The Estoril Protocol

The Estoril Protocol

An International Historical Espionage Larp

Between fancy hotels, the casino and the ocean, kings without kingdoms, spies without names and refugees without a future gather beneath the chandeliers of a grand hotel. In neutral Portugal, diplomats, spies, refugees and exiled aristocrats gather to discuss the future of Europe while war rages beyond the border.

In a world built on secrets, neutrality is the most dangerous lie of all.


Registration

The Estoril Protocol requires a minimum number of participants to ensure the quality, sustainability and intended scale of the experience. Confirmation is therefore subject to reaching the minimum attendance threshold. If the event does not reach the required number of participants, registered players will be offered the opportunity to receive a full refund.

Flexible payment plans will be available, allowing participants to spread the cost across several instalments.

Participants who have already completed their pre-registration will shortly receive an email with payment instructions, allowing them to confirm their place.

The Estoril Protocol

13–14 March 2027


Atmosphere & Setting

Across the continent, Europe is burning. Armies advance, borders vanish overnight, and the City of Light has fallen into shadow. Yet, on the western edge of the continent, beneath the Atlantic sun, Portugal remains neutral and remains a fragile mirage of peace.

In the cafés of Lisbon, Cascais and Estoril, journalists trade rumours over coffee. In the grand hotels along the coast, exiled royalty dine beside industrialists, diplomats and fugitives. Refugees wait for visas that may never arrive. Intelligence officers watch one another from across crowded hotel lobbies. Fortunes are won and lost in a single evening.

The Estoril Protocol is an immersive experience where diplomacy, private ambition, and clandestine operations converge. You are not a hero. You are a person caught in the machinery of history, where every arrival carries a secret and every departure leaves a question unanswered.

Inspired by the extraordinary reality of wartime Portugal, our LARP explores themes of espionage, neutrality, exile, survival and moral compromise. The Estoril Protocol takes place in a world balanced between war and peace, certainty and deception. A world where official diplomacy, private ambition and clandestine operations overlap beneath a veneer of elegance and civility.

This is a story of divided loyalties and survival. Just like the guests described in the chronicles of the time, the diplomats, the gamblers, the aristocrats in exile, and the shadows stalking the corridors, you will have to navigate a world where a misplaced word can change the fate of a nation.

This is not a story of heroes and villains. It is a story of people caught in history. And history is about to knock on the door.


The Story

Europe is engulfed in war.

Across the continent, ancient kingdoms collapse beneath the weight of invasion, governments abandon their capitals and entire populations are forced onto uncertain roads leading towards exile. Every passing week redraws the map of Europe, while neutrality becomes an increasingly fragile illusion. Yet, beyond the reach of the front lines, on the Atlantic coast of Portugal, the grand halls of the Palácio Hotel in Estoril remain illuminated.

Among the last independent neutral states in Europe stand the Principality of Montblanc and the Republic of Noirval. For generations, the two neighbouring nations have disputed sovereignty over a small border territory whose strategic importance far exceeds its size. What once appeared to be a local disagreement has gradually evolved into a diplomatic crisis. Trade routes, financial interests and political balances now depend upon a conflict that neither nation can afford to escalate, yet neither is willing to abandon.

Should negotiations fail, the consequences would reach far beyond the borders of Montblanc and Noirval. At a time when Europe stands on the edge of collapse, even the smallest spark could alter the fragile equilibrium that still prevents the war from spreading in unpredictable directions.

In a final attempt to avoid catastrophe, a discreet conference has been arranged under the protection of Portugal’s neutrality.

The invitations have been issued by two enigmatic benefactors known only as Mr. Black and Mr. Branco, directors of the Palácio Hotel and respected figures whose influence extends well beyond the walls of their establishment. Officially, they act merely as hosts. Unofficially, no one can explain how they persuaded so many extraordinary individuals to gather beneath the same roof.

