Palacete Chafariz D'El Rei

An exquisitely-restored late 19^th century palace, Palacete Chafariz D’El Rei is an utterly stylish private retreat located within walking distance of the Tagus River and main sights of the Alfama district.

• The meticulous attention to detail in the common spaces and suites with influences of Art Nouveau and Neo-Moorish detailing
• The vibrant original stain glass doors that lead to a private terrace overlooking the Tagus river and accented with vibrant hanging flora
• Its intimate setting and exclusive guest-only policy

Tucked away on a winding residential street amidst the bustling Alfama district, Palacete Chafariz D’El Rei—a stylish 6-bedroom inn—is a secret gem quietly perched on a hilltop overlooking the Tagus river. The first owner, João Antonio Santos was a Portuguese businessman who returned to Lisbon after making a fortune in Brazil and caused a stir in the community by building this elaborate palace with eclectic neo-Moorish facades in 1898. It took him almost ten years to finish construction.

Over time, partly due to political turmoil in Lisbon in the late twentieth century, the infrastructure of Palacete Chafariz D’El Rei was neglected until Rui Teixeira and his partner purchased the dilapidated building in 2006. Together, they invested two years to restore its interiors to perfection, but since then the property has changed ownership.

Palacete Chafariz D’El Rei strikes a balance of luxury, opulence and comfort of home. The inn is very private and only guests are allowed. Once you enter, you immediately know you are somewhere special. The heavy wooden front doors lead to an elegant foyer set in pale baby blue, accented with intricate crown-molding and original lanterns, as well as decorative pale yellow and beige floor tiling dating back to the late 19^th century. Through the foyer, there is a private outdoor terrace with chaises hidden amongst overhanging fuchsia and flora overlooking the Tagus river. Before entering the terrace, you can’t help but look up at the exquisite and original colorful late 19^th century stained-glass archway framing the door. The meticulous design pulls you to wander the common spaces, each designed with a signature theme, from Classical to Art Nouveau to Neo-Moorish.

Designed as a home, the six bedrooms are located on the second floor up a narrow winding staircase with walls decorated with beautiful traditional azulejos tiling. Each room is unique in design and personally named by the owners. It is important to reach out to Rui or his colleague to see which room is available for your stay. The Suite Deluxe Vista Rio, aka the Lola room, is surprisingly spacious with beautiful classical décor and a sweeping terrace with amazing views overlooking the Tagus river. The one shortfall of the hotel is that it will be difficult to pull yourself away from your room or the common spaces to explore the city. The hotel serves breakfast and afternoon tea, which is available throughout the day.

Designers, art-enthusiasts, and travelers who prefer a low-key bed and breakfast in an utterly beautiful and calming space located in the buzzing Alfama district