Hotel Fortaleza do Guincho Relais & Châteaux

Total number of rooms: 54 | Prices start from 381.62 US$

Built as a 17th-century fortress, Hotel Fortaleza do Guincho Relais & Châteaux now delivers a one-of-a-kind coastal stay. It stands boldly on the cliffs, where cannons once guarded the Atlantic. Today, you wake to crashing waves and fall asleep under vaulted ceilings that once sheltered soldiers.

This boutique hotel offers nearly direct beach access, just walk out and you’re there. Inside, the medieval-inspired decor doesn’t feel gimmicky; it’s bold, elegant, and well-preserved. You’ll see stone arches, armor displays, and antique furniture that actually tells a story.

The food is worth the trip alone. The on-site restaurant has earned a Michelin star and keeps impressing with seasonal tasting menus and curated wine pairings. But what really stands out is the view. Watching the sun dip behind the sea from a stone balcony just never gets old.

Good to know: Parts of the fortress were once part of Portugal's coastal defense system, and today, it still feels like it’s guarding a special secret.

Amenities to expect at Hotel Fortaleza do Guincho Relais & Châteaux