A few meters away from the swanky and beautiful Avenida da Liberdade, this iconic hotel was built in 1959 on order of dictator Salazar to show Lisbon could do majestic Hotels as well as other European capitals. The property overlooks Parque Eduardo VII and still sets the bar for luxury and excellence in town.
The decor is simply sublime, the mid century masterpiece shows a modernist facade that hides decadent interiors enhanced by the old world chandeliers and an impressive art collection that perfectly represents the independent spirit of Portuguese culture. The eclectic mix of sculpture, paintings and tapestries makes the hotel a real museum of contemporary art.
Rooms
The plushest fabrics, the most immaculate furniture, the most flattering lights and so much more…
The job done by Artur Miranda and Jacques Bec of the architecture studio Oitoemponto is a thing of beauty that will warm the hearts of the most jaded lux travellers with its vintage glamour.
The design duo reimagined the “past for the present” embarking on a journey to reimagine the hotel roots for XXI century visitors. Their outstanding work evokes the past while proudly stepping into the most refined present. Rooms feature the most advanced technology for light, vision and sound that are designed to comfort and soothe.
Suites and rooms are extremely spacious, blessed with the natural daylight that can be enjoyed on the generously-sized balconies with breathtaking views of the capital.
Service
Service is impeccable every step of the way, not only efficient, but also dedicated and caring. Anticipation is the key word for staff and it shows in the way everything is done; every little detail honors the tradition of this landmark hotel and the Four Seasons name.
No request was ever too big and changes of plan due to Yours Truly’s unpredictable schedule while in town were met with utmost professionalism and everything was sorted out promptly and graciously.
Ambience
Sumptuous, yet quiet glamour, is what makes not only royalty, rock stars and Hollywood A-listers, but also refined locals consider the Hotel like a second home and a perfect place to unwind and celebrate special moments and create memories.
Talking of memories, sense of smell is closely connected to emotions and Four Seasons guests seek to create lasting memories through personalised experiences, and smell is remembered much longer than other senses.
That’s why the Hotel launched a new perfume that captures its relationship with Lisbon in a unique and mysterious scent, that evokes good stories and memories, and also an exclusive candle that guests can take home with them, says Guilherme Costa, General Manager.
The fresh, subtle, mysterious composition is captivating. It was created by Lourenço Lucena, a nez who graduated in Paris as a composer of perfumes; and the only Portuguese member of the Société Française des Parfumeurs.
Food
There’s plenty for a foodie to be happy with at the traditional Varanda Restaurant that serves local specialties, not to mention the Japanese venue O Japonês. Nonetheless, the impeccably appointed Cura is the one that steals the show.
Recently awarded a more than deserved Michelin star, Chef Pedro Pena Bastos’ cuisine is non conformist and offers the tastiest seasonal food and the best national ingredients produced in the fairest way.
Personally I went for the “Origens” tasting menu, a delectable experience with several divine courses, from the ancient wheat bread to the pigeon with endives, celery,apple and hibiscus ending with mouthwatering desserts wonderfully paired with great wines by Sommelier Gabriela Marques.
Spa
Definitely the best in Lisbon, the Spa is the perfect place to leave the excitement of the city life behind and enjoy a time of absolute relaxation and sheer indulgence. A veritable sanctuary where East meets West, where modern spa therapies meet ancient traditional rituals.
Guests will be spoilt for choice: from tailored treatments and facials featuring products from Swiss Perfection, ESPA and Sodashi that will leave the skin fresh, radiant and rejuvenated to signature treatments such as “Seven Hills of Lisbon”, an ode to Lisbon’s undulating landscape, rich traditions and organic regional ingredients, a revitalizing boost to relieve weary legs and bodies via an uplifting sensory immersion that honours the fruits and fragrances of Lisbon.
Insider Tips
-Get aquatinted with Lisbon the charming way with a tour of the city with a vintage moto sidecar, a great way to get around and catch a first glimpse of town and enjoy its miradouros (views)
-Workout on the 400 mt running circuit on top of the hotel with an unobstructed view of Lisbon
-Swim depending on the seasons in the new outdoor pool or in the 18 mt long indoor pool
-Save as many meals as you can to dine in, you won’t regret it.
