I sat down with Director of Quality and Sustainability Sandra Teixeira and COO Oriol Juvé de Yebra from Sublime Curated Hospitality to talk about how you manage to create a small empire in the middle of sand and pines, while staying loyal to its ecosystem and even nurture it.

It was only a decade ago when Gonçalo Pessoa left Cascais to create a design in Comporta where hospitality could live in a slowed down pace while offering a quality experience. With only a few rooms in a villa it has since turned into Sublime Comporta – the flagship of Sublime Curated Hospitality – and put Comporta on the world map as one of the hottest luxury destinations in Europe at the moment.

Building with, not on, nature

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The philosophy seems clear when you visit the stunning area. Originally set across 17 hectares, the estate now extends an additional 50 hectares. Yet, you can barely see the large premises on Google Maps’ satellite photos. It has remained low density and carefully integrated in the surrounding pine forest. The critical fire prevention regulations have been upheld – and more than 70.000 plants have been planted over the years – not as a constraint but as a part of Sublime Curated Hospitality’s eco-strategy.

The same goes for the energy consumption. With 180 solar panels generating 450 kWh, installed by august 2026, Sublime will cover approximately 80% of its energy consumption through renewable sources significantly reducing its operational footprint without compromising guest experience.

Social sustainability in practice

Across its 10 restaurants, seven of them onsite, the group prioritizes local suppliers as a part of their philosophy. Long term relationships stimulate the local economic growth, something that it important in terms of ensuring community development too.

Operating in an area with limited infrastructure presents challenges, particularly in staffing. Housing shortages with high rental prices and scarce public transport made it evident that Sublime had to address this challenge directly. The group provides accommodation for a significant portion of its staff for a symbolic amount, and offers transfers between Grândola and Setúbal via electric vans. These logistical solutions are essential to maintaining a stable workforce with sustainable work conditions while reducing environmental impact.

Today, the group employs over 500 people. A number that is growing. Environment responsibility is embedded into daily operations, with staff training programs reinforcing responsible practices – and beach cleanings in the surrounding areas of Sublime’s coastal restaurant Sublime Comporta Beach Club.

Growing with the community

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The vision of sustainability also soon includes a new funding program as a part of their social investment. The new program will allow local residents to apply for support for projects, whether it is training in sustainable farming or community services such as daycare facilities. This program reflects a broader belief that long term success depends on the wellbeing of the surrounding community.

Expanding the experience

Sublime Curated Hospitality is currently exploring new ways to connect guests with the region, including sailing experiences on the Sado River, expanded staff housing and better and more ecofriendly options for golf enthusiasts - as well as tailored guest offerings – such a family friendly or adults-only zones.

With their new motto Grounded Luxury, you will find a relaxed atmosphere with approachable staff and a no-nonsense approach to hospitality, while offering a five-star experience.

Sublime Curated Hospitality contains of Sublime Comporta Sand & Terracota, Sublime Lisboa, Sublime BeachClub, Sado, Jacaré da Comporta, Davvero Restaurant, Canalha, BeefBar, Aqua, Sublime Home and Sublime Atelier.

https://www.sublimehotels.pt/en/