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

Standing on the cliffs facing the ocean, this historic fort may look austere from the outside, but walk through the entrance and you'll find all the luxury of an old-world palace. Each of the magnificent rooms has exquisitely designed 17th-century reproduction furniture and rich linens. A winding stone staircase leads up to the second-floor suites, which have an enclosed balcony providing incredible ocean views. The bar and lounge look out over Praia do Guincho, and there's a deck for lounging and sunbathing. 

The oldest lodging on the Iberian peninsula, this 18th-century grande dame has hosted such illustrious guests as Lord Byron and, more recently, Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. It's easy to see the appeal: the intimate rooms with beamed ceilings and wood floors are bathed in light from French windows. The ambience channels British high society from centuries past, right down to the five-o'clock tea with scones and jam. In the old-world restaurant, braised meats with berries and other local specialties are often served, alongside good plant-based options. A more informal restaurant-bar next door is a pleasant spot for late afternoon cocktails after a day's sightseeing.

This secluded country estate in the small village of Aldeia do Meco—12 km (7 miles) northwest of Sesimbra—is perfect for a romantic getaway. It's a favorite with visiting celebrities, who appreciate the privacy and stylish accommodations. Chic apartment-style lodgings all have kitchenettes and open onto terraces that face pines, palms, and fragrant fruit trees. There are sleek studios, spacious villas, and one beautifully appointed loft apartment. The extensive grounds flower gardens and a mineral-rich black infinity pool surrounded by colorful plants and birdlife, and everything is lit with twinkling fairy lights after dark. Breakfast (extra charge) can be made to order and delivered to your room, and rooms have kitchenettes. If you don't feel like cooking, staff can advise on the best local seafood restaurants nearby.

With its own winery on-site, chic boutique hotel Quinta Vale Da Roca will delight fans of Portugal's excellent vinhos. It's tucked away in the hills between Sintra and Cascais, and makes a relaxing retreat for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts as well as city-weary Lisboetas arriving by car. The eight spacious, stylishly appointed suites all have living areas and terraces with sweeping sea views, and even the fitness room and jacuzzi have been positioned to make the most of those panoramic vistas. A large outdoor infinity pool completes the picturesque scene, and there's a tasting room where the enthusiastic owners will introduce you to the estate's highly regarded wines.

This modern hotel sits directly across from the beach and very close to excellent seafood restaurants, lively bars, and the town's major sights. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with nice touches like flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Those at the front have balconies with sea views.

With a dreamy location overlooking the Arrábida Natural Park and out to sea, Villa Epicurea is a scenic spot to revive mind, body, and soul. The rustic-chic eco lodge offers home-cooked vegetarian meals (extra charge), wholesome breakfast feasts made to order, and spacious rooms and suites with large windows and terraces for soaking up the view. Guests can enjoy an infinity pool, yoga dome, terraced gardens with sun loungers, and a cozy communal area complete with honor bar (in case you need a break from all that clean living).