hot spots

Palacio Belmonte

Where? At the foot of Castelo de Sao Jorge, a ninth-century stronghold, in Lisbon.

Historic, then? Just a bit. Surrounded by medieval streets, this 15th-century palace is one of the city's best-kept secrets, offering eight suites and two apartments secreted around a maze of stone stairways.

So space is a priority? Indeed. The suites measure from 40 square metres to 230 square metres, and the only place you're likely to bump into other guests is in the organic garden, complete with achingly hip black marble pool.

Must have cost an arm and a leg to restore? HK$129 million, to be precise. The project was undertaken by French businessman, Fredric Coustols, who spent six years creating a fabulously authentic palace that throbs with contemporary chic.

Examples, please? Well, the deliberately simple decor blends old with new - a piece of contemporary art here, a 17th-century chest there - while the suites combine Portuguese furniture and furnishings with 21st-century trappings such as Bose stereos, fax and Internet facilities. (Square eyes beware: there are no TVs.)

Any rooms of particular note? The sprawling Fernando Pessoa suite, named after Portugal's literary hero, has a stunningly striated marble bathroom, while the walls of the octagonal sitting room in the Bartolomeu do Gusmao suite are lined with 18th-century azulejos - the region's vibrant blue-painted tiles.

Who goes there? Models, museum curators and literary types who love the writing room situated in a Roman tower. The hotel has also received the royal seal of approval from Prince Charles, thanks to its eco cred.

Green, too, huh? Featuring specially developed lime mortar that absorbs humidity, plus natural ventilation and lighting (yes, there is electricity), the Palacio consumes only a tenth of the energy gobbled up by comparable buildings.

Is there a restaurant? Regional fare is available from The Caf Belmonte, and there are also a number of excellent bistros nearby.

Anything else we should know? Despite its size, the Palacio is not a bustling bell-hop sort of place. Instead, the Coustols ensure your every need is met - from a tour of the city to a massage in your room.

Single suite 150 euros (HK$1,360); double suites from 450-1,900 euros per night, including breakfast. Pateo Don Fradique 14, 1100-624 Lisbon. Tel: 351 21 886 2582; www.palaciobelmonte.com