Staying at the Hotel Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade, Lisbon, Portugal

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.

Saint Jorge Castle and Lisbon

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.

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.

Reception and lounge bar

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 flies from London to Lisbon. To book or for more information visit  ba.com/Lisbon

 

Hotel Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade. For more information and the best rates visit www.sofitel.com

First published in All About Hair (All About Hair UK), the travel and lifestyle blog with a luxury twist