Review: Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon hotel review

There’s really no better address in Lisbon than the Ritz. Overlooking Parque Eduardo, which stands in the centre of the city and faces down towards the river, it’s as close as you can come to feeling on top of a city with refreshingly few tall buildings. Originally built in 1959 by the dictator Salazar as the city's first-ever luxury hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Ritz is now one of the most recognisable monuments in the city, still known for its impeccable service and memorable luxury. What’s immediately noticeable upon entrance (aside from the first-class service) is the impressive display of art here; Portuguese paintings and tapestries line the walls, each telling a story and each truly eye-catching, even to those who wouldn’t necessarily call themselves art lovers. Decor is, of course, glamorous and classic – marble floors, chandeliers and gilded furniture take centre stage in public areas like the bar and restaurants. Rooms are slightly more pared-back, having been updated in recent years, but this is an FS Ritz we’re talking about; you still have oversized bathtubs, modern Japanese toilets and impossibly big, welcoming beds to dive into.

Food is most definitely a highlight. If you’re staying during a weekend, don’t miss the brunch, which consists of tables and tables of food – fresh seafood, stunning salads and classic Portuguese dishes line the centre tables, while the colourful cakes and chocolates at dessert would be enough to drive Willy Wonka mad. For something more subtle (but equally stomach-stretching) the tasting menu at Cura restaurant is undoubtedly one of the best in Lisbon. Expect dishes like melt-in-the-mouth squid with hazelnuts, roasted seaweed butter and caviar or a memorable bread dish, which showcases the flavours of Portugal with butter from the Azores, local olive oil and grains grown nearby.

Also worth checking out is the spa, consistently described as one of the best in Lisbon thanks to its world-class therapists and extensive list of treatments. There’s a wonderful indoor pool and a new addition of an outdoor pool, where you can order snacks and lounge during the warmer months.