Royal Obidos Golf & Spa resort – a real Paradise
The final stop on our Portugal tour (Royal Obidos Golf & Spa resort) was a spectacular one.
Voted one of the best golf courses in Europe it’s easy to see why this would be a golfers paradise however, there is still plenty to rave about for those non golfers out there. (Did you notice the last section of the hotel’s name by any chance?) That’s right, the spa. From the outside this hotel looks rather unassuming but don’t let that fool you, inside it’s like a whole other world. With the ocean in the horizon and the historical town of Óbidos moments away there’s no way the location of this place could ever be faulted.
This hotel is utterly elegant, even the lobby looks like a palace. The foyer is stunning with it’s Baroque style interior designed by Phillipe Starck featuring gold decor, floor to ceiling windows and decadent chandeliers, it’s absolute opulence personified. Checking in around sunset also has it’s pros as you get a panoramic view of the sunset reflecting off of every surface. The light and the views are truly magnificent and with each turn you take you are presented with a new stunning angle.There was also an abundance of helpful staff to assist whenever we needed them.
The room I had was a twin bed with a plush sofa, low hanging lights and a private balcony. The interior design is fairly neutral and simplistic despite the intricate colourful tapestry hanging up behind the beds. The beds were cosy and all amenities were catered for, yet the bathroom was truly the spectacle of this room. The bathroom was concealed behind two sliding doors and on the left you had a shower and toilet both sectioned off and protected by glass. (The famous Portuguese tiles are also on display here) Then to your left you have a gigantic standalone bath tub next to a floor to ceiling window. Taking a bath with a view of the sea behind you, can there be anything more relaxing than that? The room screamed indulgence and pampering and note how we haven’t even got to the spa yet!
The restaurant where we took breakfast echoed this theme of extravagance with all white plush seating and intricate chandeliers hanging everywhere. It also boasts a breath taking view of their outside pool which unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to sample but believe me I wanted to. That being said eating a delicious breakfast of fresh fruit with the shimmering water in the background was just as satisfying. On the topic of facilities the Royal Obidos clubhouse also features stunning panoramic views of the golf courses as well as the ocean. Eating fresh fish for lunch just moments away from the ocean is a notion so simple yet effective.
If you take the lift down you are transported into one of the hotel’s most important facilities – the spa. The treatment I was given was the elemental relax massage which lasted for 50 minutes and it was like drifting into another world. It was so relaxing I even fell asleep! (That’s the power of a good massage) A gentle massage overall that left me smelling delicious and feeling like a new person after an otherwise hectic trip. My masseuse was wonderful and an absolute professional. She ensured all of my needs were adhered to and even made some tailor made recommendations according to my skin type and body. Undeniably a highlight of my stay. It became very clear in that moment why this hotel has such a prestigious reputation for golf and relaxation.
For more information about Royal Obidos Spa & Golf Resort and to check availability visit their website at http://www.royalobidos.com/RO_pt/index.aspx or you can follow them on Twitter & Instagram at @royalobidos
TAP Portugal flies from London Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester to Lisbon up to 9 times a day, prices start at £124 return including all taxes and surcharges. For further information, visit www.flytap.com or call 0345 601 0932.
