Romantic and refined, the Fortaleza Do Guincho stands on the ruins of a 17th-century fort, overlooked a wide sweep of sand and the Atlantic Ocean below. It's a lovely bit of Portugal, home of the Guincho beach, the hilly Sintra region and the Sintra-Cascai National Park.

The facilities

Antoinne Westermann, holder of three Michelin stars, heads up the restaurant here: locals and Lisbonites love it in equal measure, so its a good idea to book ahead. Cuisine is French with Portuguese accents, with a fab wine list to match (as do prices). There's also a lovely bar area for after dinner drinks. Business travellers are treated to a choice of meeting rooms, plus a Gala event space for up to 110 people. Due to the romantic seaside location, the Fortaleza do Guincho is something of a hit with the wedding market.

The rooms

Each of the 27 guest rooms and suites are traditional in style, decorated with impeccable taste. All rooms are equipped with satellite televisions, a well-stocked mini bar, and wireless internet. For a treat, book into one of the three Junior Suites, which come with amazing private terraces and sweeping ocean views.