Portugal has been on a serious roll lately—so much so that GoTravelDaily named it Destination of the Year for 2016—due in part to a revitalization of urban centers like Lisbon and Porto. The wine industry in the Douro Valley is also thriving (and bottles are unbelievably reasonable). Moreover, the beaches and charming coastal towns are less known to American travelers than those in France and Italy, yet that’s part of the appeal. The country’s moment in the sun continues with Convento do Espinheiro, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa set in the town of Évora, receiving top honors among resort hotels in Spain and Portugal. Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the top attractions in the Alentejo region, which is experiencing growing popularity for its sweeping landscapes, robust food and wine culture, and rich history. Convento do Espinheiro, housed in a former convent building with vaulted cloisters and expansive grounds, offers a winning combination of atmosphere, setting, and luxury. One respondent lauded it as “one of the most beautiful experiences of my life,” praising its “excellent service, dreamy comfort, extraordinary history,” and restaurant, which “will blow your mind.” Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, respondents share their opinions on travel experiences worldwide—ranking top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were evaluated based on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as City or Resort based on their locations and amenities. The Penha Longa Resort, located in the historic resort town of Sintra, 30 minutes outside Lisbon, secured second place this year. Set in the rolling hills of a 545-acre national park bordering two magnificent beaches, the property features a 27-hole golf course, a 19th-century palace, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. The only Spanish property on this year’s list was the Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa. This legendary hotel, which opened in 1954 and captivated celebrity beachgoers in the 1960s and 70s, continues to attract a glamorous crowd with its impeccable styling and lush gardens.
3. Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, Marbella, Spain
Score: 88.76
2. Penha Longa Resort, Sintra, Portugal
Score: 92.85
1. Convento do Espinheiro, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa, Évora, Portugal
Score: 94.22
Travelers visiting Évora, nestled in Portugal’s Alentejo region, are drawn to experience the town’s impressive Roman history. Thus, it is fitting that they might enjoy staying at a property steeped in history, such as Convento do Espinheiro, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa. Originally constructed in the 15th century, this striking whitewashed convent was built after the Virgin Mary appeared to a shepherd near a hawthorn tree, or espinheiro, at the site. Currently, it is recognized as one of the region’s premier accommodations, offering 90 atmospheric rooms, two pools (one indoor and one outdoor), and a wine bar located in a refreshed cistern. “One of the most unique hotels we have ever stayed at,” one guest remarked. “Amazing property, and spectacular surroundings.”
