In a world where authenticity and quality have become rare values, Castelbel stands out as an essential reference. This Portuguese brand, born in the late 1990s, blends artisanal tradition and innovation with elegance. Refined soaps, ambient fragrances, candles or delicate pillow sprays… every Castelbel creation is a promise of softness and excellence. Whether you're a lover of subtle scents or passionate about the art of living, the brand will awaken your senses and elevate your everyday life!

An Unexpected Beginning 

It all started in 1999, in Porto. Aquiles Barros, a chemistry professor at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto, received a rather surprising proposal : an American company, Lafco NY (specialised in luxury home products), asked him to produce high-end scented soaps for the US market. With no prior experience in the cosmetics industry, Aquiles jumped in with enthusiasm and a healthy dose of boldness. “Why not?”, he thought (we love that vibe !).

And so Castelbel was born, a contraction of Castelo da Maia (his hometown, not far from Porto) and beleza, which means “beauty” in Portuguese.

The Entrepreneurial Journey 

From the outset, the company stood out for its high standards: a constant pursuit of quality and a strong desire to place craftsmanship at the heart of the brand. With a small team of just nine people, Castelbel quickly found success. In less than a year, turnover reached €150,000 (and honestly, who wouldn’t want a start like that ?). But fate had other plans… In September 2001, the attacks in the United States disrupted international trade, and Castelbel lost its main client. Refusing to give up, Aquiles Barros got creative : he diversified production and began making soaps for other prestigious brands, such as Zara Home and Gant Home.

Steady Growth 

As the years passed, the brand grew and so did its ambition. Castelbel launched two distinct lines: Castelbel, with a more traditional and rustic style, and Portus Cale, its premium version, with a contemporary and refined look. Today, the brand is present in over 50 countries and offers more than 500 products. A success that commands admiration, and a true source of national pride!

A Strategic Shift 

March 2024 marked a turning point : Castelbel was acquired by the Bourn Rock Investments group, which aims to strengthen its presence in the consumer goods sector and support the brand’s international expansion. Under this new leadership, Castelbel remains true to its DNA : investing in innovation, design and quality, while preserving Portuguese artisanal traditions. A well-managed evolution, where the future is shaped by heritage.

Exceptional Products, Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Artisanal Soaps with Captivating Scents 

Every Castelbel soap is a true work of art, made from a 100% natural plant-based formula. The fragrances, developed in Europe, are selected with extreme care to offer a unique sensory experience. Among the favourites? Lemon verbena, lavender (yes, that one’s clearly MY best-seller !), chamomile, spiced vanilla… and even limited editions like Pumpkin Spice or Sunflower Honey.

Products for Body and Home 

Castelbel doesn’t stop at soaps: the brand also offers a full range of items to scent your home (candles, diffusers, pillow sprays, scented ceramics)… Iconic collections like Portuguese Tiles (with a drop-dead gorgeous design, trust me !) or Cotton Flower combine elegance and refinement. The result ? A warm, soothing and delicately scented atmosphere.

And that’s not all: the packaging of each product is designed as a decorative object in its own right, an elegant, timeless touch that enhances any space.

©castelbel

A Strong Commitment to Quality and Sustainability

Local and Artisanal Production 

All Castelbel products are made in Portugal, in the Porto region, at the heart of an inspiring landscape near the Douro Valley. The scenery, local traditions and surrounding nature all feed the brand’s creativity. Production adheres to strict environmental standards, ensuring products that are as ethical as they are beautiful.

A Dedicated Team 

Castelbel is also a human adventure ! More than 200 employees (mostly women) carry forward artisanal know-how with passion. Every soap, every fragrance is the result of meticulous work, a love of detail and shared pride.

Why Choose Castelbel ?

The Perfect Gift 

Giving a Castelbel product means offering more than just an object : it’s a sensory experience. Birthday, celebration or thoughtful gesture… these refined creations always hit the mark. And for a truly Portuguese souvenir, the Tiles collection is simply perfect !

A Sensory Journey 

Every scent, every texture, every detail transports you to a world where beauty meets emotion. Castelbel products awaken the senses and bring a touch of discreet luxury to everyday life.

Where to Find Castelbel Products 

The brand is available in many shops around the world. In Portugal, its collections can be found at FNAC, a lifestyle and culture icon, proof that Castelbel is now part of everyday Portuguese life !

These spaces, both minimalist and welcoming, perfectly reflect the brand’s identity : a blend of craftsmanship and modernity. To explore the full range (and indulge, let’s be honest, especially during the sales), visit Castelbel’s official website !

Castelbel embodies the perfect union of tradition and innovation. Impeccable quality, a strong commitment to the environment and local craftsmanship, timeless elegance… More than a brand, Castelbel is an invitation to experience Portugal through the senses. And between us, it’s hard not to fall under its spell, we’re totally hooked !