Farol Hotel, Cascais, Portugal

Nestled between the powdered sands of Guincho Beach and the picturesque fishing village of Cascais, the luxurious seaside retreat on the Portuguese Riviera was once the royal hideaway of the Kings and Queens of Europe in the 1950s. The 33 guestrooms are “dressed” by acclaimed Portuguese fashion designers, and sumptuous accents punctuate the ever-so-cool black and white interiors, hinting at the building’s regal history. The entire structure of this graceful, flowing sanctuary was designed to blur the boundaries between the building and its stunning natural surroundings. The salt-water pool, with waves crashing onto the pool deck, and luscious garden terrace are only a few examples of the fluidity Farol cultivates.