Kings without kingdoms arrive carrying titles that no longer command obedience. Diplomats represent governments whose authority weakens by the day. Refugees carry little more than passports and fading hopes. Journalists chase rumours, industrialists protect fortunes, while scientists and artists safeguard ideas that may one day reshape the world. Here, history is not written on the battlefield, but across dinner tables, in hotel corridors and behind carefully closed doors.

Every guest arrives with a different purpose. Some hope to restore the Europe that once was. Some struggle to preserve what still survives. Others believe the old world has already vanished, and that only a new one deserves to be built.

The official purpose of the conference is clear enough: to negotiate peace between Montblanc and Noirval. Yet every participant understands that far more than a border dispute is at stake.

Some whisper that the meeting will redefine neutrality itself. Others believe it conceals secret financial agreements, dynastic negotiations or plans for a new political order once the war finally ends. Rumours spread through the corridors more quickly than facts, and every conversation seems to conceal another layer of truth.

No government officially acknowledges the meeting.

No nation has claimed responsibility for organising it.

Officially, it does not exist.

Unofficially, those few who know of it simply call it…

The Estoril Protocol

As negotiations unfold, three competing visions of Europe’s future begin to emerge.

The Monarchs believe the old order can still be restored. They dream of returning home, reclaiming lost titles and rebuilding a continent founded upon tradition, legitimacy and continuity.

The Diplomats seek to preserve what remains. They understand that compromise is imperfect, yet believe stability is preferable to chaos, and that neutrality may be Europe’s final safeguard against total collapse.

The Exiles no longer believe in the world that existed before the war. Having lost homes, families and sometimes entire countries, they look not towards the past, but towards a future yet to be imagined.

Meanwhile, the Staff quietly observes everything. Doors are opened. Letters are delivered. Rooms are prepared. Conversations are overheard. In a place where discretion is expected, information becomes the most valuable currency of all.

Beyond them all stand the Benefactors, whose true motives remain known only to themselves. Guardians of the hotel and custodians of the conference, they ensure that dialogue continues, whatever form it may take.

The Protocol itself has not yet been written.

Only an empty leather folder rests upon the conference table, waiting for history to decide its contents.

Over the course of two days, alliances will be forged, betrayals uncovered and impossible compromises attempted. Every promise made, every secret revealed and every decision taken will leave its mark upon those blank pages.

By the end of the conference, the Protocol may bear dozens of signatures… or none at all.

It may unite old enemies or divide old friends.

It may be celebrated, forgotten, stolen or destroyed before history ever learns of its existence.


Inspirations


Themes

At the edge of a continent at war, Portugal became a crossroads for people with nowhere else to go. Diplomats, refugees, aristocrats, journalists, intelligence officers and opportunists found themselves sharing the same hotels, cafés and railway stations while the future of Europe remained uncertain.

The Estoril Protocol explores a world built on ambiguity. A world where neutrality is both a refuge and a political weapon, where every conversation may conceal hidden motives, and where personal survival often matters more than ideology. The game focuses on human relationships, difficult choices, divided loyalties and the fragile balance between public duty and private desire.

Against the backdrop of wartime Portugal, players will navigate a society suspended between peace and catastrophe, asking a simple question: when history arrives at your doorstep, what are you willing to sacrifice?


What is a LARP?

You will take on the role of a unique character, with their own history, ambitions, relationships and secrets, and experience the story alongside the other participants. Every conversation, alliance and decision may influence what happens next.

During The Estoril Protocol, the historic rooms of the Palácio Estoril Hotel will become a living world of diplomacy, espionage and divided loyalties. For two days, you will share meals, negotiate agreements, exchange secrets and shape the fate of a conference whose ending has not yet been written.

No previous LARP or acting experience is required. You do not need to perform or memorise lines: workshops, character materials and our organising team will guide you into the experience. All you need is curiosity, openness and a willingness to create a story together.


Characters

“Yesterday belongs to us. The old world is not dead. It is simply waiting for our return.” 

Deposed royalty, aristocrats, industrialists and members of Europe’s fading elites.

