Hilton Expands in Portugal with Three New Hotels by 2026

Hilton Expands in Portugal with Three New Hotels by 2026

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on August 9, 2024

Hilton has announced plans to further expand its presence in Portugal with the opening of three new hotels by 2026. These properties will be introduced under the Canopy by Hilton, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, and DoubleTree by Hilton brands, reinforcing Hilton's commitment to growing its portfolio in Southern Europe.

Patrick Fitzgibbon, Hilton's Senior Vice President for Development in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, highlighted the attractiveness of Portugal's hotel investment market, noting the country's record-breaking tourist numbers. “We’re thrilled to have signed three new properties across three of our world-class brands, further expanding our Portuguese portfolio of more than 20 hotels trading and in our pipeline,” Fitzgibbon said.

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DoubleTree by Hilton Lisbon Airport

The Canopy by Hilton Vilamoura Marina, set to open in 2026, will offer a boutique hotel experience in the heart of Marina Vilamoura, just 500 meters from Praia da Vilamoura. The 155-room property, developed through a franchise agreement with Arrow Global Group, will feature amenities including a restaurant, bar, spa, outdoor pool, and fitness center.

Francisco Moser, CEO of Hospitality at Details Hospitality, Sports & Leisure, part of Arrow Global, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We’re thrilled to be announcing Canopy by Hilton Vilamoura Marina. The Algarve received more than five million visitors last year, and there continues to be significant demand for high quality accommodation in the region. Complimenting the nearby Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa, the hotel will be an exciting new lifestyle option in this key tourist destination, providing a locally inspired and welcoming stay.”

Another addition to Hilton’s Portuguese portfolio is the Santo André Beach Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, slated to open in 2025. This hotel will be Hilton’s first property in the Santiago do Cacém area, known for its beautiful beaches and natural landscapes. Developed through a franchise agreement with Mercan Properties Group, the hotel will feature 44 guest rooms, a restaurant, bar, gym, and a rooftop pool with sea views. Its location, just 200 meters from the Santo Andre and Sancha Lagoons Natural Reserve and 500 meters from Santo André Beach, makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

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Santo André Beach Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Also scheduled for a 2025 opening is the DoubleTree by Hilton Lisbon Airport, located just five minutes from Lisbon's bustling airport. This hotel will offer 199 guest rooms and 20 suites, providing convenience for both business and leisure travelers. Guests can expect amenities such as a restaurant, bar, fitness room, and extensive conference facilities. The hotel will also feature the signature warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie upon arrival, a hallmark of the brand’s hospitality.

Jordi Vilanova, President of Mercan Properties Portugal, highlighted the positive impact these projects will have on the local community, stating, “Having also recently announced the stunning Hilton Alvor, these signings mark the continued expansion of our portfolio with Hilton across Portugal, under multiple brands. Importantly, these projects will benefit the travellers visiting them and the communities in which they operate within. Indeed, we expect that these three properties will create approximately 325 jobs, providing a meaningful contribution to local employment and investment in Portugal.”

These new Hilton properties will also offer benefits through the Hilton Honors loyalty program, allowing members to earn points and access exclusive rewards during their stays.


The Leela Gandhinagar Introduces E-Cycle Experience to Promote Sustainable Luxury

The Leela Gandhinagar Introduces E-Cycle Experience to Promote Sustainable Luxury

By Hariharan U

Published on April 26, 2026

Marking Earth Day, The Leela Gandhinagar has introduced an immersive e-cycle experience in collaboration with Svitch, reinforcing its focus on sustainability-led luxury.

The initiative is designed to offer guests a low-impact, mindful way to explore Gandhinagar, encouraging slower, more conscious travel while reducing carbon footprint. By integrating eco-friendly mobility into the guest journey, the hotel continues to position sustainability as a core element of its hospitality experience.

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Set against the city’s serene surroundings, the e-cycle experience allows guests to engage more deeply with their environment, blending wellbeing, exploration, and environmental responsibility. The offering reflects a broader shift in luxury travel, where guests are increasingly seeking experiences that are both meaningful and sustainable.

