Saint Jorge Castle and Lisbon |
Sounds of jazz wafted through the air as I walked into the chic Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade. I knew immediately that I had arrived somewhere special.
French savoir-fare fused with the laid-back, gregarious charm
of Lisbon, this five-star hotel encapsulates the spirit of the city giving it a
local flavour that makes it stand out from the crowd. It is one of those
unique places that is welcoming and instantly makes you feel as if you belong.
The immaculate décor exudes good taste. Dark woods accented
with red and gold contrast sharply with marble sculptures and pay homage to
Portugal’s golden era, evoking memories of its Renaissance African and Eastern discoveries. The Sofitel Lisbon
Liberdade has fashioned a look that is luxurious and contemporary.
A complete respite from the hustle and bustle of the shops
and cafés that pepper the Avenida da Liberdade, arguably Lisbon’s, most
prestigious street, this 163-roomed hotel is one of those rare places you
don’t want to leave.
The cosy lounge bar is the perfect setting to refuel with an
espresso after a
morning’s shopping or to linger over an aperitif or a glass of port in the
evening. Art lovers will want to flick through the selection of books to be
found here.
I loved the AdLib restaurant and so too apparently do locals
and tourists alike as it was buzzing. It is definitely the place to be on a
Saturday night.
This is a restaurant that achieves the wow factor not just
with its nod to Portuguese traditions and culture and superb food but also with
its friendly and efficient staff that always seem to go that extra mile.
The menu serves up dishes with French flair bursting
with Portuguese flavours that make it seem you are tasting food for the very
first time. I had the bacalhau, (cod) which came with a selection of fresh
vegetables. Washed down with a glass of Portuguese wine (this country has some
great wines, many not available in the UK). This was a simple but most memorable meal.
Reception and lounge bar |
For breakfast, the restaurant takes on a completely
different vibe. The buffet is great, offering a good variety of dishes. My
waiter topped up my coffee without having to be asked. It’s a good place to
unwind and watch the world go by.
After a strenuous day of sightseeing there is nothing
more inviting than a bed that you just want to jump into. I defy you not to
have a good night’s sleep. The exclusive “My Bed” sleep has taken comfort to a
whole new level.
My gorgeous suite had almost a sanctuary-like atmosphere.
Time and effort has been put into it. Clad in soothing colours of beiges and
browns with a hint of black, it had all the state-of-the-art amenities that your
could heart could desire.
Luxury is in the small touches. A plate of delicious
Portuguese pastries was waiting to tempt me when I arrived. A most thoughtful
and appreciated gesture.
From my balcony, which was bigger than my London flat, I
watched the sun’s dying rays light up Saint Jorge Castle.
I called this hotel home for one night, I only wish it could
have been longer.
By Daralyn Danns
Getting there
British Airways offers a daily service from London to Lisbon three times
weekly from £110 return including taxes and charges. Hand baggage only from £80
return including taxes and charges. To book or for more information visit
www.ba.com/Lisbon or call 0844 4930787
Such a lovely way to fly. Relax with a drink and snack and
before you know where you are you have arrived in Lisbon.
Hotel Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade Rates from €162 per
night. Prices are subject to change. For more information and the best
rates visit www.sofitel.com