Following a seven hour flight from Toronto to Lisbon, my wife and I were extremely exhausted, yet thankful that we made it to our destination safely. Upon entering the hotel, we were warmly greeted by an employee named Tânia. Before checking us into our room, Tânia offered us a cup of coffee (it was 11am) and proceeded to give us a list of recommendations for food and activities.
Since we were quite early (check in is at three), Tânia could not officially check us into our rooms. However, she offered us glasses of wine from the lobby bar, safely placed and locked our suitcases in a back room, and invited us to relax in the cozy lobby area. As lunchtime neared, my wife and I decided to check out Grilled and Company (one of the restaurants recommended by Tânia). In addition to enjoying lunch, we decided to mingle around the very walkable surrounding areas.
After mingling around town and doing some shopping, we returned to Dare Lisbon House (DLH) where Tânia had our room keys ready. Before setting us loose, Tânia explained to us that there would be eggs in the room's fridge (the room has an electric stove), and every morning a bag of fresh bread would be delivered at our door. She also explained that the hot water in the shower only lasts for 10 minutes; therefore, I would have to cut my traditional 30 minute shower short (she did not say that part).
We were thoroughly impressed with the cozy, and quiet room. The room had great lighting, comfortable living room seating, a microwave (for reheating those delicious cod cakes that you couldn't finish), a fridge (for storing a bottle or two of vinho verde), and a stovetop (for cooking breakfast + additional meals).
Although my wife and I were looking forward to the next stop on our tour of Portugal (Madera), we were sad to leave DLH. In the three days that we were there, we had some great conversations with Tânia and some of the hotel guests. In addition, we greatly appreciated the wonderful recommendations that Tânia made. Before checking out, Tânia assisted us with booking an all-day historical tour of Lisbon (the final leg of our Portugal tour had us returning to Lisbon).
If you're looking for a boutique hotel with friendly staff, free wine & coffee (in the lobby), a comfortable and quiet room, and in close proximity to many restaurants & stores, I would highly recommend Dare Lisbon House! read more