Portugal, Perfected: Lisbon, Algarve & Madeira

There’s a special kind of glow to Portugal in summer, the tiled terraces, the panoramic sunsets and the salt-soft breeze off the Atlantic.

If you're dreaming of a trip that blends city culture, seaside ease, and island adventure, Kate's recent family journey through Lisbon, Algarve, and Madeira is a blueprint for exactly that. Below, we share where to stay, what to do, and how KJ Travel strings it all together, especially in Madeira, where the magic truly unfolds.

Lisbon: Classic City, Fresh Energy


Where we stayed: Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon
Set high on one of the city's seven hills, the Four Seasons is an urban resort with oversized rooms (most with balconies), a spa and indoor lap pool, and a new outdoor pool and garden terrace that feel like a private club in the middle of the city. From the rooftop, Eduardo VII Park spreads below like a green carpet, with São Jorge Castle perched on the opposite hill, a view that shifts as evening falls. Kate was able to stop by and check the newly renovated rooms as well.

Kate's stay Three nights in Lisbon gave time to settle into the city's rhythm and explore, Kate recommends stopping by one of José Alvarez restaurants, definitely a favorite.

How we’d shape your days

  • Private guiding through Lisbon’s neighborhoods and time in Belém’s monuments, with a hands-on tile-making workshop for a meaningful keepsake (Kate’s family loved bringing home their own pieces).

  • A half-day to Sintra (approx. 40 minutes from town) for palaces and misty hilltops, then back to the hotel for a sunset swim on the new pool terrace.

    Advisor tip: Make sure to check Google Maps, so it can tell you about incline and elevation changes through its "Terrain" view and the elevation profile for walking and cycling directions…Trust us, we've hiked those hills.

Algarve: Sun-Drenched Coast, Lazy-Day Rhythm


Where we stayed: VILA VITA Parc
Perched above the Atlantic in Porches, VILA VITA Parc is a lush, 54-acre cliffside oasis with 12 restaurants (including two-Michelin-star Ocean), a Sisley spa, family-friendly spaces, and direct beach access. It’s classic Algarve, golden sand coves, grottoes and caves, and warm hospitality.

Kate's stay
Three easy, summer-slow days (beach, spa, pool, kids’ club) plus dinners at Whale and Arte Náutica. The highlight: a private catamaran along the Lagos coastline, gliding past the famous golden cliffs and sea grottoes. Kate's family also explored the caves around Carvoeiro.

How we’d shape your days

  • Day at leisure on property (spa, beach, pool repeat).

  • Private catamaran to explore Benagil-area sea caves; swim stops where the water is clearest.

  • Driver-guided outing to whitewashed towns for tiles, ceramics, and gelato on the praça.

Madeira: Adventure, Gardens & Old-World Glamour


Where we stayed: Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel
A legend since 1891, Reid’s sits on a promontory above Funchal with terraced gardens, sea-view pools (including a tidal pool down by the waves), tennis, and the island’s first Michelin-starred dining at William. It’s the grand dame with a playful soul, afternoon tea, sunset cocktails, and front-row views of the Atlantic.

Kate’s stay
Three nights was the sweet spot for a first look at the island. Her family loved the 1891 Bar for sunset petiscos (small savory dish, very similar to spanish tapas) and a proper Porto Tónico, a fun local twist on the classic spritz.

What Madeira looks like when we plan it

Day 1 – Hills & Gardens

  • Gondola to Monte for cinematic island views.

  • Monte Palace Botanical Garden wander with our favorite guide for the best paths and photo angles.

  • Aperitivo at 1891 Bar  on Reid’s terrace

Day 2 – Sea Cliffs by Boat

  • Private boat day along Cabo Girão, among Europe’s highest sea cliffs; swim in glass-clear water that’s often warmer than the Algarve in midsummer (Kate noticed the difference).

  • Fresh  lunch and a lazy sail back toward Funchal as the sun drops.

Day 3 – Levadas, Toboggans & Wine

  • Morning levada walk (scenic irrigation-channel trails) tailored to your pace, then the iconic Carro de Cesto wicker toboggan ride down the steep lanes of Monte, equal parts history and thrill.

  • Madeira flavors: espetada (grilled beef on bay-leaf skewers), bolo do caco (garlic-buttered sweet bread), and a tasting of Madeira’s fortified wines.

Why Reid’s is perfect for families
Garden-level rooms with terraces, multiple pools, kid-approved dining, and space to roam, plus Belmond’s famously warm service. We layer in curated experiences (dolphin/whale-spotting, jeep tours, garden tours) so everyone gets their version of adventure.

Logistics made easy
Fly into Funchal (FNC); it’s a short drive to the hotel. Seasonal nonstop routes from Newark have recently made access even smoother. We handle transfers, boat charters, and dining so your time is pure play.

How We Stitch It Together

Kate’s Portugal flow—Algarve - Lisbon - Madeira—works beautifully for families: start with beach-day ease, shift to city culture, and end on an island high note. On her trip we reserved VILA VITA Parc for three nights, then Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon for three, and finally Reid’s Palace for three—an elegant cadence that balances rest and discovery.

VIP treatment
As a KJ Travel client, you’ll receive our preferred-partner perks (think: upgrades when available, daily breakfast, resort credits, welcome amenities) and priority wait-lists at in-demand restaurants and kids’ clubs. At these properties, those little advantages add up to a noticeably smoother stay.

Are you ready to visit Portugal?

Tell us what you want this trip to be: Easy, adventurous, celebratory? KJT advisors will design the version that fits you best. Click here to fill out our form and let's start planning today!

Lenni's Luxury Ireland Adventure: Castles, Coastlines & Comfort

Ireland's misty coastlines, ancient castles, and rich culture made a lasting impression on Lenni. For travelers who value natural beauty and refined comfort, the Emerald Isle delivers a personal and memorable experience. From historic estates to dramatic landscapes, here’s how she explored Ireland in style.

