The Four Seasons in Portugal’s vibrant capital city was designed and built to attract a new clientele to Lisbon and put this destination on the international traveller’s map. Situated at the summit of Avenida de Liberdade (the Park Lane of Lisbon) overlooking the beautiful Parque Eduardo VII, it has long been considered Lisbon’s premier hotel.
The elegant ten storey building is spacious and grand inside. The divinely decorated interiors house 18th-century replica furnishings and an outstanding collection of contemporary Portuguese tapestries, paintings and sculptures. I was amazed too, by the impressive flower display in the lobby, beautiful blooms which are refreshed frequently add life and vibrancy to the communal area of the hotel.
The extensive meeting room facilities mean this venue is ideal for overseas and local business clients. The hotel was very busy, an impressive feat considering the off-peak season. While we were visiting, a senior Turkish delegation were also staying and the heightened security (gun-wielding police on the street and suited bodyguards in the lobby) was slightly disconcerting, especially since this hotel prides itself on being a family-friendly luxury hotel.
Of the 282 rooms and suites, 272 have private terraces looking out over central Lisbon and beyond. Our huge deluxe room included a large work desk and outdoor seating on the terrace. Simply arranged with attractive Portuguese decor and furnished in a timeless style. An offering of customary custard tarts and red wine was on the coffee table for us to munch on. It was easy to relax in our room with a big bouncy bed covered in the softest sheets and big warm dressing gowns and slippers to wear in the room.
An airy, light and spacious marble bathroom with large bath, separate rainforest and power shower, all supplied with L’Occitane toiletries, was a lovely place to revitalise and refresh. I was amazed by the special service too – when I needed nail varnish remover (as girls often do) the room service team swiftly brought me up some from the spa. And what a spa, the one at Four Seasons Lisbon is one of the very best I have seen, wonderful in every sense of the word. Located on the lower ground floor, there is plenty of room for all the luxurious facilities: a dazzlingly blue lap pool with an outdoor terrace, relaxation room, saunas and huge indulgent changing rooms. On the top floor guests should make use of the fitness rooms and amazing rooftop running track (which is a bit of a novelty), you can sprint round the Ritz whilst admiring the breathtaking views of the whole city below.
Every few months Lisbon Four Seasons invites a pair of guest therapists to the hotel from another Four Seasons branch. We were lucky to experience the wisdom and power of two Thai masseurs, who worked their magic on the Sunday morning. It was undoubtedly the best massage either of us have ever tried, two hours of absolute bliss, relaxation and tlc.
The lovely Varanda restaurant provides breakfast, lunch and dinner and those in need of a nightcap can visit the Ritz Bar for a cocktail. We enjoyed breakfast in the Varanda both mornings. It is hard to choose from the display of tempting dishes, fruits, pastries and hot treats. Just the juice, croissants and coffee were enough to satisfy me but on the second day I challenged the kitchen with my request for French toast. They rose to the test and presented me with a beautiful plate of warm sweet fried toast complete with strawberries and maple syrup; it was so divine I couldn’t help but finish the whole portion.
Lastly I must mention the incredible digital guide this hotel has produced. “Lisbon through Four Season’s eyes” is a city guide with a difference, outlining the very best currently on offer in every department and giving insider knowledge so you can see, do and eat the very best in this spectacular city. All activities can be organised by the hotel concierge so you can make the most of your time in Lisbon while the Four Seasons do all the hard work for you, promising the perfect stay and the perfect holiday.
More information and book here: www.fourseasons.com/lisbon