Cycas Hospitality has announced its first signing in Portugal, a resort-style hotel development under Marriott International’s Autograph Collection in Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Lisbon. This marks Cycas Hospitality’s entry into the Iberian Peninsula, expanding its presence in Southern Europe to over 55 hotels across 13 European countries.
The hotel is being developed as a joint venture between Patron Capital and operating partner Quest Capital, who have appointed Cycas Hospitality to manage the property. Slated to open in summer 2026, the design incorporates 15 distinct buildings offering up to 260 guests across rooms, suites, and villas, including a signature sea-view wedding suite.
The development will repurpose the former site of Companhia União Fabril (CUF)’s employee holiday complex, preserving classic design elements and honoring the original vision of architect António Lino. The hotel’s design will emphasize the region’s unique landscape—sea, forest, and land—with a wellness concept including sun terraces, landscaped gardens, indoor and outdoor pools, designed to provide guests with a restorative experience. Modern contemporary design elements will complement the classic architecture, and guests will have multiple dining options, including a private dining space, a morning terrace, and an on-site restaurant.
The property’s luxurious suites, elegant reception areas (both indoor and outdoor), and panoramic views will cater to weddings and special events. Wiktor Lesinski, Investment Director & Partner at Patron Capital, stated their shared vision is to create a landmark destination in Sintra. He noted Portugal as a key market for Patron Capital since 2015, citing attractive investment opportunities in the hospitality sector, and this project represents their first hospitality venture in the country.
Carlos Vasconcellos and Cristóbal de Castro at Quest Capital added that their vision is to create a destination that showcases the beauty and spirit of Portugal while delivering an exceptional guest experience. They emphasized that collaborating with Cycas Hospitality aligns with their goal of bringing a world-class hotel to the region.
Philip Steiner, Chief Operating Officer at Cycas Hospitality, expressed excitement in bringing their hospitality expertise to Portugal. He highlighted this signing as a milestone in their European expansion within the Iberian Peninsula, collaborating with Marriott International. The Autograph Collection features over 290 hotels globally, each representing the unique vision of its founder. This new property will join Cycas’s portfolio of Marriott International hotels in Europe, alongside properties like Autograph London Bankside and the Moxy Paris Clamart.
Gianleo Bosticco, Vice President – Development, Southern Europe, Marriott International, stated that the Autograph Collection celebrates individuality and they are looking forward to working with Patron and Cycas Hospitality to bring the brand’s distinct approach to design and hospitality to Sintra. He confirmed Portugal’s popularity as a travel destination and ongoing demand for Marriott’s brands within the country.