Castlemartyr

Lenni's luxury Ireland adventure began at Castlemartyr, a quiet village in County Cork, about 30 kilometers from the city. Its roots run deep—centuries back to when the Knights Templar built a castle here in the 13th century. Later, an 18th-century manor rose nearby, now part of a luxury resort. Surrounded by farmland and the Kiltha River, Castlemartyr blends history, landscape, and quiet charm without trying too hard.

The resort itself is polished and well-executed. Rooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, with a rare-for-Ireland feature: a fully enclosed private toilet area in the bathrooms. The welcome amenity stands out—local snacks, a personalized mug, and a piece of Irish art that feels intentional. Afternoon tea is well done and worth booking in advance.

On-property highlights include a two Michelin-starred restaurant (Terre), a golf course, a spa, and access to scenic walking paths. Service was consistently excellent across touchpoints. The only challenge is its location—Castlemartyr feels a bit out of the way for typical Dublin/Shannon itineraries, so it may require a more tailored route.

If you're interested in food, golf, or whiskey. This place is a great fit for your next Ireland adventure. The Midleton Distillery is nearby, and Kinsale, a charming seaside town with restaurants and shops, is just 30 minutes away.

Sheen falls

Lenni's next stop is Sheen falls. Set along a tranquil stretch of river just outside the town of Kenmare, Sheen Falls Lodge blends relaxed luxury with natural beauty. As a Relais & Châteaux property, it offers refined service in a peaceful, scenic setting—ideal for travelers wanting to explore the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula while staying somewhere quieter than Killarney.

The location is a major highlight—guests can walk into Kenmare to explore shops and restaurants or simply enjoy the serene views from the property itself. Activities like falconry, horseback riding, tennis, and boathouse yoga offer plenty to do without leaving the grounds. 

Lenni chartered a private helicopter ride along the coast, getting a bird’s-eye view of the ring of Kerry, Skellig islands, crashing surf, and lush green cliffs. An unforgettable experience and definitely one of Lenni's favorites.

For those looking for more space, the private villas are a great choice for families or small groups—offering shared common areas and extra privacy while staying connected to the main lodge amenities.

Lenni thinks couples, families, or small groups looking for a relaxed yet luxurious base to explore the Ring of Kerry, Beara, or Dingle Peninsula, would love it here! Kenmare offers great access to the region without the crowds of more touristed areas.

Ballyfin

Just an hour from Dublin, Ballyfin offered Lenni a pause in time. This retreat nestled beside a man-made lake, is known for its polished serenity and immersive experience. With only 23 rooms, it feels more like a private estate than a hotel.

Lenni's mornings included clay pigeon shooting and long walks through the estate’s gardens, while evenings were reserved for tasting menus in a candlelit dining room. One standout moment? A lakeside aperitif at golden hour.

Lenni’s Tip: Two nights felt just right—long enough to unwind without overindulging in six-course dinners every night.

Dromoland Castle

Lenni’s stay at Dromoland Castle offered a practical and well-positioned stop near the Cliffs of Moher and links courses like Trump Doonbeg. Her executive corner room in the mansion had been recently renovated—spacious and comfortable, with views of both the castle grounds and golf course. 

Thoughtful in-room amenities added a nice touch, including a spa kit with natural Irish products, teas, and seaweed for a traditional soak, plus wine, chocolates, and cake as a welcome. On property, guests can choose between fine dining (also the breakfast venue) or a more casual bar/lounge, where live Irish music—harp, cello, and vocalists—adds atmosphere in the evenings.

Dromoland works well for travelers seeking a castle stay close to key western Ireland sights, especially those flying in or out of Shannon or looking to combine cultural charm with convenience.

Adare Manor 

Next, Lenni headed to Adare Manor, a neo-Gothic estate set on 840 acres of parkland in County Limerick that feels straight out of a fantasy. Adare Manor is a true five-star retreat. Just a short drive from Shannon Airport, it offers a seamless departure experience, including U.S. customs preclearance.

Plan to stay a minimum of three nights, with two full days dedicated entirely to the property. On arrival, unwind with a walk through the grounds and dinner at one of the manor’s restaurants. The following day can be as active or relaxed as you'd like: play a round of golf (set to host the Ryder Cup in 2027), try padel or a swim, then dive into on-site experiences like falconry, gun dog demonstrations, or a horse and carriage ride. On the final day, explore the nearby village, visit the spa, stroll the estate trails, or sample the chocolate shop before a final dinner in town or on property.

Lenni recommends: If visiting the Cliffs of Moher is in your itinerary, consider visiting on your way in or out—leaving your time at Adare fully open to enjoy.

The Westbury - Dublin

Lenni wraps her trip in Westbury located near Dublin’s top shopping streets and just steps from the designer mall, The Westbury offers convenience and charm in the heart of the city. The lobby lounge serves food throughout the day and hosts a classic afternoon tea, while The Sidecar bar has a lively but intimate vibe—ideal for couples or small groups.

Rooms are on the smaller side, and the gym is minimal, with no spa on site. For travelers who prioritize wellness amenities, The Shelbourne or The Merrion are stronger options. Both have full-service spas and gyms—The Shelbourne, in particular, offers a private membership model similar to Maybourne’s. Its location along St. Stephen’s Green also adds a bonus: easy park strolls on clear days and a cozy spa escape when Dublin’s weather turns.

Lenni’s Irish adventure proves that Ireland luxury travel isn’t just about where you go—but how you experience it. Whether sipping tea in a manor house or flying over Skellig Michael, every moment is one to remember.

Inspired by Lenni’s journey?

Click here to book your own Irish adventure today.