The stays to watch in 2026
At The Real Thing, we’re always looking ahead — and 2026 is shaping up to be a defining year for travel across Spain and Portugal. A new wave of thoughtfully designed hotels is set to open across the Iberian Peninsula, from understated coastal retreats to culture-rich city addresses, each offering a fresh way to experience these much-loved destinations.
Macenas Mediterranean Resort | Mojácar, Spain
A brand-new 5-star hotel debuting in Mojácar as part of the Macenas Mediterranean Resort, marking the first luxury property of its kind in the area. Designed with discreet luxury that blends into the natural landscape, it’s set to elevate this Almería coast destination.
Meliá Collection Bahía Estepona | Costa del Sol, Spain
Part of Meliá Hotels International’s growth on the Costa del Sol, this upcoming Meliá Collection hotel in Estepona will offer stylish beachfront rooms, local gastronomy and premium service, adding a new luxury option to this vibrant seaside stretch.
Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra | Mallorca, Spain
Set to be one of Mallorca’s standout resorts in 2026, Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra sits near Puerto Portals with elegant rooms, bungalows, wellness spaces and several dining venues, perfect for longer island stays.
Six Senses Lisbon | Lisbon, Portugal
A highly anticipated addition to Lisbon’s luxury scene, Six Senses Lisbon will bring the brand’s signature wellness-led hospitality to restored historic buildings in the heart of the Portuguese capital, a great mix of culture and refined urban comfort.
Kimpton Lisbon Parque VIII | Lisbon, Portugal
Kimpton’s first hotel in Lisbon will offer design-driven rooms, vibrant restaurant and bar spaces, and a central location ideal for exploring the city’s cultural highlights, marking a new lifestyle option in the capital.
Vermelho Lagoa by Christian Louboutin | Algarve, Portugal
Part of Christian Louboutin’s boutique hotel collection, this intimate luxury retreat in Lagoa (Algarve region) will feature stylish décor, wellness focus, and lagoon views, perfect for travellers seeking a distinctive, design-forward escape.
(Photo: Vermelho Melides)
Kimpton Quinta da Marinha | Cascais, Portugal
A larger, design-led lifestyle hotel that brings Kimpton’s signature energy to the Cascais coast. With multiple dining venues, indoor and outdoor pools, generous event spaces and a sociable atmosphere, it’s well suited to travellers looking for a vibrant yet relaxed stay just outside Lisbon.
Onyria Quinta da Marinha | Cascais, Portugal
A refined coastal resort set just outside Lisbon in Cascais, offering a relaxed yet elevated escape. Surrounded by nature, the property blends wellness experiences, championship golf and thoughtful leisure facilities, making it ideal for travellers seeking space, calm and understated luxury by the Atlantic.
