REVIEW: The Lumiares, Lisbon

If glowing sunsets bouncing off Lisbon’s terracotta rooftops are what you’re hoping for, you can call off the search. Situated atop the Gloria Funicular in Lisbon’s trendy Bairro Alto area, this brand new hotel is in the perfect location for a break in Portugal’s capital city. The gorgeous The Lumiares, Lisbon, a boutique hotel that only opened this summer, has captured the elusive home-away-from-home magic perfectly.

Waiting in your room is a welcome gift that any guest would be thrilled to arrive to – a fridge stocked with a selection of wine, beer, water, soft drinks and chocolate, all compliments of the hotel. The idea is that no guest should arrive frazzled from a long trip and be without a few comforting luxuries – a welcome treat indeed! After a hot and sweaty trip from London with a six-month-old in tow, the gesture was more than appreciated.

MODERN LUXURY

The Lumiares, Lisbon has apartment-style suites, which are dressed with modern interiors that are sourced locally from independent Portuguese retailers. The rooms offer a luxe feel with a cosy personal touch. Every framed print and asymmetric coffee cup, a subtle reminder of the unique city outside the building’s tall Juliet windows. Each of the 53 rooms has a cool kitchen, including state of the art Smeg appliances, a cosy living space and a bright and spacious sleeping area. Huge beds are the centrepiece of the bedroom with colourful themes creating the bright and lively decor.

SPACE TO RELAX

The two-bedroom apartment is ideal for families or a group of friends travelling together. The lounge area has huge windows, space to entertain and a table for dining or for creating a home office. Outside, the city is awake and buzzing but noise is minimal. The suite is fully climate controlled and adjustable per room, but windows can be opened – which is a personal highlight as many hotels don’t give you the option of opening up for some fresh air! Some rooms also have balconies, so check before you book. As someone who travels a lot, I especially liked the security and facilities of staying in a hotel with a real feeling that I was chilling out in my own Lisbon crash pad.

SPLASH OUT

Often, a bathroom can really sell me on a hotel room and here I had two to choose from. The option of a bath in the en-suite is ideal for families but there is also a spacious shower to stretch out in. Of all the design quirks here, the classic Portuguese tiles that adorn the walls in both bathrooms were my favourite. I loved the subtle nod to the country outside without a compromise on quality.

Products are from luxury soap brand Claus Porto, a range I wasn’t previously familiar with but have now scanned the website for my own supply. Large sinks and monogrammed towels and robes complete the look.

TOP LOCATION

The hilltop Bairro Alto position is a major draw for visitors to Lisbon. The area, which has limited access for cars, is a pedestrian-friendly zone and guests can walk easily to the party zones of Pink Street and the Park Bar – a rooftop car park-turned cocktail bar. The surrounding area is dotted with local restaurants and cafes. The neighbourhood is lively with the atmosphere of locals and tourists spilling out onto the cobbled alleyways.

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You’re also in luck if you fancy a taste of authentic Portuguese cuisine without leaving the hotel. Lumni, the rooftop bar and restaurant has a menu created by celebrated chef, Miguel Castro e Silva. The menu is a delicious mix of local favourites with a slick international twist, all served with a side of stunning city views. The inspired glass wall actually makes you feel as though you are dining on the rooftops. Breakfast is also served in Lumni and I’m prepared to say, is perhaps the best inclusive hotel breakfast I’ve ever had. Fresh pastries, fruit and à la carte options are available as well as coffee, smoothies and juice. On the ground floor, the more relaxed Mercado Café offers fresh bread, local Portuguese pastries and coffee.

RELAX AND UNWIND

The hotel has a boutique spa offering delicious facials, massage and body treatments and the opportunity to relax after a busy day of sightseeing. You will also find a small gym for hotel guests if climbing the city’s hills all day hasn’t quite worn you out as well as the opportunity to request a personal trainer to whip you into shape. Top tip: avoid the lift and take the grand, original staircase to your room. Looking up you’ll capture the enormous modern chandelier towering above as you ascend to bed. Created by award-winning artist and designer Beau McClellan, Guinness World record holder for designing the largest chandelier in the World in 2010, it’s a stunning addition to the beautifully crafted hotel. Our photo didn’t do it justice but you can find more about the installation here.

Just off the beaten track enough to avoid the coach parties and crowds, but perfectly placed for sightseeing and exploring Lisbon on foot. No stone has been left unturned at this contemporary hotel and lucky guests are spoiled rotten by thoughtful touches and extras. For me, location alone would bring me back for a second stay and the hotel is ideal for couples, families or friends looking for a stylish stay in the city. We loved it.

The Lumiares, Lisbon, ALL THE INFO YOU NEED

Rooms at The Lumiares, Lisbon start from €190 per night. Book directly at thelumiares.com and the glorious buffet breakfast is included.

View our video tour of The Lumiares, Lisbon: