Portugal has become a global favourite for family holidays — and few brands embody why as well as Martinhal. Founded by Chitra and Roman Stern, this luxury-family hospitality group has reimagined what it means to travel with children (or as part of a mixed family unit), blending design, comfort, service, and a deep respect for nature and local culture.
Origins & Philosophy
Sustainability has been central from early on — not an afterthought. When building Sagres, master-planning considered the natural setting carefully; subsequently, Martinhal has integrated sustainable practices across its properties.
The first Martinhal resort, Martinhal Sagres Family Beach Resort, opened in 2010 in the western Algarve, on the ruggedly beautiful southwestern tip of Portugal.
From the beginning, the Sterns aimed to address what they saw as gaps in luxury hospitality for families: services, facilities, and environments that are both high-end and genuinely family-friendly in design. That means thinking through details like baby-friendly gear, play spaces, inspiring yet safe architecture, and appeal for multiple generations.
Key Locations & What Makes Each Special
Here are the main Martinhal properties across Portugal and what they offer:
| Property | Location / Region | Distinctives & Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Martinhal Sagres Family Beach Resort | Western Algarve | The pioneering property. It combines beach access, ocean views, nature, and tranquility with luxury. Offers multiple villa, house, and apartment-style accommodations; extensive family-oriented amenities (kids’ clubs, playgrounds, dining for all ages); indoor & outdoor pools; spa; and lots of space. |
| Martinhal Quinta do Lago Family Golf Resort | Algarve | Villas with private pools in the prestigious Quinta do Lago area. Ideal for families who want resort feel but with privacy and luxury. |
| Martinhal Chiado | Lisbon, historic city centre | Luxury serviced apartments (studio through two-bedroom) in a beautifully restored building, combining urban life, culture, food, and city walks with family-friendly services. Great for exploring Lisbon while having home-like conveniences. |
| Martinhal Oriente / Martinhal Residences (Park of Nations, Lisbon) | Lisbon (Park of Nations area) | More recent expansion. Offers luxury apartments/residences, suited for longer stays, families relocating, digital nomads. Close to amenities, parks, riverfront, and urban infrastructure. Also the base for the United Lisbon International School. |
What Makes Martinhal Stand Out
Several factors set Martinhal apart in the luxury family-resort segment:
- Thoughtful family-focused design and service
It’s not just “kids are welcome” — the whole experience is built around families. Babysitting, a baby concierge (equipment, gear, etc.), age-appropriate activity programmes; rooms and public spaces designed so parents can relax while kids are happily occupied. - Flexibility of accommodation types
Depending on your needs, you can stay in full villas, family houses, trendy serviced apartments, or hotel rooms. Long stays and short breaks are both well catered for. - Mix of nature, luxury, and location
Whether by the sea (Sagres, Algarve), in scenic countryside, or in city settings (Lisbon), Martinhal properties tend to balance the natural environment (views, open space, landscape) with comfort and style. - Sustainability & local integration
From early master planning through to ongoing practices, Martinhal emphasizes environmental responsibility. Also, the use of local culture, gastronomy, and community in their offerings. - Extensions beyond hotels — residences & education
They have branched out into branded residences (particularly in Lisbon), and founded United Lisbon International School. This turns Martinhal from a holiday brand into something more of a lifestyle ecosystem for families.
