Heritage Av Liberdade, Lisbon, Portugal
The award-winning Heritage Av Liberdade hotel, situated in a restored 18th-century Lisbon townhouse, is a picture-perfect powder-blue confection. Inside, the spice-rack colour palette, hand-painted tiles and antique furnishings (including a preserved apothecary stand) blend traditional Portuguese charm with laid-back luxe.
Packing tips
Swimwear for the basement pool, trainers for the fitness centre, empty space in your suitcase for holiday acquisitions from the nearby boutiques.
Hotel restaurants
There's an eating and drinking area set at the back of the lobby behind the main reception desk, where you can indulge in the morning breakfast buffet and snacks (sandwiches, soups and salads) during the day, More gathering space than restaurant, it's the perfect place to meet for a quick bite and plan the day's adventures, or unwind with a drink after enjoying them. The lobby's décor flows through into this area - huge windows let in Lisbon's light, the hand-painted tiles add traditional charm and the warm, brown, amber and gold colour scheme makes for a comfortable, relaxing environment. You can also buy tea (and products from A Vida Portuguesa) from the beautifully restored Hermetica Herb Shop counter in the lobby.
Hotel bars
Wines, beers and spirits are all available in the eating and drinking area.
Activities
Let the Lisbon light flood into your bedroom and rise with the sun to wander around historic Castelo de São Jorge (St George's castle). Watch your step, though, the hilltop citadel is now guarded by geese and ducks who roam its gardens. The ramparts offer amazing views over Lisbon and the river Tagus, and you can also spy on local men playing backgammon and cards under the shade of the leafy trees. Move on to Lisbon's oldest district, Alfama, and explore the winding medieval alleys, tiny squares and the historic Fado quarter. Alternatively, head to Parque Eduardo VII and enjoy a romantic promenade through the mosaic-patterned walkways and geometric box hedging. Admire the fragrant hothouse's exotic flora and fauna, and the tropical plants, ponds, palms and cacti in the greenhouse.
Contact Book Heritage Av Liberdade with Mr & Mrs Smith or call 0845 034 0700
Rates 185-325. Breakfast is an additional 14 a person.
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