The Farol Hotel in Cascais is a work of art in many ways. Not only for the uniqueness of the pieces that make up the decoration, but also for the service, where genuine hospitality is an art that meets our needs. Being an international member of the prestigious brand L.V.X. Preferred Hotels & Resorts, this former 19th century mansion, is an open door to the Atlantic, combining sophistication in design with comfort and haute cuisine.
Illuminated by the Santa Marta Lighthouse, from which it got its name, this mansion is a refuge that inspires us from the first moment, and which once belonged to the Count of Cabral, a Portuguese politician and member of the Court, who saw Cascais as an aristocratic village of rare beauty. The hotel has 33 rooms and suites, two themed restaurants, two bars with signature cocktails and an events and meeting room, where it is also possible to hold private parties or dream weddings.
You feel the welcome comfort as soon as you arrive in the spacious suite with contemporary decor. We open the patio shutters and are treated to an infinite sea view right in front of us, a scene that dazzles and brings us the tranquility that only the blue ocean can achieve. To ensure comfort, we have a king size bed, carpeted floor, elegant armchairs, quality amenities and a hydromassage. The invitation is out, moments of pure relaxation are ahead. In the morning, waking up and having a good breakfast (with buffet and à la carte hot dishes) overlooking the sea is in itself the perfect start to the day!
Much of the wooden flooring is still original to the house and this type of heritage is part of the DNA of this space. Setting out to discover this legacy means diving into the details, feeling the murmur of the walls that tell stories, now transformed into an art gallery where the sculptures of Adália Alberto and the paintings of Diogo Navarro, both ambassadors of the hotel, give way to new tales. Outside, the saltwater pool is a meeting point for long periods in the sun and moments of pure pleasure to the sound of the waves lapping against the rocks.
The gastronomic experiences at Farol Hotel are a must-visit and a delight for the most demanding palates, offering high quality ingredients, freshness and attentive service. A cuisine that combines tradition with reinvention of dishes in a very effective way, without losing the essence. At The Mix Restaurant, led by executive chef Sebastian Fritye, we find a perfect balance of Mediterranean flavors with a complete menu of dishes and corresponding wine offerings. Highlight for the crispy Tapioca with sweet chili sauce; Sardine spring-roll, roasted peppers and gazpacho sauce; Quinoa with broccolini, almonds and coconut milk or Grilled duck magret, zucchini and spinach lasagna finished with stracciatella.
In turn, the Sushi Design Restaurant is one of the best spaces in Cascais to taste the delicacies of Asian cuisine by sushi master Francisco Braga. Tempting proposals arrive at our table that demonstrate mastery of execution and impeccable flavors. Gunkan, Niguiri, Temaki, Uramaki, or Sashimi but also Shrimp Tempura, Gyosas, Tacos or Pokes. It’s difficult to choose – with so many attractive dishes – and each one is a unique surprise of flavors. In both restaurants, it is mandatory to order dessert and if you love Crème Brûlée you will be happy to know that this is one of the best I have tried. If at lunch we are treated to a relaxed atmosphere of sunshine and a panoramic view of the sea, at dinner the rooms take on a special light, more intimate and sophisticated, which provides special moments at the table, for two or with a group of friends.
Outside the hotel, the outdoor setting is also perfect for glamorous lifestyle moments: nature, walking paths, cycle path, golf, beach, water sports and the lively historic center of the town, always in the company of the Atlantic. It’s hard to say goodbye to the Farol Hotel but we always have a good feeling about coming back again, trying new dishes in the restaurant, strolling around the town and enjoying the good times in life!
By Carla Branco
INFO: https://farol.com.pt
MAGAZINE VERSION: https://is.gd/g5p70I