Stylish luxury with a taste of New York townhouse flair
Reviewed by Christopher A. • June 15, 2016Valverde Hotel is a 25 room designer boutique hotel with characteristics that pay tribute to bygone times. Housed in a grand 19th century building, it is an oasis of comfort in discreet luxury, that makes you feel right at home.
Location
Valverde is located in the heart of the famed, limestone tiled Avenida da Liberdade, which is home to several high street brands, boutiques and luxury hotels. Before it became an avenue, the old public promenade was the stage for displays of opulence, where Lisbon high society strolled around to see and to be seen. The Valverde Hotel could be called opulent too, but this is in fact the perfect hiding place to escape from the hustle of bustle of the city in stylish serenity.
Checking in
When arriving at the the hotel, we enter through a petite doorway, following a staircase leading up half a floor to the intimate lobby and reception area. As both receptionists are busy with checking in other guests, we are seated in the adjoining library. The vibe is very relaxed and you feel more like you are entering a chic 1930s art deco townhouse. It doesn’t take long until it’s our turn and we are greeted by Ivan who proceeds to take our details down while we are still seated. We are informed that our room isn’t quite ready yet, which is fine as we are (as per usual) early birds.
Next, we move over to the reception desk and sit down with Nuno who gives us a thorough tour of what sights and curiosities Lisbon has to offer. A really nice touch, that connects the feeling of familiarity and comfort.
The room
When arriving back to the hotel later in the day we are taken up to our room by a gentleman of the staff. On the elevator ride up to the second floor he explains he is from northern Portugal, but nowadays calls Lisbon his home since years back. Our stay for the night is in one of Valverde’s four junior suits. When opening the door we find that our luggage has magically teleported to the walk-in closet and we are given a tour of the room’s facilities and amenities, from the lights to where to find the hairdryer. Definitely a nice and much appreciated gesture.
The room (and the whole hotel for that matter) mixes vintage and modern styles with striped walls, panels, mood lighting, art deco pattern rugs and mid-century furnishings in an array of colors. And each of the 25 rooms have a different feel to it. If you didn’t know you were in the capital of Portugal, you could easily think you were in New York or London. Our mini suite is spacious and color coordinated to perfection. Every material and pattern has been meticulously selected and matched with unique designer furniture and paintings.
One detail that we both loved was the separate walk-in closet with ample space for all your luggage and shopping bags. Having all your belongings in one place makes everything feel so much more organized. The bathroom is masculine in tone and luxurious with black marble and separate bathtub and shower with amenities from Zenology. For staying in there’s a hidden mini barista space with a coffee machine, tea and excellent minibar. To top it all off, the Valverde Hotel also offer 24 hour room service and turndown service.
Eating and drinking
The restaurant and bar of Valverde is located downstairs and goes under the name of Sítio. The ceiling height is impressive and big windows let in light and gives you a splendid view of the pateo with its secluded areas of tranquility next to the lovely (heated) pool that is perfect for a refreshing dip while having ice tea.
The menu of the restaurant offers a variety of classics as well as the daily suggestion of the Chef. This is also where breakfast is served, offering up a bounty of bread, cold cuts, fruits and Portuguese pastry. If you are craving tasty pancakes and other delights a long weekend breakfast sit down require, a á la carte menu is also available.
Summary
Whether you are are in Lisbon for business or a weekend break, Valverde’s location, discreet luxury and personalized service is hard to top. Add to that, the attention to details, the amazing serene patio that feels like a green oasis in the midst of the city – I can’t think of a single reason why you shouldn’t stay here. In fact, if Mr Connoisseur was a hotel – it would probably be the Valverde Hotel.
Delights & Plights
- Nuno and Ivan are simply the best and can get you anything from train tickets to Portuguese designer soaps.
- The dark colors, patterns, antique paintings and classic furniture brings high street London and New York to Lisbon.
- The intimate pateo area with a heated pool and lots of greenery is ideal for reading, relaxing or taking a morning dip.
- Everyone might not appreciate the lack of a door to the toilet, hope you aren't shy.
Date of stay: May, 2016.
Disclaimer: Mr Connoisseur was kindly invited by the Hotel to experience it for review purposes. All views and opinions expressed in this review are the author's own and has not been affected by the Hotel.