For the Monarchs, the war is an aberration. A temporary disruption of a natural order that, sooner or later, must be restored. Some dream of returning to their palaces, others of reclaiming lost fortunes, titles or influence. They look to the past with nostalgia, determination, or denial.

Monarchs must restore what was lost.


“Today must endure. Peace is not inherited. It is negotiated.” 

Diplomats, ministers, police officials, intelligence officers and representatives of competing governments.

The Diplomats understand that the world is changing, but their task is not to choose the future. It is to prevent collapse. They negotiate, spy, compromise and conceal, believing that peace, neutrality and stability are fragile achievements worth preserving, whatever the cost.

Diplomats must preserve what remains.


“Tomorrow belongs to those who survive. As we have no world to return to, we will build new one.”

Refugees, journalists, artists, scientists, entrepreneurs and travellers searching for visas, opportunities or simply a way out of Europe.

For the Exiles, there is no home to return to. The old world rejected them, betrayed them, or simply vanished. Some seek safety, others reinvention. They do not dream of restoration, but of possibility. Whether idealists, opportunists or visionaries, they are the first inhabitants of a Europe yet to be born.

Exiles must build what comes next.


“Every guest has a secret. The hotel remembers them all. We see everything. We repeat nothing.” 

Concierges, waiters, maids, chauffeurs, musicians and casino employees.

The Staff keeps the hotel alive. They serve meals, prepare rooms, carry luggage and quietly observe the dramas unfolding around them. They know who arrived under a false name, who never sleeps, and who receives visitors after midnight.

Some wish to preserve the old order. Others dream of escaping it. Most simply hope that, when the war finally reaches Portugal, they will still have a place to call home.


“We do not choose the future. We keep it possible.”

The Benefactors are the custodians of the Palácio Hotel and the mysterious hosts of the gathering. They maintain neutrality, safeguard the Protocol and ensure that the conference continues despite disagreements, intrigues and unforeseen events. They rarely intervene directly, yet their presence can be felt in every corridor, every sealed envelope and every carefully arranged meeting.


Logistics

The Estoril Protocol will take place at the historic Palácio Estoril Hotel, located in the heart of Estoril (Rua Particular, 2769-504 Estoril, Portugal), approximately 25 km from central Lisbon and around 35–40 minutes away by train along the scenic Cascais railway line. The hotel is only a short walk from Estoril railway station.

The game will be designed to accommodate both English and Portuguese-speaking participants. Character materials and player communication will be available in both languages whenever possible, while mixed-language play will be actively supported during the event.

The Estoril Protocol is designed as an adult roleplaying experience and is open exclusively to participants aged 18 or older.

The Palácio Estoril Hotel is conveniently located just 30 minutes from Lisbon and is easily reached via the scenic Cascais railway line, with regular trains departing from Cais do Sodré Station throughout the day.

For those who arrive by plane there is a direct subway connection between the Airport and the Cais do Sodré Train station.

As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we encourage participants to use public transport whenever possible. We are currently planning a shared group journey by train from Lisbon to Estoril on the first day of the event, offering participants the opportunity to meet one another before the game begins and arrive together at the venue.

Should additional transport be required, we will also evaluate the possibility of providing optional shuttle services based on participants’ travel needs.

Participants of The Estoril Protocol will have access to special rates and discounts at a selection of hotels in the area:

Palácio Estoril Hotel

Stay directly at the historic five-star hotel where The Estoril Protocol will take place and remain immersed in the atmosphere of the event throughout the weekend. No travelling required: when the game ends, you’re already home for the night.

Hotel Inglaterra Estoril

An elegant alternative in the heart of Estoril, just a few minutes’ walk from the Palácio, making it particularly convenient for participants who want to stay close to the event.

Vila Galé Estoril

Another convenient option just a few minutes’ walk from the Palácio, close to both the event venue and Estoril railway station.

