The Vibe: Eco concrete.

The Area: Óbidos, about an hour north of Lisbon, is usually associated with its fortified hilltop town and the local cherry liquor. The Óbidos lagoon and beaches are nearby and can be explored on foot or by bicycle.

The DNA: The cutting-edge boutique hotel Rio do Prado, built and operated along strict eco guidelines. With just 15 rooms, or better bungalows, it is a small operation living large eco dreams. The latest technology is used to recycle water (to flush the toilets for example) and if you wish, you can check your daily imprint on the environment on the hotel’s computer system. The greenery continues into the restaurant “Maria Batata” which uses ingredients from Rio do Prado’s own greenhouse and grounds or from nearby farms to create a surprising menu based on the seasons. There is a small spa which has a sauna, Tukish bath, massages and a ‘floating room’ which creates a sense of absolute relaxation like being on the Dead Sea. In the grounds is also a swimming pool. 

Suite-Me-Up: The rooms are partly covered in earth, for insulation and to melt into the slowly sloping greenery. If you expect a kind of bohemian-rustic-eco atmosphere you are from it. Rio do Prado is decidedly modern, even avantgarde. Furniture is made of recycled wood used during the built, however you will also bottom-to-ceiling glass walls, polished concrete floors, free standing baths and walk-in showers.

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 15 suites (45-100m2) (484-1,076 sq ft) • hotel opened: 2014 • architecture: Jorge Sousa Santos ✅ free on-site parking • no pets allowed