The DNA: Hermitage Castelo’s French-Swedish artist owners Katarina Hallbäck Monnier and Jules Monnier have a passion for Lisbon. On a mission to renovate traditional and historical buildings for the benefit of the city, and to offer visitors a slice of authentic Lisbon living. The ethos is ‘Lagom’, a Swedish way of life meaning ‘just the right amount’ which extends beyond design. Mixing with Portuguese tradition in its exclusive historical buildings make for memorable stays in the heart of this enchanting city. Both Katarina’s vibrant oil paintings and Jules’ photographs depicting the Portuguese way of life are on display.
The Santos location, known as Casa Chafariz has a striking, cherry-red façade. The historic building takes its name from the adjacent to the Chafariz da Esperança, a public fountain that dates to 1760 and was classified as a Portuguese national monument in 1910. Santos is known as Lisbon’s design district and is also home to a large number of restaurants, shops and a local market. The Tagus River (which can be viewed from some of the apartments) is a short stroll away. The 5 apartments are distributed over four floors and have bright, homely interiors with modern furnishings and heritage details; expect stucco ceilings and exposed beams. With th renovation comes insulation between floors as well as double glass windows. Apartments range from a one bedroom sleeping 2 adults to a two bedroom apartment sleeping up to 6 adults plus a child. All come with a fully-equipped, monochrome marble kitchen with a stove, fridge, freezer, coffee maker, toaster and kettle. A French-style breakfast can be delivered on request to the door each morning, consisting of croissants, pain au chocolat, orange juice and coffee/tea. There is even a dishwasher, iron and ironing board while two apartments also have a washing machine.
✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 5 apartments (40-108m2) (431-1,163 sq ft) • hotel opened: 2018 • bathroom amenities: Damana • parking possible nearby (charged) • no pets allowed • 24-hour access by electronic keypad • two-night minimum stay
