Historic Palacio
This historic retreat is tucked away in the shadow of St George’s Castle in the centre of the city, yet a little off the beaten track. The Palacio Belmonte has fabulous views overlooking Alfama’s famous churches and the River Tagus. Most of the historic sights of Lisbon are within easy walking distance, including the Catedral de Lisboa and the National Theatre. The historic buildings, museums and art galleries are all close to this luxury hotel, which is part of the old castle.
This delightful historic hideaway in old Lisbon is the perfect location for a relaxing escape from the 21st century. High ceilings, huge doorways and vast empty rooms dwarf the guests of this boutique hotel as they explore the warren of passageways and rooms in this 15th century restored palacio.
Be prepared to climb winding granite steps to your room which is delightfully decorated with silk wall coverings, 18th century antique furniture and fabulous artwork. Those who appreciate antiques will love the priceless hand-painted tile panels, the old oil paintings, gilt mirrors and drawings which litter the former palace. There are old books everywhere, in fact the library has over 4000 dusty hardbacks which look almost as old as the stone walls.
Listed by Condé Nast as one of the 20 hippest hotels, it is unlike any other luxury hotel in Lisbon. Even higher praise came for the sympathetic restoration from Prince Charles who gave it the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyor’s award for Outstanding Restoration. The fabulous bathtub with its original dark blue and fuchsia designs, the traditional azulezo tiles and the historic foundations going back to 130BC are all given their rightful respect in the make-over of this fabulous boutique hotel accommodation.
Staying in one of the 11 suites is a fabulous experience as you step back in time and see how the wealthy lived centuries before. The palace is situated inside the Moorish castle, the only downside being the lack of parking for guests. The rooms are huge, bathrooms are marvelous marble affairs in black, green and white, with no sign of skimping when they were refurbished. Modern amenities include cable TV, air conditioning and a minibar as well as room service and a homely bar.
Breakfast is served on the terrace and the waiter is happy to serve a wide selection of choices from the menu – no cellophane wrapped continental breakfast stodge here. Explore the lush tropical gardens and the amazing black granite swimming pool, or laze on the wooden deck in the sunshine. If you never get to see the historic charm of Lisbon, the luxury Hotel Palacio Belmonte will have given you a treasured time enveloped in Lisbon’s historic atmosphere.
Castelo - 37
