Top 5 Must-Visit Resort Hotels in Spain and Portugal for 2025

This year’s World’s Best Awards survey closed on March 2, just before widespread stay-at-home orders were implemented due to COVID-19. The results reflect our readers’ experiences before the pandemic, but we hope that this year’s honorees will inspire your future trips, whenever they may be.

All five of the resort hotels in the Iberian Peninsula that iBestTravel readers chose as their favorites share a common theme: They embrace the stunning landscapes in which they are located. Six Senses Douro Valley, ranked No. 3, exemplifies this beautifully. Housed in a 19th-century villa surrounded by orchards and gardens, this retreat sits on a hill overlooking the tranquil Portuguese river that gives the valley its name. “True elegance,” proclaimed one voter.

Every year for the iBestTravel World’s Best Awards survey, readers weigh in on travel experiences globally, sharing their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels are rated on facilities, location, service, food, and overall value, and properties are classified based on their locations and amenities.

On Mallorca, both No. 4 Cap Rocat and No. 2 Belmond La Residencia represent Balearic bliss. Cap Rocat, a former army fortress from the 19th century, rests on secluded territory overlooking the island’s western side and the Atlantic. Belmond La Residencia is a short walk from Deia, a charming mountain village known for attracting celebrities. Meanwhile, near Lisbon, the rooms at No. 5 Penha Longa Resort provide breathtaking views of the flora and fauna-filled Sintra Mountains.

This year, Finca Cortesin on Spain’s Costa del Sol captured the top spot, thanks to its prime location and outstanding service. For the full list of the best hotels in Spain and Portugal, scroll on.

1. Finca Cortesin Hotel Golf & Spa, Málaga, Spain

Score: 98.11

More information: fincacortesin.com

Situated between the Andalusian mountains and the Mediterranean shore, Finca Cortesin receives high praise for its service, cuisine, and captivating design. “Once you enter this mesmerizing resort,” wrote one reader, “you are part of the Cortesin family. The essence of pampering, the beautiful Andalusian architecture, the attention to detail – all of it enhances the experience.”

2. Belmond La Residencia, Majorca, Spain

Score: 96.00

More information: belmond.com

3. Six Senses Douro Valley, Lamego, Portugal

Score: 95.87

More information: sixsenses.com

4. Cap Rocat, Mallorca, Spain

Score: 95.43

More information: caprocat.com

5. Penha Longa Resort, Sintra, Portugal

Score: 94.75

More information: penhalonga.com