Palacio Estoril Golf and Spa Hotel is a grand, 1930s hotel nestled in the charming seaside town of Estoril, Portugal. Offering a blend of glamour and luxury in a classical setting, this 5-star hotel is the perfect destination for relaxation, culture, or a city break. With a 4,000sqm wellness centre, award-winning spa, and medical services, it provides an idyllic retreat just a short flight from the UK.
Located just 2.5 hours away by flight, Lisbon is easily accessible from most UK airports. The hotel is a mere 30-minute drive from Lisbon Airport, and I found taking an Uber was both convenient and affordable. Across the road from the hotel is a train station with regular services to Lisbon every 30 minutes, as well as a 4-minute train ride to the picturesque fishing village of Cascais. If you're looking to explore further, a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sintra is just a 15-minute drive away. Golf lovers will appreciate that the Estoril Golf Course, offering stunning views of the town and the sea, is only a 5-minute drive from the hotel, with a complimentary shuttle service available.
The Hotel: A Blend of Elegance and History
Upon arrival, I was warmly greeted by the doorman in traditional uniform, and the charm of the hotel’s lobby immediately transported me to its glamorous past. In its heyday, the hotel hosted European royalty and film stars, and during World War II, it became a popular meeting spot for British and German spies. The hotel’s preserved grandeur and timeless elegance create an atmosphere of old-world luxury.
Set in beautifully landscaped gardens, the hotel boasts a large outdoor swimming pool with plenty of loungers. The sandy beach is just across the road, offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy the sun and sea. After checking in, I couldn’t resist enjoying a delicious steak sandwich by the pool, making the most of the glorious weather after a long grey summer in the UK.
Rooms: Comfort and Classic Style
Palacio Estoril offers 161 rooms and suites across five floors, each with either garden or entrance views. I stayed in the Superior Deluxe room, which was spacious and elegantly decorated with traditional dark wood furnishings. The room also featured a small balcony overlooking the tranquil gardens and pool, providing a peaceful retreat. The large marble bathroom was equipped with a separate walk-in shower and a bathtub, complete with luxurious Molton Brown amenities – the perfect touch for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Wellness Facilities: Rejuvenation and Relaxation
The hotel's impressive 4-floor wellness centre is home to the renowned Banyan Tree Spa and Estoril Wellness Centre. A tunnel connects the hotel to the wellness centre, so guests can easily head there in their robe and slippers for a truly relaxing experience. I made the most of the dynamic pool, which includes hydro-massage, a jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, and sensation showers.
The Estoril Wellness Centre focuses on health, fitness, and wellbeing, with a team of expert doctors, osteopaths, physiotherapists, nutritionists, and personal trainers on-site. With over six daily fitness classes on weekdays and one or two on weekends, there’s plenty to choose from. The rooftop classes, which are popular with local members, offer stunning views of the blue sea. I took part in a Pilates class, where the instructor was very attentive to my back pain and gave me some useful exercises to try at home.
The Banyan Tree Spa, the first of its kind in Europe, offers both Asian and Western therapies with a holistic approach. The therapists undergo training at Banyan Tree academies in Asia, ensuring that every treatment is of the highest standard. I was spoilt for choice when selecting a treatment but eventually opted for the Vichy shower massage, followed by a Thai Classic massage.
My Vichy shower massage began with an exfoliating body scrub, followed by a Vichy shower – a series of showerheads positioned over the treatment bed to cascade warm water on my body, combined with a relaxing massage. It felt like floating on water, and I left the treatment feeling refreshed and re-energised. My Thai Classic massage included a relaxing foot bath, followed by a deep pressure massage and gentle stretches of the joints. It was one of the best massages I’ve ever had, leaving me completely blissed out. After the treatment, my therapist brought me fresh ginger and honey tea and fruit to enjoy in the tranquillity of the treatment room.
For my Vichy shower massage, my therapist came to meet me at the spa reception in a swimsuit and swimming cap and led me to the treatment room. The treatment started off with an exfoliating body scrub followed by the Vichy shower - a set of 5 – 7 shower heads placed in a row over the treatment bed – combined with a relaxing massage. The warm cascading water made me feel like I was floating on water and I felt re-energised after.
My Thai massage started with a relaxing foot bath and cleansing juice followed by a deep pressure massage combined with gentle stretches of the joints. The massage was probably one of the best I’ve ever had, leaving me blissfully content and rejuvenated after. After the treatment, Mam brought me a fresh ginger and honey tea and fresh fruit to enjoy in the serenity of the treatment room.
Dining
Palacio Estoril offers a range of dining options to suit every taste. The Bougainvillea Terrace restaurant overlooks the beautiful gardens and pool, serving a range of international dishes as well as a healthy menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. For a more sophisticated dining experience, the Four Seasons Grill offers a menu of Portuguese and international dishes served in a classical setting. If you're looking for something healthy, the Organic Café, located within the Estoril Wellness Centre, offers nutritious meals and juices in a relaxed, casual setting.
No stay is complete without a visit to the Bar Estoril, where Ian Fleming is said to have created James Bond, inspired by the spies who frequented the bar during World War II. It’s the perfect spot for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail.
Who's It Best For?
Palacio Estoril is the perfect destination for solo travellers, couples, or friends looking to relax, enjoy some sightseeing, and improve their wellbeing. The hotel’s luxurious setting, tranquil wellness facilities, and prime location make it an ideal retreat for anyone looking to unwind or explore the local area.
To find out how to book your healthy holiday, discover the range of wellness programmes here or call to speak to one of our specialists on +44(0) 203 886 0082.