The Albatroz Hotel, Cascais

A five-star hotel overlooking the Atlantic in neighbouring Cascais. Located just beside Cascais railway station, it is only one direct train stop, around 3 minutes, from Estoril, making it an easy option for reaching the Palácio.

All accommodation is optional and booked and paid for directly with the hotels, allowing each participant to choose the solution that best suits their needs and budget.

Full booking details, promotional codes and special rates will be shared directly with registered participants.

Detailed information regarding accessibility and venue facilities will be published before registrations open. Participants will also be invited to communicate any specific accessibility requirements during registration.

Character roles are gender-inclusive. Every role may be portrayed by players of any gender identity, regardless of the historical context, allowing everyone to choose the character that best suits the story they wish to tell.


Historical Setting & Community Values

The Estoril Protocol is inspired by the atmosphere of neutral Portugal during the Second World War. It explores diplomacy, espionage, exile and the difficult moral choices faced by individuals living through one of history’s darkest periods.

While the game draws inspiration from historical events, it does not seek to recreate, promote or glorify fascism, Nazism or any form of authoritarianism, hatred or discrimination. Our focus is on the human stories behind history: the search for peace, survival, compromise and hope in uncertain times.

We believe that memorable stories are created within a welcoming, respectful and inclusive community. Participants of every nationality, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age and physical ability are welcome at our events. Every player has the right to feel safe, respected and free to express themselves through their character.

Throughout the game, moments of tension, confrontation or intense emotional exchange may occur between characters. These interactions can include verbal conflict or physically expressive postures as part of the narrative. All such interactions must always be clearly consensual between the players involved, respecting personal boundaries and established safety guidelines. At no point should in-character conflict override out-of-character respect, safety or communication.

Harassment, discrimination, intimidation or any form of verbal or physical aggression will not be tolerated. If these principles are not respected, the organizing team will take appropriate action to maintain a safe and respectful environment for all participants. Anyone whose behaviour compromises the safety or enjoyment of others may be asked to leave the event without refund.

Throughout the event, our dedicated Safety Team will always be available to provide support, answer questions and help resolve any situation that may arise. Whether you need practical assistance, emotional support or simply a moment away from the game, someone will always be there to help.

Costumes & Dress Code

The game takes place in 1941, and we ask every player to create a costume that is appropriate to the period and to their character’s social background, circumstances and personality.

Historical accuracy is encouraged, but you are not expected to purchase authentic 1940s clothing or invest large amounts of money in your costume. A convincing silhouette, carefully chosen colours, appropriate fabrics and a few characteristic accessories can often create a stronger impression than an expensive reproduction.

Second-hand and vintage clothing are particularly suitable for the visual language of The Estoril Protocol, and we strongly encourage reuse, adaptation and creative sourcing wherever possible. Many modern garments can also work perfectly when combined thoughtfully.

Once characters have been assigned, the event guide will include detailed costume guidance, historical references and visual inspiration for the different character groups. Players will receive their characters well in advance of the event, giving everyone plenty of time to prepare without rushing.

Please remember that the Palácio Estoril is an elegant historic setting. Our aim is to create a visually coherent shared world together. Your costume does not need to be expensive. It needs to belong to the story.

As part of our commitment to a more sustainable event, we encourage participants to choose second-hand, vintage, borrowed or repurposed clothing whenever possible, giving existing garments a new life rather than buying new pieces specifically for the event. 

For participants based in Portugal, Lisbon has several excellent options for finding affordable second-hand clothing, vintage garments and accessories.

HUMANA Vintage Secondhand and HUMANA Vintage are particularly useful for inexpensive second-hand hunting and adapting existing pieces.

Tropical Bairro is another great local option for second-hand and vintage finds in Lisbon, with a varied selection of clothing and accessories worth exploring when putting together your character’s look.

A Outra Face da Lua is one of Lisbon’s established vintage shops and has been operating in the Baixa since 2005. Its current selection concentrates primarily on later decades, so it is better approached as a source for individual garments and accessories rather than ready-made 1940s outfits.

