Dolce Campo Real Lisboa Hotel is the perfect hideaway
This 5 star hotel tucked away in the heart of Torres Vedras (about an hour and half drive from Lisbon airport) is a perfect place to go to hide away from the world surrounded by acres of green as far as the eye can see. Dolce Campo is a place known for its wonderful golf course and it’s famed for golf tourism (like a lot of hotel resorts in this area) however, there is still plenty to do for those of you who prefer to drink tea rather than tee off.
From the moment we stepped over the threshold we were treated with spectacular service, which can only be expected due to this place’s excellent reputation. The architecture style of the hotel sets it apart slightly from others as it embraces colour. Don’t be surprised to see the rooms and surrounding villas painted yellow with terracotta roof tiles, a vast and vibrant contrast amongst the miles of green. The décor inside the hotel itself consists of a lot of windows drenching it in sunlight and Spanish style brown tiled floors. They also have a bar filled with cosy beige suede sofas decorated with plush pillows, chandeliers and mirrored coffee tables. This hotel in general had a lovely relaxed vibe to it with plenty of staff around to help you at your convenience.
Now in terms of the room I stayed in, it was a double one on the ground floor. A mixture of carpet and wood flooring and the first thing that hits you upon entering was this theme of seclusion and having your own private haven. You enter to see a spectacular double bed and cosy couch for ultimate relaxation. Next to this you have your own private balcony, my one in particular overlooking a stunning turquoise pool below. The bathroom was wonderful with optional pine shutters next to the gigantic bath tub and a huge walk in shower whose water was so powerful you stepped out feeling invigorated and fresh to say the very least. (Believe me it was difficult to leave that shower!) All in all in terms of décor everything was clean and modern with wonderful light. Kitted out with all of the usual amenities and if anything else was needed you had your phone there with a member of staff on the other end eager to assist. The room below is one of the deluxe rooms and also well worth it if you’re willing to splurge a bit more! There is also a spa onsite which is perfect for some relaxation after a round of golf or just general pampering and relaxation.
No visit to the Dolce Campo Real would be complete without a lunch at the clubhouse which is in a separate area from the main hotel, overlooking the golf course. (Naturally) It was airy and modern and we were treated to a delicious three course meal. This consisted of a cream and carrot soup with traditional Portuguese sausage ball, fresh with a subtle flavour and a mushroom risotto with sliced rump steak which was deeply rich and satisfying. All polished off with white wine and a trio of desserts, almond tart, cinnamon rice pudding and a sorbet to cleanse the pallet.
Needless to say at this stage we were pretty full so a walk around the grounds was in order. Now unfortunately anything golf related is lost on me however, from what I heard from the wonderful team that joined us is that it was a brilliant one. (Despite the rain, yes can you believe it actually rains in Portugal?) The breakfast options were also fantastic with a wide variety of options to choose from, including an abundance of the famous Pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tart, which I’m not ashamed to say I ate nearly every day upon our stay. When in Rome as they say) as well as fresh fruit, yogurt, eggs and other pastries.
The real selling point of this place is that although there is a bar and restaurant and plenty of places where you can be social it is truly very peaceful. Sleep is easily found because you’re residing in the hills away from any noise or disturbance. It is a hotel that is perfect for those who love golf, yet equally perfect for those who just want some privacy and time to themselves in their own little world. Either way we were treated like royalty by the manager as well as the staff and it’s a place I would happily recommended to anyone the next time they visit Portugal.
For more information on prices and availably check out the website https://www.dolcecamporeal.com/
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.
