According to Conde Nast Traveller magazine “Finding Molton Brown in your hotel bathroom is the mark of a fine property. You know you’re in for a good stay” Well, we certainly found this the case on a recent press visit to the elegant 161-bedroom, five-star Hotel Palacio Estoril, on the Portuguese Riviera coast, 20 kilometres and minutes west of Lisbon and two minutes walk to the beach, with a large outside swimming pool as another option for bathers.

As well as the top-end toiletries, the big fluffy towels and the choice of bath or giant shower stall in the spacious marbled bathrooms, the cosy feeling of a good stay was definitely enhanced, for this Brit, by the complimentary tea and coffee facilities supplied. Those who like to play golf have a 27-hole course (18 holes are international standard) with driving range and putting green around a kilometre away. And within the hotel, for those who just love some indulgent pampering, is a “Sanctuary for the Senses” Banyan Tree Asian Spa offering nearly fifty different treatments and massages for Sir and Madam, as well as the nearby Estoril Wellness Centre for more beauty treatments and classes in yoga and pilates.

For the event organiser the 161 bedrooms come in seven different standards of size and luxury, and there are nine meetings spaces, all with natural light for 12-500 delegates. These include the Salao Atlantico for 500 with large windows overlooking the gardens, the richly- decorated Salao Imperial for 200, with crystal chandeliers, paintings and tapestries and the striking Sala Tropical for 60, featuring tropical scenes cleverly painted to give a 3D “trompe l’oiel” confuse-the-eye effect.

Hotel Palacio Estoril is a member of Great Hotels of the World Luxury Collection, which organised our press visit. Double room rates start from EUR 252. For more information, or to book, please visit web: ghotw.com or call 020 7380 3658

For our reviews of the food in the restaurants of the Hotel Palacio Estoril see our June issue.