Modern, minimal and full of mouth-watering moments. Overload your senses (and stomach) with a stay at Altis Belém Hotel & Spa in Lisbon, says Editor Sophie Ritchie
Arrive at Altis Belém Hotel & Spa, a five-star design hotel located in the cultural district of Belém and walk into a world of undisputed cool.
There’s a sense of straightaway sleekness, conjured by the contemporary reception area filled with wide glass walls and a modern staircase, which guides guests to their equally stylishly sparse rooms.
The reception team are friendly, making check-in a smooth process that matches the tiled flooring. Directions or dinner plans, they can help with it all.
Keys in hand, it’s time to be whisked away to one of the 50 rooms and five suites, which overlook the the Tagus River with its slow flowing waters and stunning horizon.
The Rooms
Decor is uncluttered without feeling cold. Illustrated wall panels aim to each room a bespoke atmosphere that take inspiration from archaic Portugese colonies – such as painted avant-garde giraffes that transport guests across the world.
Enormous white beds are flanked by piles of pillows, whilst guests can also unwind on comfy lounging areas or make the most of useful working desks.
The bathrooms, decked out entirely in white marble, are impressively lavish. With glass dividers in most, a bubble bath in the square tub makes a great way to watch a Lisbon sunset with a complimentary tipple in hand from the well-stocked minibar.
Modern technology also plays a handy role. Bedside buttons promptly open or close the curtains and blinds, as well as the usual standard light switches.
Located on the shores of the Tagus River, the adjacent harbour offers beautiful views of both boats and nautical scenery. However, being on the main tourist strip means there’s usually plenty of folk walking around – but clever artistic screens manage to offer guests the same views without compromising on privacy.
The Food & Drink
Oh gourmands, you’re in for a treat. Forget dining out – all of the edible action is awaiting within. First, there’s Cafeteria Mensagem, a luscious oyster and sushi bar opened in partnership with acclaimed the Lisbon Restaurant Sushic. Think fresh fish and Japanese cuisine with a twist.
Try a tipple at Bar 38º 41′, a hotspot that takes its name from the geographical coordinates that symbolise the departure of the Portugese navigators.
Like the rest of this sleek hotel, the attention to detail is woven throughout – injecting Portugese traits subtly into phenomenal minimalist design.
Fine dining aficionados however, should reserve a table at Michelin-starred Feitoria for a delectable tasting menu that incorporates spices brought back from Portugese explorers on their various voyages. It’s both simultaneously magical and mouth-watering – as are the geometric interiors.
Breakfast is a buffet affair served in Cafeteria Mensagem, with a spread of fresh fruit, cereals, different breads and a few hot dishes. Fill up on coffee and don’t forget a Pastel de nata – Belém is the birthplace of this famous canary yellow custard tart.
The Extras
After you’ve finished devouring all that classic Portugese cuisine, treat yourself to a pampering session at The BSpa by Karin Herzog.
Its gleaming marble hallways are something otherworldly – whilst the various treatments, hamman, indoor pool, Vichy shower room and experience showers provide pure relaxation.
There’s also a small gym, complete with cardio machines, weights and fresh towels. For something scenic, swim a few lengths in the small rooftop pool and drink in the surrounding views of Lisbon’s sprawling river.
The Wordrobe Verdict
Modern, minimal and full of mouth-watering moments. Overload your senses (and stomach) with a stay at Altis Belém Hotel & Spa. With five-star facilities and an incredible design, this unique property will leave you salivating for your next stay.
Make it happen
Where: Doca do Bom Sucesso, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal
Getting there: Altis Belém Hotel & Spa is roughly 9km from Lisbon’s airport.
Timings: Check-in from 3pm. Checkout is at 12pm.
Cost: Rooms from £306 per night.
How: To find out more and make a booking, please click here or phone +351 21 040 0200.
