The fact that our 3 year old Lennox still remembers the name of the Palácio Estoril Portugal in full is probably suggestive of the impact this place had on him, and also us.
Located Estoril, on the Lisbon coastline just a 15 minute train ride or $8 Uber fare from picturesque Cascais, and 30 min from Lisbon), the Palacio Estoril is the perfect luxury hotel. It simply oozes sophistication, class and feels oh so royal when you’re there. It honestly feels like you’re in your own little private oasis. The stunning gardens, grounds and huge heated pool are incredible.
Just walk across the road for beach access, the train station and beach promenade, the location is ideal.
The hotel has a rich history and World War II, the Hotel Palácio provided hosted European royal families who had fled to Estoril, and apparently it was also the hotel for British and German spies which inspired James Bond and the movie “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” Which was filmed at this hotel.
They have also hosted many royals and distinguished guests, such as kings, queens princes, artists, writers, and more. The room next to us had a sign identifying that the Queen of Denmark had stayed there. It into cool to learn about the history through the hotels photographs and captions.
The hotel is luxurious with the main spaces and rooms that emit a feel of old school charm with the velveteen chairs, good, marble, chandeliers, beautiful art. Rooms are large, comfortable and have a fridge, kettle, safe, gowns and all the necessities.
Wellness wise, it is attached to a prestigious golf course and you also are granted access to their fully equipped gymnasium across the road, which also has a wellness spa for treatments.
We only dined for the breakfast because of a 3 year old, the dinner space seemed a bit formal for us. That said, the staff were brilliant with our sometimes temperamental child. They were so welcoming, helping him get what he needed to eat, offering colouring in and overall being so friendly. The buffet breakfast, which we enjoyed every day, is probably the best we’ve ever had. You name it, they had it. From an egg station where they made you omelettes or poached eggs to delicious hot dishes, fresh salads, meats and cheeses, seafood, and probably every type of bread and pastry you can imagine. Multiple butters and spreads, juice and barista made coffee, we could have sat here all day. They also gave an organic cafe at the gym, bar near the main reception, and a modern grill for dinners.
For the parents out there, there is a supervised kids club from 10-6 daily, though your kid has to be 4 for you to leave them there.
Overall, it’s a brilliant place to stay and we highly recommend it for a relaxing and comfortable holiday.