Cascais Guesthouse – a stylish, contemporary and beautiful accommodation ideal for those who love outdoors activities
A stay at this tranquil, unassuming guesthouseis a deep dive into local life, and it will fill your Cascais vacation with a cultural flair not found in many high-end hotels.
At LEGASEA, the décor reverberates the essence of nature, with soft wooden hues, many potted plants, and locally inspired coastal artwork decorating the interiors.
This does not however compromise on comfort, with many luxury resort-standard offerings at your disposal including a bespoke concierge service, ultra-high-velocity Wi-Fi, and plush fabrics. The daily breakfast here is fantastic. It caters to vegetarians and vegans and can be savoured on the quaint outdoor patio.
13. Westlight Cascais Chalet – a bright, petite and stylish accommodation in an ideal location for those who love to go hiking
Each morning for me at Westlightbegan at an incredibly relaxed pace, with the glorious beach and sea beaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows in my room.
Sitting on my private balcony admiring the breathtaking landscapes with a coffee in hand was exactly what I had in mind before coming.
On-site you will be constantly reminded of the history and dynamism of the local area, with gracefully appointed artisan furnishings and locally crafted elements filling the interior aesthetic. The hotel is located in a prime position, with the beach a 2-minute stroll away and the winding streets of the eclectic centre on your doorstep.
14. Casa Vela Charm Guest House – a vibrant, spacious and quiet accommodation steps away from an array of restaurants
An enchanting garden full of soaring trees and sumptuous plants connects a handful of contrasting buildings at Casa Vela, and nestled in the corner is a delightful palm-fringed pool.
This is one of my favourite hotels in Cascais, owing to the seamless blend of nature and charm. Each room is equipped for both a long stay or a quick break, and comes with plenty of colour while overlooking the gardens and pools.
On-site you can take part in yoga classes on the lawn to strike a balance between mind and body, or indulge in a rejuvenating massage. You can also rent a bike and discover the nearby routes, which are manifold.
15. Ninho Salino – a family-friendly, bright and classic accommodation where guests can hire bikes to explore around the area
This peaceful abode is the perfect place to stay if you want to break free from the touristy scene and embrace the local charm.
I was constantly greeted with a homely, attentive service here, and gained lots of knowledge about Cascais through the super friendly, multi-lingual staff. The intimate guestrooms are draped in modern comfort in the form of plush linens, beautiful artwork, and cosy furniture.
They are also fitted with a coffee machine, while some even offer a private kitchen with an oven. From many spaces in Ninho Salino you can take a unique glimpse across the gleaming rooftops of Cascais, or admire the paintings which dress the walls.
To book, check prices or availability for Ninho Salino
My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my rescued Greek street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Laos, California and the surreally beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
