Built for a wealthy family in the 1940ies by influential Portuguese architect Raul Lino, this white-on-white estate – high on a cliff in the old seaside village of Azenhas do Mar – lay abandoned for 15 years until it was modishly revived be its German owner Chris Kraus two years ago.
OUTPOST is now a collection of six cool, clean-lined apartments set in a tropical garden staring vertiginously down to the Atlantic Ocean, while the midnight-green forests of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park creep up behind. They showcase Lino's pared-down vision and love of space and simplicity. Most have views on at least two sides, polished-concrete worktops and exposed ceiling joints. Original terracotta tiles, stone fireplaces and robust, locally-made wooden furniture give the place an air of rugged refinement (and parents a sense of relief that there's nothing too obvious for children to smash).
The Ocean Saloon is the pick of the bunch, with glass doors looking out to a private terrace and roaring, in-your-face sea views. Wool rugs in block-coloured stripes, an oval ceramic bath and a swirling sculptural pendant lamp - designed by Kraus in the style of Le Klint - add character.
In summer, the hotel is filled with fresh-faced, outdoorsy European families. A shared tennis and basketball court, gym, swimming pool, spa and store cupboard stocked with skateboards, games and yoga mats keep everyone on their toes, meaning young ones are adequately exhausted by bedtime. Surfing is a way of life in these parts, and the practically private beach – a minute's walk from the garden gate – offers sheltered waves suitable for the youngest budding boarders. Massages and fitness classes can be arranged, as can childcare – especially useful far a quick grown-ups-only day trip to Lisbon (about 45 minutes away). But with its hypnotic scenery and soothing, stripped-back interiors, it's easy to stay put at this crazy-good-value new hangout.
INSIDER TIP: There is no restaurant on site, but a breakfast basked can be arranged and lunch and supper easily called in from the delightful Cafe das Patricias nearby.