Commenting on the initiative, Vikas Sood, General Manager, highlighted the hotel’s commitment to creating experiences that are enriching while embedding responsible practices into everyday operations.

The launch was complemented by an Earth Day cyclethon, bringing together guests, hotel associates, and members of the local community. The activity aimed to foster a shared sense of responsibility towards sustainable living, while encouraging active participation in eco-conscious initiatives.

Following the ride, guests experienced the hotel’s signature Aujasya breakfast, aligning the sustainability narrative with wellness-focused dining.

Through initiatives like this, The Leela Gandhinagar continues to evolve the concept of responsible luxury, where sustainability is seamlessly integrated into the guest experience, enhancing both comfort and awareness.


WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa Elevates Luxury Escapes in Kasauli

WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa Elevates Luxury Escapes in Kasauli

By Hariharan U

Published on April 25, 2026

WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa is redefining luxury getaways in the hills with its expansive offering set amidst the scenic Kasauli Hills.

Perched in the lush Shivalik range, the resort blends natural beauty with refined hospitality, offering guests a tranquil escape marked by panoramic views, fresh mountain air, and a thoughtfully curated luxury experience. Designed as a sanctuary for relaxation, the property combines modern amenities with a serene setting that encourages guests to unwind at a leisurely pace.

Operated under the WelcomHeritage umbrella since December 2022, the resort has positioned itself as a full-scale five-star destination in Solan. With 93 well-appointed rooms, the property caters to a wide range of travellers, offering accommodation options that include deluxe rooms, suites, family-friendly cottages, and an exclusive four-bedroom luxury villa.

The resort is equipped with a comprehensive range of amenities, including a luxury spa and salon, wellness centre, and an all-weather heated indoor swimming pool, along with a dedicated children’s pool. These features ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for guests across seasons.

Beyond leisure stays, the property has also emerged as a preferred venue for destination weddings, corporate conferences, and large-scale events, supported by its expansive layout and premium infrastructure.

The design philosophy strikes a balance between modern sophistication and timeless charm, creating a space that feels both elegant and inviting. From intimate vacations to grand celebrations, the resort offers an environment that blends comfort with understated luxury.

With its scenic location, comprehensive facilities, and focus on guest experience, WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa stands out as a premier mountain retreat, offering travellers a refined escape in the hills.


IHCL Partners with Etihad Guest to Expand Global Loyalty Benefits

IHCL Partners with Etihad Guest to Expand Global Loyalty Benefits

By Hariharan U

Published on April 25, 2026

Indian Hotels Company Limited has announced a strategic partnership between its loyalty platform Taj InnerCircle-Neupass and Etihad Guest, expanding global benefits for travellers.

The collaboration brings together two established loyalty ecosystems, enabling members to access enhanced travel and stay privileges across participating hotels worldwide. As part of the alliance, Etihad Guest members can enjoy exclusive savings at IHCL properties and earn miles on hotel stays.

The benefits extend across IHCL’s diverse portfolio, including brands such as Taj Hotels, SeleQtions, Vivanta, Gateway, amã Stays & Trails, and Claridges Collection.

Commenting on the partnership, Praveen Chander Kumar, Executive Vice President – Commercial, IHCL, noted that as travel becomes increasingly seamless, guests are seeking familiarity and added value across destinations. He highlighted that the collaboration will allow IHCL to engage with a broader global member base while enhancing the overall loyalty experience.

From the aviation side, Etihad Airways strengthens its ecosystem by extending benefits beyond flights. Mark Potter, Managing Director, Etihad Guest, stated that the partnership enhances value for members by offering more opportunities to earn and redeem miles across a wider travel network.

The alliance reflects a growing trend in the travel and hospitality industry, where integrated loyalty ecosystems are becoming key to delivering seamless, personalised experiences. By combining hospitality and aviation rewards, the partnership aims to create a more connected journey for global travellers.

With this collaboration, IHCL and Etihad Guest are set to broaden their global reach, offering members a more rewarding and cohesive travel experience across destinations

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