Ás de Espadas vintage store and more is particularly interesting because its curated selection extends across a broader historical range, including pieces from the 1920s onwards.

For menswear, newJester Vintage for man may also be worth exploring, while Retro City offers another large vintage selection.

These are only suggestions. There is absolutely no requirement to buy your costume from a specialist vintage shop. Your own wardrobe, family wardrobes, charity shops, flea markets, second-hand platforms and a little alteration can be equally effective.

More detailed costume guides will follow.


Location

An iconic hotel with a rich history
During World War II, the Palácio Estoril Hotel provided sanctuary for European royal families who had fled to Estoril, earning the area the nickname “Coast of Kings.” Many members of European nobility made the hotel their chosen residence. However, the hotel also attracted British and German spies who frequented the hotel’s bar, leading to tales of intrigue and espionage that later inspired famous novels and movies, including the James Bond film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.”

Over the years, the Palácio Estoril has welcomed a long list of distinguished guests, including heads of state, emperors, kings, princes, artists, writers, sports champions, filmmakers, and actors, many of whom have played a significant role in shaping the destiny of the West. The hotel has also hosted private or state visits, festivals, and major summits. You never know who you might bump into in the public rooms or corridors – a Crown Prince, a film director, a European sovereign, an actress, or an internationally renowned musician.

Despite undergoing several refurbishments and renovations, the Palácio Hotel still retains its old-world charm and elegance. It offers all the modern comforts and conveniences of a five-star luxury hotel while preserving the charm of yesteryear.

The Palácio Estoril Hotel will provide seasonal menus prepared with carefully selected ingredients, with dedicated options available for different dietary requirements, food allergies and intolerances. Participants will be invited to communicate their needs during registration so that every guest can enjoy the dining experience safely and comfortably.


Safety & Inclusivity

The Estoril Protocol explores themes of war, exile, political tension, moral compromise and personal loss. While the emotions experienced during the game can become intense, the wellbeing of every participant will always take precedence over the story.

To help create an experience that is both immersive and respectful, we provide a range of safety measures throughout the event.

A dedicated quiet space will be available throughout the event for anyone who wishes to step away from the game, rest, decompress or simply take a moment for themselves. There is never any expectation to remain in character if you need a break.

The event will use a set of well-established safety techniques designed to support emotionally challenging scenes while respecting each participant’s boundaries. These tools will be fully explained before the game and described in detail in the Event Guide.

Before play begins, all participants will take part in a short workshop introducing the setting, game style and safety practices. Whether this is your first LARP or your fiftieth, we want everyone to begin the weekend feeling comfortable, informed and ready to play together.

Our Community

We believe that the best stories are created in an environment of trust, respect and collaboration.

The Estoril Protocol welcomes participants regardless of nationality, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age or physical ability. We expect every player to contribute to a friendly, inclusive and respectful atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves through their character.

Harassment, discrimination, intimidation or any form of verbal or physical aggression will not be tolerated. Anyone whose behaviour compromises the safety or enjoyment of others may be removed from the event.

Safety Team

Throughout the event, a dedicated Safety Team will always be available. Easily identifiable and trained to provide support, they are there to answer questions, help resolve difficult situations, offer a listening ear or simply assist whenever needed.

Our goal is simple: to create an experience where players feel free to explore powerful stories, knowing that they are supported both in and out of character.


Tickets & Pricing

Our goal is simple: to create a premium historical LARP without compromising the quality of the experience.

The Estoril Protocol will take place at the historic Palácio Estoril Hotel, allowing participants to spend two full days immersed in the atmosphere of wartime Portugal, within the very rooms where diplomats, exiled royalty and intelligence agents once crossed paths.

Your ticket directly contributes to making this experience possible, supporting the historic venue, catering, character development, game materials, props, event production and the team working behind the scenes.

Pre-Registration Special Prices are available until 7 August 2026 and are reserved for participants who registered their interest during the development phase of the event.

