KKTWW – Just Back From…Portugal

Whether you’re interested in a relaxing beach getaway in the Algarve, visiting world-class vineyards in the Douro Valley or touring the beautiful architecture, art and cultural monuments of Lisbon, Porto and Sintra, Portugal is full of unique offerings for all types of trips. Given its rich history coupled with its breathtaking scenery and extraordinary hospitality, it’s no wonder why Portugal is surfacing on everyone’s travel bucket list – Portugal embodies a stunning contrast of old and new.

Europe’s westernmost country features colorful cities with vibrant nightlife and Michelin-starred restaurants; quaint, traditional, cobblestone villages; beautiful countryside; rolling, green mountains; expansive winelands; cork forests; serpentine rivers; rugged coastline; and azure waters splashing into golden, sandy beaches. In addition to the stunning vistas, Portugal’s diverse landscape offers a myriad of both land- and water-based activities and experiences for all travelers.

During a recent scouting trip, KKTWW had the opportunity to visit some of Portugal’s top destinations and luxury hotels.

Six Senses Douro Valley

Vibe:

Tranquil, sleek, design-forward, health & wellness

Accommodations:

57 rooms, suites and villas with views over the surrounding vineyards, rolling hills and Douro River below (10 new rooms and suites will be added by mid-2019)

Amenities:

2 restaurants (with 3 dining areas to choose from), bar & lounge, wine library, 2 pools (one indoor, one outdoor), expansive spa with steam and sauna, yoga, pilates, wellness screening, personal training, gym, cooking classes, winemaking and wine tasting

Good For:

Couples and families with older children looking for a relaxing retreat with a focus on wellness and local wine offerings

The Yeatman

Vibe:

Classic luxury, panoramic Porto views, wine lovers’ haven

Accommodations:

109 rooms and suites, each individually decorated and sponsored by the hotel’s wine partners and featuring furnished terraces with panoramic views of Porto’s Old Town

Amenities:

2 restaurants, private dining, pool lounge, bar, wine cellar, 2 infinity pools (indoor & outdoor), Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa, Roman baths, hammam, gym, personal training, weekly wine dinners, masterclass wine tasting

Good For:

Couples and families with older children who prefer panoramic city views over a central location, wine enthusiasts

InterContinental Porto – Palacio das Cardosas

Vibe:

Traditional meets modern luxury, centrally-located, historic

Accommodations:

105 rooms and suites

Amenities:

1 restaurant (with indoor and outdoor seating), library bar, spa, sauna, fitness center, meeting space

Good For:

Couples, families and groups seeking a historic ambiance in a central location

Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon

Vibe:

Classic luxury, sophisticated, panoramic Lisbon views

Accommodations:

282 rooms and suites (the majority of which feature private balconies)

Amenities:

2 restaurants (1 with terrace seating), lounge serving Afternoon Tea, bar, rooftop fitness center with outdoor running track, pilates, yoga, indoor pool with garden views, spa, nail salon

Good For:

Couples, families and groups seeking the reliable Four Seasons service and amenities and prefer more space and stunning views over a super central location

Bairro Alto Hotel

Note:

Currently in the final remodeling phase and scheduled to re-open May 2019

Pousada de Lisboa, Praça do Comércio

Vibe:

Historic, urban luxury, centrally-located

Accommodations:

90 rooms and suites (including family-oriented categories)

Amenities:

1 restaurant and bar (with indoor and outdoor seating), grand ballroom, fitness center, indoor pool, spa

Good For:

Couples and families seeking a full-service hotel in a prime location (right on the corner of Praça do Comércio)

Sublime Comporta

Vibe:

Contemporary, bold design, expansive estate, breathtaking nature, health and wellness

Accommodations:

14 rooms and suites and several 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-bedroom “cabana” villas (villa features include a fully-equipped kitchen, private pool, indoor/outdoor fireplace and more)

Amenities:

2 restaurants, 2 bars, private dining in the organic garden, outdoor pool, tennis, yoga, weekly wellness group experiences, gym, spa with adult-only indoor pool

Good For:

Couples, families, groups of friends, anyone interested in laid-back luxury, wellness and unique architecture and design

Vila Vita Parc

Vibe:

Indigenous design with modern luxury, sprawling resort, family-friendly

Accommodations:

170 rooms, suites and whitewashed villas with private pools

Amenities:

10 restaurants (including Michelin-starred gastronomy, rustic Portuguese dishes and casual beachside dining), 6 bars, wine cave, beach, 6 pools, golf, tennis, private yacht, kids park, spa, health club, fitness classes, gym, hair and nail salon, barber shop

Good For:

Couples, groups and families with kids of all ages seeking sprawling grounds, beautiful beaches and a large variety of activities and amenities