When you are the eldest, you are responsible for setting the example. And this has been a successful mission for the Memmo Alfama, the first boutique-hotel of the oldest district (Alfama) of one of Portugal’s oldest cities (Lisbon ... you’re keeping up, right?).
At the end of a maze of narrow streets and between the famous fado houses, there it is. Come on in, you are welcome here.
Much like most of the ancient Moorish neighborhood of Alfama, this hotel is remarkable. For example, the visage of the older fella carved onto the outside wall of the boutique hotel is the handiwork of renowned Portuguese artist Alexandre Farto (a.k.a Vhils). But once you’ve entered through its emerald-green doors, you will have left the old world of Lisbon behind and joined an universe of superior contemporary design and style, with a warm, laid-back atmosphere, just like home. You’ll feel it immediately as you check-in in the living room, oops, lobby, which looks as if it came straight out the pages of Architectural Digest, dotted with its Arne Jacobsen armchairs. It was love at first sight.
But, and extra special thank you and congratulations to architect Samuel Torres de Carvalho for transforming this 19th-century factory into a minimalist’s dream cocoon of contemporary neutral tones. Its 42 luminous rooms are fixed with open spaces, clean lines and … Egyptian-cotton linens with a choice: patio, bairro or river vista (we prefer a view of the Tagus, the river looks unreal in the morning upon waking). Comfortably at home, one revels in the cozy reading room and devours the books of Lisbon’s history. And up on the rooftop, you’ll linger with a glass of Portuguese wine, on one of the soft sofas in front of the luxurious infinity pool, just before the sublime panoramic view. As the cruise ships glide on the pretty shades of blues, those on board will think how lucky you are to be there. As for us, we can see that you’re in no hurry to go … home.
Contact our real estate agency BARNES Portugal
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