STYLE COUNSEL
Mama Shelter, Lisbon, Portugal
‘‘ There are DJ sets and live bands on the rooftop up to five times a week
VIBE
Panoramic views over the Portuguese capital stretch for miles from the rooftop bar of the newly launched and rather eccentric Mama Shelter Lisboa.
From the city’s mish-mash of terracotta rooftops to Europe’s longest suspension bridge over the Tagus River, guests can soak up the sights to the beats of the DJ spinning the decks from up on the ninth floor – comparatively high for Lisbon.
Grab an Aperol spritz as you relax on the Balinese beds in amongst the elaborately tiled tables and colour-popping cushions, or try one of the venue’s signature cocktails.
Night launches into full swing with DJ sets and live bands performing on the 200-capacity rooftop, up to five times a week.
STYLE
In the sexy signature style of the French family-run chain, the new Mama
Lisboa promises a fun, playful atmosphere from the outset.
With the prominent displays of sex toys, condoms and erotic oils in reception, it’s clear that anything goes. In the 130 rooms, along with the free wi-fi, organic toiletries and photo booths, X-rated films are all part of the package.
Ceilings are decorated with distinctive black and white sardine prints – one of many customdesigned nods to Portuguese culture.
FOOD AND DRINK
Succulent chargrilled octopus, caramelised aubergine, steak tartare and cod fish caesar salad are just some of the local classics and French specialities on offer.
There are also Mama favourites such as cheeseburgers and steaks as well as the chain’s famous pizzas from €10. Brunch is best after a big night out – try the prawn and pulled pork tacos, fruit tarts and creme brulee, get social with a cheese and charcuterie sharing platter, then hit the cocktails named after some of Portugal’s famous faces.
WHAT TO DO
Start the day with a spinning session or yoga class up on Mama’s rooftop. Stretching out the aches from the night before while breathing in the clean air and taking in the view was exactly what was needed after some firstnight overindulgence.
You can book a surfing lesson on the Costa da Caparica with its crashing Atlantic waves and glorious sandy beaches. I was part of a group of novices and hadn’t expected to see so many of us standing up, riding the waves after only an hour.
Afterwards stroll down to the relaxed beach club, Irmao, which is hidden in the dunes. Soak up the ‘no worries’ surf vibes over cocktails brought to your sunbed, Bali bed or in the gypsy saloon.
Back in town, just a 15-minute walk from the hotel is the gorgeous shopping gallery of Embaixada. Located in the Ribeiro da Cunha Palace, one of the most emblematic buildings of the trendy Príncipe Real neighbourhood, it brings together designers, fashion, crafts, cuisine and Portuguese culture with soulful Fado concerts at the grand entrance. To sample food from some of Portugal’s best chefs, visit the city’s Time Out market, a buzzy, upbeat food hall in Cais do Sodre.
Then explore the Alfama old town with its steep cobbled streets, as well as the bohemian Bairro Alto area where you must take a ride on the cute yellow cars of the Ascensor da Bica and Ascensor da Glória up and down Lisbon’s famous hills.