Four Points by Sheraton Sesimbra

We were lucky to get a complimentary upgrade to a two-bedroom suite, and the design was modern, attractive, and carefully thought through. The restaurant was a real highlight, with delicious food, and the staff were welcoming and kind throughout our stay. The overall atmosphere felt warm, and we had a good visit despite a few problems. The bathroom had no heat, which made showering uncomfortably cold. We also asked twice for wine glasses and were told they’d be sent up, but they never came, so we were left with paper cups in the room. It’s a simple detail, but it made things feel less like a four-star stay. The hotel has an interesting history: it stands where a resort from the 1980s was left abandoned for years before being completely renovated and reopened as a Four Points by Sheraton. The renovation looks stylish and very well done, though some details still show the age of the original building.

We had to leave our house unexpectedly and, at 9 PM, were looking for somewhere that would take our Bernedoodle. What a lovely surprise to find this place. The property is spectacular, the staff were wonderful and eager to help, and the restaurant on site served excellent food. We’ll definitely come back.

For a rainy October weekday, it was quiet, and I couldn’t hear people in other rooms. The room itself was very clean, with a comfortable bed and clean, unscented sheets. I also liked having an empty mini-fridge for my own things. Internet worked well, and parking was easy and free with the room. The breakfast spread had lots to choose from: fruit, several coffee machines, fresh juices, pastries, sausage, cereal, and eggs that were overcooked. Ocean views were limited, and the cups in the room were all paper. The lobby’s signature fragrance was much too strong for me. It felt like eating soap, and checking in at reception was painful, so I avoided the desk for the rest of my stay. Booking was frustrating too. I opened the hotel’s booking page on several devices before finishing, and the price kept jumping every ten minutes. I must have triggered dynamic pricing, which was annoying when the cost went up from one minute to the next.

The pool area was pleasant, and the water was refreshing enough to cool a drink. Breakfast seemed to come with every rate, had plenty of options, and was overseen by a very friendly host. Housekeeping also did a good job, and the hotel was functional and clean. Most of the other crew members avoided eye contact and didn’t seem happy. The front desk handled the basics, but went no further: they didn’t answer my question about elite benefits, ask how my stay was, or send the invoice until I requested it. As a Bonvoy Titanium member staying eleven nights, I received a "Standard Room" and 500 welcome points. I felt I’d paid too much, and have no urge to return.