2 Best Hotels in Estremadura and the Ribatejo, Portugal

To get away from it all, head 15 km (10 miles) north of Leiria to this grand hotel by a thermal spa that was once frequented by medieval monarchs, from which you can make forays into its 60 acres of leafy grounds and the surrounding countryside. The 1920s building houses some very stylish suites, with plenty of amenities, but the rooms in the new wing are also large and plush, and all have balconies. Guests can use the large outdoor pool, but note that the modern spa, next to the old hot springs (which are currently out of bounds), is not included in the room rate, though various packages are available. The Paços da Rainha restaurant (€19) serves gourmet Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients, while the Real Bar has snacks and drinks from late morning until after midnight.

"Eco-chic" is the phrase that best describes this award-winning hotel near the Óbidos Lagoon: here, wastewater is recycled, solar panels generate much of the power, and biting insects are kept at bay by amphibians in a pretty pond. Guest rooms are dotted around the landscaped grounds, half buried for insulation. Inside, earthy decoration—floors are concrete, premixed with chalk for a lovely, creamy effect—combines with contemporary design touches, as well as air-conditioning, plus a minibar, coffee machine, TV, and Wi-Fi. There's also an indoor fireplace for winter and a porch for long summer evenings—when reserving you can also request a fire pit for an extra €20 per day, though guests often gather around the common bonfire before dinner. Most vegetables and herbs served in the restaurant come from the hotel's own greenhouse. Borrow a book from one of the two mini-libraries, or make the most of the outdoor pool and bar, the small spa, and the free electric bikes.