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When the former Onyria Hotel Quinta da Marinha sold off every last piece of its furniture in late 2025 – from tables, chairs, and sofas right down to the plates, glasses, and cutlery– it was a pretty clear signal: the makeover of this 1999 icon was going to leave no stone unturned. And it certainly didn't. Having reopened on July 1 with the upscale Kimpton stamp of approval, the five-star resort has emerged fully face-lifted, feeling warmer and more luxurious than ever.
The transformation was so radical that it instantly landed on the global radar: in late September, Business Travel magazine named Kimpton Quinta da Marinha one of the best new hotels in the world – the only Portuguese property to make the top eight. The British publication praised its setting "between the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, the Atlantic coast, and the golf course," along with its stunning bedroom vistas.
Those exact surroundings served as the muse for interior design firm Goddard Littlefair. The London studio wrapped the interiors in rich earth tones and lush greens. Organic textures mingle with contemporary design accents – as evidenced immediately upon arrival by the XXL pendant lights, whose multi-tiered fringes sway gently in the coastal breeze.
Maximalism reigns supreme here. Surrounding the lobby balcony – which looks down onto the bar, restaurant, and pool – a feast of plush sofas, armchairs, cushions, and rugs in clashing patterns practically begs you to slow down. Nestled in a corner, the reception desk brings the forest indoors with a green leaf-patterned marble counter. Houseplants abound (accompanied by framed pet photos, a nod to the San Francisco-founded brand's famous pet-friendly ethos).
At the foot of the stairs, the glowing counter of bar Fica! takes center stage. You can pull up a high stool to watch the mixologists at work, or settle into the generous lounge area, complete with cozy nooks that feel like a private living room. The same bar serves the outdoor terrace and pool with all-day drinks and light bites, while Ao Ponto delivers hearty, traditional Portuguese dinners centered around prime cuts from the grill.
A Restful Night
For anyone who stayed here in its past life, the bedrooms—194 in total, including eight suites and six brand-new, ultra-spacious Signature Suites—represent the most impressive transformation. Out go the sharp minimalist lines and muted grays; in comes a much warmer palette dominated by rich terracotta and forest green. Ceilings are lined with textured wallpaper, retro 70s-style lamps and bedside tables set a nostalgic tone (complete with an orange analog telephone for a charming throwback), and dark wood minibars come stocked with coffee machines, tea kettles, fine local wines, and gourmet snacks.
Sport and Wellness
While golf is everywhere you look (including on the attire of most guests), there’s plenty more on offer. The sleek new gym—a glass-walled wooden cube overlooking the greenery—is fully loaded with state-of-the-art machines and free weights. By reception, a fleet of retro-style bicycles invites guests to cruise through Quinta da Marinha down to the iconic Guincho coastal cycle path, while intuitive walking trails meander around the greens toward the Lake House event space.
Over at the Natur Spa, the sport of choice is pure relaxation. Think an indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi, and a deep menu of treatments. One highlights stands out, designed specifically for players coming off 18 holes: the Golf Pro Recovery, a deep-tissue muscle massage targeting the shoulders, back, and legs. As the therapists put it: "Designed for the demands of the swing—so you can get back to the green tomorrow, and back to real life after that."
Sadly, we too have to get back to real life after checking out of one of the world's best new hotels. Wish us luck.
Rua das Palmeiras 247, Cascais