MYRIAD by SANA Hotels ★★★★★

It didn’t take us long getting from Lisbon Airport to the lively and modern Parque das Nações (Park of Nations) district. Completely revamped and redeveloped for the 1998 World Exposition, it is home to striking contemporary architecture and urban planning designed to impress. Years later, it still does. It is here that you will find the Vasco da Gama tower, a great metallic sail built in tribute to the most famous icon of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. With the later addition of the adjacent Myriad Hotel, its dizzying metal and glass structure soaring 150m above the river, the lone sail was transformed into a complete 15th-century caravel which cuts through the waters of the Tagus.

Entering the lobby, we were dazzled by the vertiginous heights of the atrium. It soars up through the hotel’s centre, glass glittering in the light streaming through the huge windows, or from the colourful contemporary light fittings. The colour scheme is simple black and white with a striking motif of red. At the front desk, we were greeted with the friendliness and professionalism befitting of a five-star hotel.

Our large suite continued the hotel’s sleek, ultramodern design with warming splashes of red, and was interspersed with chic decoration and top-quality facilities. I particularly enjoyed the whirlpool bath and hydro-massage shower. The décor doffs its hat to the sea, with an armchair in the shape of a seashell and decorative features which seem to shimmer like the river reflecting the sun. Speaking of which, our views over the Tagus River were spectacular, and we were treated to a kaleidoscope of blues, yellows and oranges as the sun rose every morning behind the Vasco da Gama Bridge.

After busy days of exploring historical Lisbon. We made sure to spend some relaxation time in the soothing atmosphere of the 23rd floor spa. The pool and sauna really hit the spot, and sweeping views along with our VeryChic discount on treatments were the cherry on top! Meanwhile, the River Lounge Bar was perfect for a scenic aperitif on the terrace, before enjoying dinner at the hotel’s restaurant which combines sumptuous Mediterranean flavours and carefully selected Portuguese wines.

The Myriad proves that futuristic style need not be all about outrageous colours and garish design – this is a simple blend of space, light and luxury. The prestigious five-star service is designed to keep guests comfortable, refreshed and shipshape for discovering the hectic city centre of one of Europe’s most fascinating cities…