Hotel Britania Art Deco, Lisbon
A friend and seasoned travel writer has long urged us to visit Lisbon. It has so much to offer yet often seems to be overlooked, he says, before reeling off dozens of reasons to make it a highly attractive destination.
So where to start? Well, there's the fact it is the second oldest capital in Europe next to Athens. History lovers will enjoy exploring the labyrinthine streets, ramparts and castles as well as being entranced by the colourful houses, often bedecked with beautiful tiles. Modern buildings with a sense of style (shops, bars and apartments) merge nicely into Portugal's capital city. The list of enticements goes on . . . stunning, easy-to-reach beaches, wonderful food and drink, family-friendly and the third sunniest city in Europe - it’s also one that champions greener urban living.
If the above has whetted your appetite you will need a base from which to explore and the Hotel Britania Art Deco (part of the Lisbon Heritage Collection), designed in 1942 by the modernist architect Cassiano Branco, is ideally placed adjacent to the Avenida da Liberdade and an oasis of calm and perfect hospitality. It has the air of a welcoming private club with 33 spacious and well-equipped bedrooms, an assisted breakfast buffet, a library and Imperio Bar but perhaps what sets it apart is the exceptionally friendly and obliging staff. " We pride ourselves on the quality of people we employ," a manager told us, and that's much in evidence.
Being centrally located enabled us to explore a large amount of the city on foot, lots of narrow cobbled streets on the one hand and the expansive promenade on the other. There is an abundance of very good restaurants and we were impressed with the quantity of excellent vegan options available. A visit wouldn't have been complete without a ride on one of the historic Remodelado trams - we caught the E15 through to Belem to visit the famous Jerónimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries, celebrating the country’s great adventurers. Both are well worth your time, especially if you choose to go to the top of the monument which offers breathtaking views of the area.
We walked through the Parque Eduardo VII with its botanical gardens, beautiful trees, hidden nooks and paths; a tranquil spot away from the city.
There was also time to take in an organised day trip to Pena Palace, Sintra (sampling the local pastry delicacy, Quijada, is a must) and Cascais with its sandy beaches and busy marina.
Why not explore this city of great explorers?
Guest Hotel Review by Karen Bryson
Hotel Britania Art Deco
Rates from £165 per night
www.lisbonheritagehotels.com