Published on
November 4, 2025
Highgate Portugal has solidified its standing as a powerhouse in global hospitality after earning an impressive seventeen honors at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, held in Barcelona on October 25. The achievement marks a defining moment for Portugal’s luxury tourism sector, positioning Highgate-managed properties among the finest in the world for service, design, and wellness innovation.
The World Luxury Awards, encompassing both the World Luxury Hotel Awards and the World Luxury Spa Awards, are widely regarded as one of the industry’s most respected recognitions. Since their establishment in 2006, they have highlighted global leaders who exemplify excellence in guest experience, architectural distinction, gastronomy, and hospitality innovation. Winners are chosen through an extensive international voting process involving travel professionals, guests, and experts, ensuring the results reflect genuine global admiration and credibility.
This year’s edition underscored Highgate Portugal’s remarkable performance, celebrating its properties across the Algarve, Lisbon, and Porto for their world-class service, refined luxury, and unique guest experiences. The group’s ability to merge modern hospitality standards with authentic Portuguese heritage has earned it acclaim both regionally and internationally.
Celebrating Excellence Across Multiple Categories
Highgate Portugal’s triumph at the 2025 World Luxury Awards spanned a wide spectrum of categories in both hospitality and wellness. Each award represented a distinct facet of the group’s excellence—from fine dining and architectural design to holistic wellbeing and family-friendly luxury.
At Hilton Porto Gaia, the in-house Restaurante Cusco impressed global judges with its creative blend of flavors and breathtaking city views, earning titles such as Best Fusion Cuisine in Europe, Best Panoramic Views in Southern Europe, and Best Luxury Bar in a Restaurant in Europe.
Meanwhile, the Algarve Marriott Salgados Golf Resort & Spa secured the prestigious Best Luxury MICE Hotel in Europe award, acknowledging its status as one of Europe’s leading destinations for business events and conventions. Hilton Porto Gaia continued its strong showing with two more distinctions—Best Luxury Hotel & Conference Center in Southern Europe and Best Luxury City Business Hotel in Portugal—highlighting its dual appeal to both business and leisure travelers.
The renowned Cascade Wellness Resort took home Best Luxury Wellbeing Retreat in Portugal and Best Luxury Wellness Retreat in Europe, recognizing its serene coastal setting and holistic wellness approach. Palácio do Governador, a heritage property that blends classical charm with modern sophistication, received the Best Heritage Hotel award, celebrating its architectural preservation and timeless appeal.
Adding to the group’s impressive roster, Kimpton Atlântico Algarve was crowned Best Luxury Lifestyle Hotel in Europe for its chic design and contemporary comfort. The Marriott Residences Salgados Resort claimed two global honors—Global Winner for Luxury Residences and Best Luxury Family Resort in Portugal—acknowledging its family-oriented services and premium amenities.
The Westin Salgados Beach Resort reinforced its reputation with accolades for Best Luxury Wellbeing Retreat and Best Luxury Wellness Resort in Southern Europe, while the Wellness Hub Algarve earned dual honors for Best Luxury Wellness Center in Europe and Best Luxury New Resort Spa in Europe, alongside Best Luxury Beach Resort Spa in Southern Europe.
Strengthening Portugal’s Position in Global Hospitality
Highgate’s success story in Portugal goes beyond individual awards—it reflects the company’s broader strategic vision for elevating the nation’s hospitality landscape. As a global leader in hospitality management, investment, and development, Highgate expanded into Europe by establishing Highgate Portugal, bringing together world-class expertise with the country’s rich tourism potential.
The company’s Portuguese portfolio features fourteen hotels and three golf courses across key destinations such as the Algarve, Lisbon, and Porto. This diverse collection includes properties operating under major international brands like Hilton, Marriott, and IHG, along with prominent independent establishments such as Cascade Wellness Resort and Palácio do Governador.
Through this diverse and dynamic portfolio, Highgate Portugal offers travelers a broad range of experiences—from boutique lifestyle hotels to luxury beachfront resorts, and from wellness retreats to high-capacity conference centers. The company’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability has not only strengthened Portugal’s global tourism reputation but also contributed to the country’s growing recognition as a premier luxury travel destination.
A New Benchmark for Portuguese Hospitality
Highgate Portugal’s sweeping victories at the 2025 World Luxury Awards symbolize more than just industry accolades—they represent a renewed era of confidence and global respect for Portuguese hospitality. Each award acknowledges the dedication, creativity, and innovation that define Highgate’s approach to delivering extraordinary guest experiences.
By blending international expertise with local authenticity, Highgate continues to shape the future of hospitality in Portugal—setting new benchmarks for quality, elegance, and sustainability. With this success, the group not only celebrates its own achievements but also reinforces Portugal’s identity as one of Europe’s most captivating and luxurious travel destinations.