Early Bird pricing will begin on 10 August 2026, with a separate deadline and a limited allocation of tickets. Once the Early Bird allocation has sold out, or its respective deadline has been reached, Regular pricing will apply.


TicketPrice
Pre-Registration Special Price (Deadline 7 August 2026)€380
Early Bird (deadline: 1 January 2027)€450
Regular (deadline: 6 March 2027)€480

The ticket includes:

• Two full days of gameplay

• Access to a carefully selected historic luxury venue, Palácio Estoril Hotel

• Gourmet lunches on both days

• Gourmet dinners on both days

• Two Coffee breaks per day

• Character, printed materials and game props

• Safety team and event staff

• Full organisational support before and during the event

Accommodation is not included, allowing participants to choose whether to stay at the venue or elsewhere.

We are currently working with our venue partners to offer optional accommodation packages at the event hotel, allowing participants to enjoy the full experience in the same historic setting where the game takes place. Further details will be announced once confirmed.

As part of our commitment to more sustainable travel, we are also planning a shared train journey from Lisbon to Estoril on the first day of the event, encouraging the use of public transport while giving participants the opportunity to meet before the game begins and arrive at the venue together.


Limited to 5 places per day.

TicketPrice
Pre-Registration Special Price (Deadline 7 August 2026)€150
Early Bird (deadline: 1 January 2027)€180
Regular (deadline: 6 March 2027)€200

Supporting Character tickets include:

• One full day of gameplay

• Access to the historic venue Palácio Estoril Hotel during attendance

• Gourmet Lunch and dinner for the day

• Coffee breaks

• Character and game materials


Flexible Payment Plans

We understand that attending an international LARP represents a significant investment.

For this reason, participants will be able to choose between paying in full or spreading the cost across several instalments. More information about payment options will be available when registrations open.


Schedule

10:00 – 13:00
Arrival, registration and pre-game workshops. Participants will meet the organising team, become familiar with the venue, complete the final character briefing and take part in safety and introductory workshops before the game begins.

13:00
The Estoril Protocol officially begins.

Throughout the afternoon and evening, players will navigate diplomatic meetings, private negotiations, espionage, secret exchanges and growing political tensions.

Lunch, coffee breaks and dinner are integrated into the experience, providing natural opportunities for networking, diplomacy and informal roleplay.

The first day concludes with a major in-game event that will shape the second half of the conference.

23:30
End of Day One.


10:00
Brief recap and return to play.

The second day sees negotiations intensify as alliances are tested, investigations deepen and hidden agendas come to light. Every decision carries greater weight as the future of the conference hangs in the balance.

Lunch is served in character, allowing discussions and negotiations to continue uninterrupted.

The afternoon builds towards the final session, where participants will determine the fate of The Estoril Protocol and the conference itself.

20:00
End of the game, followed by final announcements, debriefing protocols, out of game dinner and farewells.


Registration

The Estoril Protocol requires a minimum number of participants to ensure the quality, sustainability and intended scale of the experience. Confirmation is therefore subject to reaching the minimum attendance threshold. If the event does not reach the required number of participants, registered players will be offered the opportunity to receive a full refund.

Flexible payment plans will be available, allowing participants to spread the cost across several instalments.

Participants who have already completed their pre-registration will shortly receive an email with payment instructions, allowing them to confirm their place.

The Estoril Protocol

13–14 March 2027

Full Character places are limited to 45 participants and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Supporting Character places are limited to five participants per day and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Participants who have already completed their pre-registration will shortly receive an email with payment instructions, allowing them to confirm their place.


Join the Community

Have questions about The Estoril Protocol, want to meet other participants or simply keep in touch with the Olisippo Obscura community?

Join us on WhatsApp or Discord. These spaces are open for questions, discussions, travel planning and connecting with other players before and after our events.

WhatsApp Community → https://chat.whatsapp.com/F0UhVAu1dzLDfaDuArUHvH
Discord Server → https://discord.gg/MsN5FD8zTF

Important event information and official communications will always be sent directly by email, so joining these communities is entirely optional.