Perched

Perched
atop the highest of Lisbon‘s
seven hills, just beyond the historic Alfama neighbourhood,
Dona Graça Apartments brings
together minimalist style and Portuguese allure.

Housed in a refurbished 19th-century building in the sleepy
Graça quarter, Dona Graça Apartments draws travellers with its
airy, minimalist studios decked out with touches that are oh-so
Lisbon. After an afternoon of exploring, take shelter from the heat
in the orange tree-filled private garden or submerge yourself in
the delightfully inviting pool.

Bedrooms

There are eight apartments to choose from, including Comfort
Studios which overlook the hotel’s garden and pool. For those in
need of more space, try the Family Suite which also benefits from
private access to the central garden. Taking cue from minimalist
Scandanavian interiors, the bedrooms balance whitewashed walls with
luxurious touches. The en-suite bathroom is light and airy,
featuring a wonderfully deep tub and botanical features, as well as
an adjoining wet room finished with Moorish tiles. Dona Graça is
tucked away on a quiet street in the older part of the city, far
from the noise of Barrio Alto, so you are guaranteed a deep and
peaceful sleep.

What’s for breakfast?

Reminiscent of early childhood Christmases and brimming
stockings at the foot of the bed, a breakfast hamper awaits guests
outside their room each morning, filled with deliciously buttery
croissants, homemade spreads, pasteis de nata, crunchy granola,
yoghurt and – the best part – freshly squeezed orange juice,
straight from the garden.

How about lunch and dinner?

Each apartment is houses an open-plan limestone and wood
kitchen, adjoined to the living room. This gives guests the freedom
to whip something up and make the most of their home away from
home. The Plano Restaurante, led by chef Vitor Adão, officially
opened at the start of October
and is open every evening for dinner. This indoor restaurant takes
a similar format to live-show cooking over an open flame and
grill-based cuisine, while serving a carefully curated selection of
Portuguese wines. There was a soft launch in August
during which Vitor hosted supper clubs in the private garden for
both guests and visitors from across Lisbon.

Is there a bar?

There are some lovely little wine shops nearby, at which you can
stock up on vinho verde for a refreshing sundowner in the garden.
Alternatively, the neighbourhood of Mouraria is a short walk away
and a great area to go out for drinks, with lots of interesting
little bars.

Amenities

Dona Graça has a central garden with a sleek swimming pool where
guests can enjoy a much needed dip and some respite from the hustle
and bustle of the city. During the day the hotel is remarkably
quiet, with people going out to explore the city, so you may be
lucky enough to enjoy the pool to yourself.

Things I should know…

Attentive staff can recommend an array of spots for exploring as
well as eating. Equipped with this knowledge, prepare to be
immersed in Portugusese culture and cuisine.

Within a short walk I can find…

… no-frills local restaurants for a well-deserved lunch or
dinner after a long day of sightseeing – just ask the manager,
Antonio, to make you a reservation at one of his recommended spots.
Make your way to Miradouro da Graça, an exceptional viewpoint with
vistas stretching across the city to the other side of the
river.