A delightful apartment in the Alfama area of Lisbon surrounded by lovely old buildings, close to the Castle S. Jorge together with some very good cafes in the neighbourhood. With a wonderful view over the rooftops, the estuary in the mid distance and the statue of Cristo Rei blessing the people of Lisbon on the opposite hill, Marcia’s home is perfectly situated. Moreover the apartment is a pleasure to use as it’s been thoughtfully and stylishly renovated with some exquisite touches, for example, the lovely marble sinks in the kitchen and bathrooms and a beautiful shower. It is well equipped with dishwasher, washing machine and cooking facilities. The interior is minimalist with a few well-chosen vintage accessories. The icing on the cake is undeniably the roof space where one can sit and contemplate the changing character of the city from dawn to dusk and beyond. My own preference was to sit on the roof with a cup of tea in the very early morning and to watch the day break over Lisbon. The perfect meditation.
On a practical note the apartment is well managed by the Lisbon Concierge Company. Check in time was strictly at 14h plus, so I chose to sit and have coffee at the airport until the transfer company picked me up as it was my first visit to Lisbon and was unfamiliar with the territory. The experience turned out to be efficient and professional. Marcia’s communication was good and she invariably responded to enquiries within reasonable time.
I would recommend using the transfer service to the apartment which was 20 Euro in a roomy, air-conditioned taxi that took less than 30 minutes to arrive. Up the hill, behind the apartment, are some very good bars and cafes serving delicious local dishes and wines, there’s also a little Ginjinha bar serving the local cherry liqueur which has to be tried at least once. Nearer S. Jorge Castle I found a good French restaurant, Grenache, at the Patio de Dom Fradique. Somewhat more expensive than the regional eateries but splendid food and perfect for a holiday treat. Eating and drinking aside, one of the cultural highlights for me was to visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum.
Marcia, it’s been a pleasure. Thank you.