LISBON, PORTUGAL— With the completion of a three-phase major renovation program, Lapa Palace, Orient-Express Hotels Lisbon landmark, has been refurbished and updated to ensure guests comfort. The renovations provided new guest accommodations, a new restaurant, business center and recreational facilities. Highlighting the additions to the 109-room Lapa Palace is a separate three-story villa containing eight new guestrooms, four junior suites and two suites, all with private balconies. In addition, all guestrooms were refurbished with interiors designed to capture the character, traditions and colors of Portugal. Many of the countrys finest artisans and craftsmen contributed to the design and furnishings, according to Orient-Express Hotels. Materials for the curtains, bed linen and upholstery were purchased from well-known fabric houses including Colefax & Fowler, Osborne & Little and Nobilis-Fontan in London. While maintaining a classic style, rooms were given 21st century amenities including pop-up television screens, modems, air-conditioning, satellite television, two telephone lines, marble bathrooms (some with jacuzzi), mini-bars and in-room safes. Another addition to Lapa Palace is the Business Center, featuring computers with laser color printers, a fax machine, scanner, photocopier, Internet access and modems wired for international accessibility. Improvements to Lapa Palaces recreational facilities have also been made. The outdoor swimming pool has been deepened and heated for year-round use, and new poolside services have been added. Situated on a hilltop overlooking the city, the resort was originally built for royalty in 1870 and opened as an exclusive luxury retreat in 1992.
