Get all your news in one place.

100’s of premium titles.
One app.

Start reading

Get all your news in one place.

100’s of premium titles. One news app.

Start reading

The Independent UK

Rachel Everett

Four Seasons Ritz hotel review, Lisbon

Lisbon Four Seasons Luxury the Four Seasons Michelin CURA Portugal

Enjoy White Lotus-style luxury at Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon. From the moment you walk through the door, at this landmark hotel, every detail will have been considered. From sprawling suites with pillow menus and fanciful dining spaces with super attentive staff to poolside pop-ups and private tours to the Portuguese Riviera, you’ll be treated like the A-list

Location

The Four Seasons Ritz sits among the prime real estate at Lisbon’s centre and is a short walk from Lisbon’s tree-flanked, boutique-laden boulevard, Avenida da Liberdade. From here, it’s easy to get anywhere really: there are trains to Sintra and Cascais – or, ask your own private driver for a tour of the Portuguese Riviera instead.

The vibe

The Four Seasons Ritz is in a prime location in Lisbon (Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon)

In signature Four Seasons style, from the moment you enter the hotel, you are made to feel special, with smart doormen taking your bags and elegantly dressed staff members ushering you in. It’s like a greeting straight out of The White Lotus (while Portugal is yet to be featured, the deluxe hotel brand’s resorts are famously used as a filming location for the hit show). Even the reception check in is impressively bling and efficient – before you take the gold elevator to one of the spacious suites, peering down onto rows of trees and the spectacular rooftop running track. The vibe is pure unashamed luxury.

Service

Lisbon’s Four Seasons Ritz exudes luxury (Four Seasons Ritz)

The exceptional team take pride in their work – it almost seems rude to adjust something the staff have created. From the reception staff who go above and above to make a stay excellent to the restaurant and bar waiters with their meticulous service, shiny silver trays and gentle humour. And even the breakfast staff who – if you have an insanely early flight – will send you off with super-strong coffee and a beautiful box of pastries.

Bed and bath

Rooms have neutral colour palettes (Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon)

There are 286 rooms and four suites, with no luxuries spared. The design is classical in style, featuring old-world luxury with lots of opulent details. Rooms are big and have neutral colour palettes with wrap-around windows; some with outdoor terraces. There are extra-wide beds to sink into, pillow menus and rainfall showers. The element of space cannot be overlooked; the in-room breakfast set-up is mighty – a fine culinary spread, all laid out with fine china and crisp napkins – the omelettes were spot on. Tip: go for a room on one of the higher floors boasting vast views of Lisbon and beyond.

Food and drink

Dine with a view at this Four Seasons Ritz hotel (Four Seasons Ritz)

The hotel has five restaurants, and the highlights are Michelin-starred CURA (one Michelin star) helmed by Chef Rodolfo Lavrador, Veranda, the main fine-dining restaurant and Japanese spot, Iki, which was a poolside pop-up when I visited. CURA, with its modern tasting menus – there are two – has a wonderful open kitchen and private entrance. Meanwhile, the fanciful surroundings at Veranda are unique and beautifully formal (and it’s also the breakfast destination). Alternatively, Iki is far removed from the fuss, serving up the finest sushi in a more low-key location.

Facilities

The lobby seating area at Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon (Four Seasons Ritz Lisbon)

The chic spa is a level above: there are expert therapists and bespoke treatments, big indoor and outdoor pools, a handsome health suite and an elevated running track looking down on the city. I’d heartily recommend the Digital Detox massage. The hotel has a host of experiences on offer, such as private fado concerts, yacht charters and trips along the Portuguese Riviera to Cascais and Sintra – escorted by a personal driver. The latter is a great way to see more of Portugal, with an experienced local guide. Ask for Viktor, who is a font of knowledge and an insider on the best pastel de nata.