Estremadura, the heart of rural Portugal, captivates visitors with its emerald hills, historic market towns and dramatic Atlantic coastline. From the bustling streets of Cascais to the world-class surf breaks of Peniche, the coastline provides countless opportunities for both relaxation and adventure, while the magical town of Sintra, with its heritage palaces and verdant gardens, will delight culture and architecture aficionados. The best places to stay in Estremadura range from charming coastal spots to inland hideaways, each offering unique perspectives on this diverse region.

The area boasts an impressive array of natural and historical attractions. Explore Portugal's largest cave system at Escoural Cave, marvel at over 1,000 sauropod footprints at the Monumento Natural das Pegadas dos Dinossáurios, or follow spectacular hiking and cycling trails through the pristine Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais. Active travellers can sail, swim, surf, kite or windsurf at the coast, too, whilst more laid-back holidaymakers soak up the sunshine on golden beaches.

Portugal is deservedly famous for its food, and you can expect delicious seasonal specialities at family-owned eateries, buzzing farmers’ markets and hip seafood restaurants. Many of the best places to stay in Estremadura incorporate homegrown produce into their dishes — often best paired with a glass or two of Portuguese wine. 

The Best Places to Stay in Estremadura

For a Charming B&B 

• Mercearia d'Alegeria B&B, formerly a grocery store in Peniche, is a pretty pink-painted building with charming guest rooms. One for those dreaming of a characterful yet affordable stay, with friendly hosts. Breakfasts of fruit and baked goods are a nice touch, and the beach is within easy reach. 
• Casa Miradoura is a simple guesthouse on a hill with pretty gardens, a sunny terrace and inviting bedrooms with hardwood floors and crisp white linens. Hearty breakfasts provide welcome fuel for days of exploring Sintra and the surrounding countryside. 
• Villa Vasco do Gama has a beautifully preserved historic façade, and sits within Cascais' historic town centre. The interiors are cool and contemporary, with zellige tiles in big showers, bold wallpapers and wooden floorboards. Generous breakfasts are the perfect way to kickstart the day. 

For the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

• The Oitavos is a five-star spot with 142 guest rooms in a contemporary building facing the ocean. Set within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, this sleek, minimalist hotel encourages guests to experience Portugal's natural beauty through coastal walks and cycles. There's an award-winning golf course, and multiple pools and restaurants, too. 
• Sintra Marmoris Palace, set between the city and the nearby national park, is a 19th-century manor house with lavish traditional suites, manicured gardens and glorious views. Romantic and luxurious. 
• Eco Soul sits between the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and Ericeira's World Surf Reserve. Bright guest rooms have eclectic soft furnishings, and are surrounded by lovely gardens. An intimate retreat for couples, with just six spacious suites and a tranquil atmosphere. 

For Surf-Focused Cool

• Surfers Lodge Peniche, near the iconic Baleal Beach, is a top spot for surfers. Unwind in sleek, spacious guest rooms with quirky art pieces after days out on the water. There's a refreshing swimming pool, chic bar and eatery, and glorious rooftop terrace with sea views. The hotel has its own surf academy and draws a hip, sociable crowd. Very cool.
• Immerso Hotel in Ericeira has sustainability at its heart. The minimalist wood and concrete structure feels appealingly natural and organic — as does the homegrown gourmet cuisine. A sensational spa encourages guests to unwind in style after beach dips, surfing and yoga in the sunshine. A design-led gem. 
• Noah Surf House is a cool, contemporary hotel with a strong focus on surfing. Just across the road from the Santa Cruz beaches, this lively spot has private bungalows and suites, as well as dorm rooms, all built using reclaimed and upcycled materials. Expect floor-to-ceiling windows with dramatic views, a refreshing pool, in-house skatepark, restaurant and stacks of style. 
• Aethos Ericeira is a sleek surf and design hotel on the edge of a cliff near Ericeira, with dramatic ocean views from minimalist guest rooms and the wraparound wooden walkway. The meditation deck, yoga classes, salt water pool and soothing spa make this a brilliant wellness retreat for well-heeled surfers in search of something truly special. Very hip. 

For Families 

• Penha Longa, hidden in the hills outside Sintra, has 194 chic and spacious guest rooms and suites with beautiful balconies. Families will adore the kids club and flexible accommodation options. The resort also boasts two golf courses, a serene spa and a selection of excellent restaurants. 
• Onyria Marinha Boutique Hotel has 72 guest rooms set amid expansive landscaped grounds near Guincho Beach. Ideal for surfing, kite and windsurfing, it's a popular pick with active guests of all ages. The indulgent spa will delight adults, whilst little ones can play at the pool, playground and kids club. Expect modern interiors with white lines and pale wooden furnishings. 
• You and The Sea offers a collection of contemporary studios and multi-roomed family apartments, perfect for group holidays near Ericeira. There's a swimming pool and spa in lovely gardens. The relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the beach will appeal to guests of all ages. 
• Aldeia da Mata Pequena is a collection of pretty whitewashed houses in a lovely village on the outskirts of Mafra. Offering a taste of the real Portugal, these restored homes have timber floors and exposed stone walls. With private kitchens, sitting rooms and BBQ areas, as well as cosy fireplaces, they're great for families or groups looking to kick back together. 

For Foodies

• Fortaleza Do Guincho, a 17th century fortification in the heart of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, is famed for its Michelin-starred restaurant. Chef Gil Fernandes' innovative dishes showcase top-notch fresh seafood and locally grown ingredients. The degustation menu is superb — as are the sunset views. Romantic rooms invite foodies to stay on for a long weekend. 

For Romantic Luxury

• Villa Cascais is a stunning 11-bedroom hideaway with impeccable interiors and gourmet cuisine. A 19th-century mansion overlooking the ocean in Cascais, this sensational spot has been transformed into a boutique bolthole with parquet flooring, antique Portuguese tiles and statement royal blue textiles in generous guest rooms with free-standing tubs. 
• Casa Holstein Quinta Sao Sebastiao, set amidst lush formal gardens near Sintra, has an inviting swimming pool and 13 individually decorated guest rooms with pale wooden furnishings and carefully chosen antiques. The hotel's pistachio-painted façade is stunning. A boutique bolthole for couples. 
• Hotel Albatroz sits on a rocky outcrop between two sandy coves near Cascais. The hotel has stylish interiors plus a gourmet restaurant, swimming pool and beach access. 
• Farol Design Hotel has sleek, design-led interiors, with eight categories of rooms decorated by Portuguese and international fashion designers. Think attic rooms with glass walls overlooking the Atlantic, or maximalist red-bedecked suites. The two restaurants specialise in fresh seafood. One for design-minded couples. 

For an apartment or villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to Lisbon Airport, and travel on to your destination in Estremadura by road or rail with ease. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick-up in advance. 
• Estremadura is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• The region is a brilliant year-round destination, with temperatures averaging around 22-25°C between June and early September. Spring and autumn are cooler and quieter — this is a great time to travel if you'd like to avoid the school holiday crowds. If you're keen to surf, look into the seasonal conditions ahead of planning your trip. 

Still not sure?