Montecarmo12

Montecarmo 12 is more than a stylish boutique hotel. Occupying a quaint corner in the neighborhood of Príncipe Real, the building is a piece of Lisbon’s history, and it’s been thoughtfully transformed by one of the country’s most prominent architecture firms. The Portuguese brothers behind Aires Mateus are known for their exploration of light, geometric lines, and empty spaces. Their minimalist, less-is-more philosophy is on display here, from the choice of fine materials — local limestone, traditional tiles, rich blonde wood — to the simple, elegant guest rooms flooded with sunshine and perfumed with natural fragrances crafted from hand-picked lavender and rosemary.

Quiet luxury is a guiding principle throughout the hotel, starting with the sleek open kitchen on the ground level, where a leisurely vegetarian brunch is served every morning around a large oak table. Afternoon tea is available on request in the quiet reading room or on the patio. Upstairs, guest rooms have high ceilings and windows, pale parquet flooring, and luxurious beds on custom wooden platforms. Bathrooms are surprisingly spacious, lined with iridescent pearl-like tiles and featuring ultra-modern double vanities and standalone soaking tubs. French doors open onto tiny wrought-iron balconies or, in the case of the best rooms, more sizeable terraces with views over the Tagus River and the city’s red rooftops.