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The Oitavos: A golf resort celebrating the good life

Portugal is home to countless prestigious golf resorts attracting pro golfers from all corners of the world. But even if you’re not into golf, you can enjoy life to the fullest at The Oitavos - a five star golf resort in Cascais. 





A 3rd generation golf resort

After my first encounter with a Portuguese golf resort back in September, I had high expectations to The Oitavos. One can’t say I’m an avid golf player - even though I actually did play a little when I was a child - so why choose a golf resort?! The answer is clear: plenty of space, light and relaxation. The majority of the guests here are admittedly golfers, but I did notice guests who - like me - had simply come here to relax in the most serene surroundings.

The story of The Oitavos takes its beginning in 1922 when entrepreneur Carlos Montez Champalimaud decides to prepare this particular area for the construction of a residential estate. It all began with a bunch of pine trees and a dream, and today, the property is managed by 3rd generation of the Champalimaud family. Ironically enough, historical heritage doesn’t come to mind when entering the huge lobby at the resort: it’s all about contemporary design, innovative interior and lots of space. There are large floor-to-ceiling windows everywhere you look and the range of colors go from dark blue to sandy and white. This minimalistic approach either scares you away or makes you fall in love - either way, The Oitavos is worth a visit!

Dining with a view

The 5 star resort offers 143 rooms including one private villa with sea view (ideal for a family), a fully equipped spa and two fine dining restaurants: Ipsylon and Verbasco. Guests can also opt for the Japanese Bar or the Atlantico Pool Bar for a snack or a cocktail - or even better - join the Chef’s Table every Thursday, Friday or Saturday. This requires a reservation for min. 2 persons and max. 6 persons. Price (including wine): €70 per person.
I had the pleasure of dining at Ipsylon, which is open daily for both lunch and dinner. The kitchen is traditional Portuguese and French inspired, and I recommend booking a table around 8PM for divine sunset views!

Dinner is served at Ipsylon

 

…and breakfast (waffles of course!)

Apart from an indoor spa, the hotel accommodates an outdoor sea water swimming pool with stunning views to the Altantic Ocean and the never ending golf courses stretching all around the property. Golfers might be interested in the fact that the 18 hole links course is rated 65th in the top 100 Courses in the World ranking. For the rest of us - a dip in the pool and a sip of a Caipirinha would do just fine!

Tip! The Oitavos is located just a few kilometers from the famous seaport town of Cascais. Borrow a bike from the hotel and enjoy a brisk ride to the center, where you can enjoy a lunch and a walk at the beautiful beach promenade. 

A beach in Cascais

For more information about The Oitavos, click here. 


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