Hotel Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon

is located close to Edward VII Park, to the north of the Rossio and Chiado districts of the city and just a stone's throw away from Marques de Pombal Square. It is a little out of the way of the city centre, though, in comparison to the Sofitel, for example, and the other hotels located along Liberdade Avenue.

The hotel was built in 1959 and became part of the Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts group in 1997. The spirit of its original creators can still be felt, despite it having been renovated twice since it was opened. Their intention was to combine the style of Louis XVI and Art Deco whilst showcasing the work of Portuguese artists. Consequently, the hotel's various communal areas feature sculptures, paintings and other works by Portuguese artists.

This imposing building overlooking Edward VII Park dates back to the 50s but it is still one of the most luxurious hotels in Lisbon. Its lobby is done out in the Imperial style and is adorned with various paintings and sculptures by Portuguese artists. Tea is served at 5:00pm in the Almada Negreiros lounge area near the lobby, or, if you prefer, you can sip a cocktail in the hotel bar, where you can relax in the all-red and black interior, while listening to live music (open from Monday to Saturday evening). A selection of sandwiches and snacks is also available at the bar. The hotel's magnificent spa offers various treatments and massages (specially designed for the Ritz), in calm and sophisticated surroundings and it also boasts a sauna, a hammam and a swimming pool. The spa café serves a variety of infusions, teas and other drinks, and also serves lunch, so guests can take full advantage of their day of pampering, with husbands often meeting up with their wives for a spot of lunch. Unlike many spas, this one is not closed off from the outside world as it has lots of windows which allow plenty of natural light in. Jogging fans will be pleased to know that there is a track on the roof of the hotel, so you can keep fit and enjoy the views at the same time, whilst the rooftop gym, which has a range of machines, offers views across Lisbon and the Tage.

The 282 rooms are spread over 10 floors. All the rooms are identical in terms of decor (not size), with heavy drapes, outdated carpets, old furniture and a pedestal table which give them a retro, and somewhat outdated feel. They all have a television, a telephone, a safe, a DVD and CD player, Internet access, air-conditioning and a minibar stocked with organic snacks, (a small detail but one which is nevertheless worth pointing out). 272 of the room also have a private terrace complete with tables and chairs. The all-marble bathrooms have both a shower and a bathtub, two washbasins, a separate toilet and a large mirror, which will assure you that you are the fairest in the land.

The Varanda restaurant offers beautiful views of Edward VII Park, and you can even choose to eat on the terrace if you have the time. Inside the restaurant, you will be met with a host of small, round tables dotted here and there in retro surroundings which include a crystal chandelier and a huge mirror. Breakfast and lunch are served here as buffets, whilst dinner is chosen a la carte. The cuisine served here is very sophisticated and the Mediterranean-style (primarily) fish and seafood dishes are all well-presented. A wide variety of cheeses is also available.