As Janelas Verdes ★★★★ - Lisbon Heritage Collection

This 18th-century palace was converted into a boutique hotel with an evidently strong desire to preserve the soul of the building and its history. When we arrived there earlier this year, I was thrilled to step back in time to an 18th-century Lisbon.

As Janelas Verdes brings together the refined luxury of a grand hotel with the welcoming feel of an authentic Lisbon family home. The warm colours are inviting and the local works of art give the shared spaces authenticity. We peered through a set of antique doors to discover a cosy lounge with leather armchairs, honey-coloured bookcases and a grand fireplace.

We then climbed the grand 18th-century staircase before arriving at our room. Decorated in a traditional style, it was spacious and bright thanks to the gorgeous French windows. We had a sweet little bathroom, a comfortable and generous sized bed and antique furnishings that made for a special, authentic feel.

Keen to immerse ourselves in the Lisbon culture, we quickly made our way back downstairs to head off for a little wander around the city. Here at As Janelas Verdes, you are ideally located in the heart of the historic part of Lisbon. We lost ourselves for an hour or two in the narrow streets, in awe of the pretty architecture, patterns and colours, before stopping for a coffee and pastry in a typical Portuguese café. We then slowly made our way back to the hotel, where we were delighted to discover the lovely patio garden, perfect for tranquil moments in between sight-seeing and activities.

We returned to the As Janelas Verdes later in the evening to enjoy a drink on the hotel terrace. Watching the lights reflecting on the Tagus and enjoying the summer breeze, we both agreed that we were at the beginning of a new love affair with Lisbon.