Dreaming of a romantic break away for two before the mania of the festive season sets in?

Lisbon has over the past eyar or so emerged as one of the absolute trendiest cities in Europe to visit, and if you too are tempted to take a trip to the charming Portugese capital, well then you might care to know that luxury hotel guide Mr and Mrs Smith just crowned Casa Fortunato in Lisbon their '2019 Best Hotel' at its annual awards.

The beautiful former townhouse in the elegant neighbourhood of Amoreiras in Lisbon has been transformed into a nine-suite boutique hotel, and interestingly, the entire hotel was designed by owners and architects António Falcão Costa Lopes and Filipa Fortunato, who also live in the building with their four children and dog!

At the awards, the Art Deco property was praised for its "stylish statements, exceptional service and next-generation guesthouse approach". Each suite has a unique appeal, although there is a commonality of modern and classic design throughout, as well as a focus on eclecticism which offers a homely feel. "Every year we’re bowled over by amazing stays with incredible stories but this year’s winners list feels particularly strong," said Mr and Mrs Smith founder James Lohan. "And in the overall winner we’ve got a hotel that embodies the very concept of ‘boutique’ – a unique, family-run, nine-suite townhouse in the city of the moment which we hope even more people will now discover and enjoy." The hotel only has nine bedrooms, and here is what the owners have to say about this: "We only have nine bedrooms which we consider to be very fortuitous, this is because ‘nine’ is a sacred number, not only does it represent wisdom but it is also the symbol of completion and fulfilment. Nine is thought to be a number of great magic and power, and we believe that Casa Fortunato echoes this through the unique and individual atmosphere that she radiates." Oh, and should you want to incorporate some wellness into your stay at Casa Fortunato, there are daily yoga classes, delicious communal meals, and calming therapies on offer too. Sounds like utter bliss, and now we really want to go!