The castles of former kings, historic mansions, summer estates of the aristocrats and the town’s medieval fortress are grand and historic landmarks in the quaint fishing village of Cascais. This beautiful town attracted exiled royal families during World War II who built even more monumental homes in the town and on the serpentine Estoril coastline.  Sharing a picture perfect point on the Atlantic Ocean’s edge with the Santa Marta Lighthouse is a mansion built in the late 1880’s, now the handsome Farol Hotel.

With the addition of an elegantly punctuated modern wing, the compound behind the stucco wall is an enclave of contemporary distinction, stylish opulence and precise yet pampering hospitality. The Farol Hotel, a member of the prestigious Design Hotels, is as intimate as it is cosmopolitan. It carries 33 rooms, many individually designed by notable Portuguese and international fashion designers, as well as exceptional restaurants and a lively cocktail bar. Dark dramatic walls in Bar Farol and the animated art-filled adjoining salons frame original works created by the properties artist-ambassadors.

With symphonic grandeur the waves’ first upshot is just outside the restaurants floor to ceiling glass paneled walls, completely retractable in season, crashing with an awe-inspiring display. With energetic force more water splashes against the rock as the wave moves towards a crescendo crash on the rocks just below the pool deck, reverberating spray high into the air. The Farol Hotel’s Bar On The Rocks is a mesmerizing spot for sunset cocktails and a must-see for anyone visiting Cascais.

Equally alluring are the two restaurants at The Farol Hotel, where high standards of innovation and excellence are seamlessly and stylishly achieved.  Under the direction of Chef Ricardo Deus the diverse influences that define Mediterranean cuisine are indulged to create menus that reflect the freshest seasonal produce, seafood and locally sources delicacies. Sharing the contemporary dining space with The Mix is Sushi Design. Entrance to Sushi Design is through The Mix and just up one step. At the helm of his Sushi Counter is Sushi Master Nuande Pekel, whose delight and passion for his craft transcends a warm intimacy to his dining room with endless views. Creativity, mixed with passion and command, is the guiding principle for food and beverage at The Farol Hotel where the crafted confections by Pastry Chef Michael Rocha exemplify that tenant with élan.  That principle prevails throughout this delightful seaside hotel that is crisply designed, sophisticated and quite special.

Start you Portuguese experience the moment you board the plane by flying TAP Air Portugal, with both Business Class and Economy Class service, from many U.S. cities and The Farol Hotel in Cascais is less than an hour away from Lisbon International Airport.