FOUR SEASONS RITZ, Lisbon

The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon has long been considered the city's finest hotel, reflecting the nobility and charm of historic Portugal, and offering vistas of Eduardo VII Park, St. George's Moorish castle, the Old Town and the Tagus River from atop one of Lisbon's seven hills.

In addition the hotel houses an amazing collection of contemporary art which represents the region's rich history and its vibrant present. In the lounge named after him, tapestries by Jose de Almada Negreiros reveal the influence of Picasso in their bold lines, bright colour palette and somewhat suggestive themes. The Centauro series tells the story of two males competing for the attention of a female, with one claiming victory in the final tapestry. A large mural by the same artist, 'Harvest', hangs in the Lobby Gallery, while another tapestry artist, Pedro Leitao, created several hangings especially for the Hotel, including 'Portalegre' in the Ritz Bar. In the ballroom another tapestry, 'Day and Night ', depicts the flora and fauna of the same region.

As one would expect of a hotel of this class, the guest rooms and suites are bright and spacious and welcome with an ambience of residential comfort. Of the 282 guest rooms and suites, 272 open to private terraces. Views from the 10-storey building encompass the Hotel's gardens, Eduardo VII Park, St. George's Castle, the Old Town, the Tagus River and the 25th of April Bridge - a replica of San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge.

Contemporary styling offers a variety of colour schemes. For entertainment, there are plasma LCD televisions with DVD/CD players. Business conveniences include a working desk, high-speed Internet access and dual-line telephones. Lavish marble bathrooms each offer twin basins, a separate bath and glass-enclosed shower and a private WC with bidet. Plush cotton towels are warmed on heated racks, and fine toiletries are replenished by twice-daily housekeeping.

Lisbon's most sophisticated choice for dining, Four Seasons delights guests with award-winning cuisine, an extensive wine cellar and a glittering terrace above the city. Varanda menus feature Portuguese regional specialities and a selection of the freshest seafood, while the Ritz Bar offers the opportunity to sip the rarest Port, while nestled in sumptuous comfort.

The hotel is also equipped with a multi-sensory Spa, spectacular rooftop fitness studio and numerous meeting rooms,with the banqueting room accommodating up to 500 guests under the crystal chandeliers.

With its superlative service and sumptuous luxury the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon provides discerning travellers with the very best a hotel can offer.