Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 218 816 600;
www.palaciobelmonte.com
; Páteo Dom Fradique 14; ste from €300; )
Nestled beside
Castelo de São Jorge, this 15th-century palace turns on the VIP treatment with its 11
suites, named after Portuguese luminaries and lavishly adorned with 18th-century
azule-
jos,
silks, marble and antiques. There's a pool framed by herb gardens, a wood-panelled
library where classical music plays, and numerous other l uxuries to justify the price tag.
Solar dos Mouros
( 218 854 940;
www.solardosmouros.pt
; Rua do Milagre de Santo António 4; d €70-170; )
Blink and
you'll miss this boutique pad near the castle. Its art-slung interior reveals a passion for
Africa and primary colours. Affording castle views or more panoramic vistas over the
river, the 12 rooms bear the imprint of artist Luís Lemos and offer trappings such as flat-
screen TVs and minibars. There's a water garden for catnapping between sights.
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
€€€
GREAT ESCAPES
Some of Lisbon's greenest and most peaceful
praças
(town squares) are perfect for a crowd-free stroll or picnic.
A few of our favourites:
Praça da Alegria
Swooping palms and banyan trees shade tranquil Praça da Alegria, which is actually more
round than square. Look out for the bronze bust of 19th-century Portuguese painter and composer Alfredo Keil.
Praça do Príncipe Real
A century-old cedar tree forms a giant natural parasol at the centre of this palm-dotted
square, popular among grizzled card players by day and gay cruisers by night. There's a kids' playground and a
relaxed cafe with alfresco seating.
Praça das Flores
Centred on a fountain, this romantic, leafy square has cobbles, pastel-washed houses and
enough doggie-do to make a Parisian proud.
is dotted with pine, weeping willow and jacaranda trees, with a pond for ducks and a pleasant indoor-outdoor
cafe.
Lisboêtas
in search of cures light candles before the statue of Dr Sousa Martins, who was renowned for his
healing work among the poor.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Príncipe Real, Santos & Estrela
Leafy neighbourhoods and plenty of style set the scene for an overnight stay in the top-
notch boutique hotels here. It's ideal for escapists who prefer pin-drop peace to central
bustle.
