Cascais sits at the western end of the Portuguese Riviera, with rail links along the Estoril Coast to Lisbon, and Sintra a short drive inland. Transformed in the 19th century from a humble fishing village to a summer playground for Portuguese royalty and aristocracy, it retains that elegant resort character today with its trio of golden beaches and historic old town. Farol Hotel occupies a peaceful spot on a rocky promontory beside the marina and sheltered cove of Praia de Santa Marta, yet just a ten-minute walk from the town centre and the main beaches.
Thirty-three rooms and suites are divided between the original mansion and a modern wing. Several feature bespoke interiors by Portuguese and international designers, so styles vary from light and minimal to dark and moody, but all share clean lines and curated artworks on the walls. The four suites, superior and sea-view rooms all face the Atlantic with private balconies, terraces or floor-to-ceiling glass, while garden rooms overlook palms and tropical planting.
With panoramic ocean views, the main restaurant celebrates Atlantic seafood in multiple styles from raw oysters and Japanese-style sushi to grilled catch of the day. The bar and lounge serves cocktails and small plates, while a private ‘deck on the rocks’ can be reserved for special occasions.
Set on the rocks and fringed with sun loungers, the infinity pool invites ocean-view swimming. Yoga and meditation sessions take place around the pool or on a nearby private deck, while massages are available poolside or in-room. The concierge can arrange for various activities from bike rides, boat trips and golf to dolphin-watching and day trips.