Fodor's Expert Review Olissippo Lapa Palace

Housed in an elegant 19th-century manor house, the aptly-named Lapa Palace simply oozes historic charm. From the fountains and fish ponds in the extensive grounds to the ornate decor and the walls hung with portraits of grand former occupants, a stay here feels like stepping back in time. Indoor and outdoor pools bring things up to date, as does the stylish spa with a gym, sauna, and steam bath. Each of the 109 rooms is individually designed, and all feature glorious views as well as high-end amenities and ornate fixtures and fittings that are in keeping with the overall sense of historic grandeur. Ideal for a romantic break, the Lapa Palace (formerly owned by Orient Express, it's now part of the Ollissipo stable) is also a good choice for families thanks to some nice touches such as a kids' pool, "baby concierge" and babysitting services. A bar serving afternoon tea, as well as coffee and cocktails, is a pleasant place for lounging, and the restaurant serves high-quality Portuguese cuisine.

This grand dame hotel in one of Lisbon's most upscale--and quietest--neighborhoods is more suited to quiet contemplation than all-night partying.

room

Reflecting its grand heritage, accommodations at the Lapa Palace are split into three wings--the Garden Wing, Palace Wing, and separate Villa Lapa. Each room and suite have its own unique design and all feature richly-ornate fixtures and fittings such as beautifully-carved reproductions of period furniture. Standard rooms have glorious views over the gardens and out the river, while suites have balconies--some even have their own turrets. All rooms have mod cons such as cable TV and Wi-Fi

YOU SHOULD KNOW The exclusive Villa Lapa has its own gardens but, as a modern addition to the building, lacks some of the historic charm of the other wings.

bathroom

Marble bathrooms continue the hotel's elegant theme, and some have double sinks and separate showers. Some suites have hydromassage tubs, and the L'Occitane amenities further enhance the experience.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Some (but not all) bathrooms are adapted to meet the needs of disabled guests. Ask before you book if this is an issue.

lobby

A stay at Lapa Palace is all about recalling the grandeur of a bygone age, and the illusion of living the lifestyle of aristocratic 19th Century folk begins as soon as you step into the lobby, where the hanging chandeliers, carved wooden furnishings, and ornate lamps are matched by the cordial greetings of the reception staff. The Tejo Bar, with its relaxed seating and extensive menu of teas, wines, and snacks, is found right next to the lobby.

24 room service and check in/out are available.

pool

The hotel's large outdoor pool has a sun deck and separate kids' pool, set in lovely gardens. An indoor heated pool in the spa means guests can still swim during winter stays.

A pool bar serving drinks and snacks is open during the summer season.

dining

Formal dining is on offer at the suitably grand Lapa Restaurant, which is open to non-guests and has a good reputation for refined versions of Mediterranean dishes. Service is attentive, the decor is opulent, and the wine list is both extensive and well-chosen. An in-house patisserie cooks up elaborate sweet concoctions for dessert. Breakfast is served at outdoor tables in the summer and is a predictably lavish affair.

The room service menu goes beyond standard sandwiches and salads--think caviar, blinis, and hand-prepared pastries.

drinking

The Tejo Bar has a plush interior, but when the sun shines (as it does for much of the year in Lisbon) the terrace is the place to be--sipping a cocktail or glass of wine while drinking in great river views. A non-boozy option is the popular afternoon tea menu, which and there's live piano music from Tuesday to Saturday. From May-September, the outdoor Pool bar (Le Pavillion) serves al-fresco light meals, canapes, and drinks.