9 Best Hotels in Sintra, the Estoril Coast, and the Setúbal Peninsula, Portugal

On a rocky outcrop above the crashing waves, this gorgeous hotel was once the summer residence of the dukes of Loulé. Although expanded and modernized, its character has been retained, particularly in the handsome corridors and cozy terrace bar. Guest rooms combine an old-world elegance (carefully chosen vintage prints) with comfort (incredible beds). There's a small pool surrounded by loungers, and direct access to a small beach below. The acclaimed Albatroz restaurant serves superb fish dishes. A terrace restaurant-bar with gorgeous bay views serves more informal meals.

Just steps from the seafront, InterContinental Cascais-Estoril is a plush base for exploring both Estoril and neighboring Cascais. The hotel's cool contemporary design and luxurious facilities make it an ideal place to relax and recharge after a day's exploring, and with several excellent drinking and dining options on-site, you can easily make a night of it at the hotel. Rooms are light and airy, with expansive sea views, and the hotel has plenty of spacious areas for relaxing with a book and a drink. 

This luxurious 1930s hotel hosted exiled European aristocrats as they waited out World War II; today it draws golfers who play on the nearby course and weary travelers in need of pampering at the spa. James Bond fans also seek out rooms at the hotel—scenes from On Her Majesty's Secret Service were filmed here, and writer Ian Fleming is said to have written Casino Royale in the hotel's bar. The grandeur is still impressive today: several of the Regency-style guest rooms have balconies, and public areas are adorned with monumental columns and chandeliers. There are swimming pools inside and out, and a relaxed poolside restaurant that serves light meals in an alfresco setting. The modern Organic Caffe appeals to the clean living set, and there's no more elegant spot in town to dine than the Four Seasons Grill.

Hidden among the rolling green hills of the Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais, this dreamy resort has breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and the gorgeous grounds. Along with indoor and outdoor pools and a championship golf course, the resort's luxurious spa offers a private garden with thermal-regulated pools and a cascading waterfall. The resort has eight places to dine—including the restaurants LAB by Sergi Arola and Midori by Pedro Almeida, both holding Michelin stars—that consistently win awards for their cuisine. 

Set amid flower-filled gardens, this intimate townhouse has been fully restored as a charming boutique hotel. The painted-and-tiled facade recalls the building's 19th-century roots, while the interior features accented colored walls and retro furniture. In cooler weather, you can eat breakfast in the dining room under a tropical wallpapered ceiling, while on warmer days, you can enjoy the day's first meal in the garden.

Housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century fort, the Pousada Cidadela Cascais is a real treat for lovers of art, architecture, literature, and history. The whitewashed building sits within its own artsy "neighborhood"—the Pestana Cidadela Art District—which comprises galleries, studios, reading rooms, bookstores, restaurants, and open-air art installations. The hotel itself is a work of art, with individually styled rooms showcasing colorful contemporary pieces against a cool neutral backdrop. The whole complex feels crisp, clean, and contemporary.

Built in the 18th century as a home for the Dutch consul, this suitably grand hotel is surrounded by pristine grounds. You enter on the left side of an elaborate arch that joins the building's two wings. Inside, public rooms have period furnishings, delicate frescoes, and Arraiolos carpets; guest rooms are individually styled, some with hand-painted wallpapers. The elegant restaurant serves à la carte dishes and tasting menus. In summer, having coffee or tea on the terrace is a delight. A plush spa and outdoor pool are among the amenities.

Loved equally by outdoor enthusiasts and the fashion press, Dream Guincho offers boutique hillside lodgings away from the tourist trail. Unique touches abound, from the artworks (many of which are for sale) and bespoke book-themed furnishings to the piano room and reading nooks. There are just eight rooms, each named after a classic work of literature, and each with a terrace overlooking the ocean. Leisurely home-cooked breakfasts are served from 9 to noon, and there's an honor bar where you can fix yourself a cocktail to enjoy by the breezy outdoor pool. 

Perfectly integrated into the landscape, this luxurious hotel is built in steps up the side of the hill above the sea. Each floor has different designer furnishings and a different color scheme in which reds, oranges, and yellows predominate. View sailboats on the bay from one of the many panoramic windows or from your own balcony. There's an outdoor infinity pool, as well as an indoor "water lounge" with several pools, a sauna circuit, bio-thermic showers, and other treats.