Santa Clara 1728

The team at Santa Clara 1728 do everything in their power to preserve the wow factor of this converted 18th-century building, ensuring dropped jaws and wide eyes on arrival, every time. It’s the Lisbon location from Portuguese small hotel group Silent Living, who are masters of slow, serene stays. There are just six rooms, and high ceilings, breathtaking artwork, unusual fixtures and high-spec fittings delight at every turn. Here, it’s all in the details: the kitchen is left open at night, so peckish guests can help themselves to freshly made bread, cheeses and wine whenever they like. In the bathrooms, freestanding bathtubs and sinks are made from pink limestone, and candles and matches are provided for the ultimate relaxing soak. Breakfast is enjoyed family-style: three courses of locally-sourced organic produce served up to what quickly becomes a small group of new friends, swapping stories and recommendations. Minutes from the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora, you’re not short of incredible things to see. Step out of the hotel on a Tuesday or Saturday and you’ll enter one of the city’s most famous flea market, Feira da Ladra – it’s a riot of unusual antiques and vintage finds.