After being gifted a stay at Hotel Martinhal in Lisbon, LGBTQ+ activist Ranae von Meding takes us on a trip to Portugal, visiting some of the most queer family-friendly spots in the world.

Portugal, as a destination, is one of the most queer family-friendly places we’ve ever been to. In fact, we chose Portugal as the destination for much of our fertility treatment journey and have been back countless times over the years.

Late last year, I had the opportunity to visit Lisbon with my two oldest girls and some of our extended family. We were invited to return to one of the premier family destinations in Portugal, Martinhal. We’d previously stayed at their Sagres beach resort and so were really excited to try their Lisbon city location at Oriente.

Martinhal is an incredibly family-friendly hotel. In fact, it was created with families in mind, and they put families centre stage, in a way few other hotels do. Set just beside the Park of Nations, this 5-star resort offers every amenity you need with every luxury you could ask for! It was designed by Portuguese architect Eduardo Capinha Lopes, and the building boasts vast expanses of glass, with greenery woven throughout the design.

We didn’t rent a car for this trip, and you certainly don’t need to, with taxis everywhere at very reasonable prices. For example, a trip from the airport to Martinhal was less than €20 for all 5 of us. On that note, the resort is only a short ride from the airport, and so it is an ideal location for a shorter city break in one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal.

On the subject of travel, I definitely recommend booking a suitcase separately. I don’t care what the airlines try to tell you, it definitely works out cheaper to add on a suitcase rather than to pay for the more expensive flight option. Trust me on this one.

The facilities at Martinhal Oriente are truly impressive. There are two swimming pools: one indoor and heated, the other outside (with the added bonus of in-ground trampolines to play on before you jump in for a swim). The gym, which opens out into the garden, has the latest Technogym equipment.

The kids’ area is set just beside the gym with plenty of space for older children, where Lego or board games can be played, plus a pool table, PlayStation 5, computers and a reading nook. There is also a babysitting service and a baby concierge (who provides baby equipment, from bathroom steps to high chairs and pots). There is truly everything you need for families here, and yet again, Martinhal stays true to its roots, of putting families at the heart of everything they do

All of the rooms are apartments, and are designed to support both short and long stays. From the studio apartments to the larger and more premium four-bed apartments, they are all spacious and well-equipped. The kitchens have Smeg appliances, fridges, dishwashers, washers/dryers, microwaves, coffee machines and more.

Bathrooms in the Studios come with showers, while the bigger apartments have bathtubs as well. Both come with Voya amenities. Our two-bed apartment had a spectacular view of the stunning vertical garden installed behind the swimming pool.

All-day food is available at the Terrace Café Bar Restaurant, a fusion of Portuguese and Asian dining (perhaps this is where the ‘Oriente’ comes from), and we truly loved every single thing we ordered throughout our stay. Breakfast is both buffet and à la carte, with every food you could want. There were plenty of options for veggies like me, as well as lots for the picky eaters in the group!

The hotel is classy and luxurious, yet not so much so that you would feel uncomfortable with your kids running around. The level of customer service at all Martinhal locations we’ve stayed at was excellent, and it was no different at the Oriente. From the moment we checked in to when we left, the service and staff were second to none, with everyone genuinely wanting us to have a relaxing stay.

The Martinhal Lisbon Oriente also features a spa on one of the top floors, which we took advantage of on our final day. There are breathtaking panoramic views of the Tagus River! While we enjoyed a luxurious massage, the girls went to the kids club for a couple of hours to hang out, and they had a ball. Win-win.

Other Activities

Portugal is full of queer family-friendly hotspots. There is so much to do in Lisbon and in particular around the area where Martinhal Oriente is located. While the hotel has everything you need, if you feel like you want to get out and explore, you’ll have no shortage of options. Many attractions are within walking distance, and others are easily accessible by taxi.

Lisbon Oceanarium
The Oceanarium is one of Lisbon’s most popular spots and is only minutes away from Martinhal Oriente. It’s a must-see for any marine enthusiasts, and I’d definitely recommend prebooking your ticket to avoid the queues. You can add on a ticket to the famous Cable Car after your visit to the aquarium, and I’d definitely do this, as it was a highlight for all of us.

LX Markets
The LX market is a beautiful spot and an absolute must-do for your list. Filled to the brim with restaurants, art galleries, book stores, vintage shops and so much more, it’s a beautiful place to enjoy live music, visit bars, and support small businesses. If you do one thing while you are here, go to Landeau Chocolate and eat ALL the cake. You can thank me later!

Pena Palace at Sintra
We travelled to Sintra and Pena Palace on our final day in Lisbon, and it was a truly magical experience. The views from the top of the castle are out of this world. The bright yellow castle is a stunning expression of 19th-century Romanticism, and this whimsical palace allows the most incredible views. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Lisbon, and Sintra will not disappoint with so many hidden gems, all set amidst lush forests and jagged hills.

All in all, I’d highly recommend a visit to Portugal for a queer family-friendly holiday. It’s a place where we felt entirely welcomed and comfortable at all times. And my top travel tip of all time with children… Bring a couple of older cousins to entertain them. Absolutely priceless. 

Check our Martinhal Oriente here.

Follow Ranae on Instagram at @ranaevonmeding for more LGBTQ+ family travel and tips.