I surprised my wife for her birthday by flying her first class from the US to Lisbon, Portugal to stay at one of our favorite hotels. She had no idea where I was taking her, and only after leaving breakfast in Rome, Italy and heading to the Lisbon gate, did she realize our destination. We travel all the time and are very fussy.
This was my third time in 9 years back to Hotel Baia with her, and her eighth visit in about 15 years. On arrival at the hotel, Cipriano was still at the front desk to greet us, by name. He has been working the front desk for over 33 years. Sydney was in the bar, his brother still in the restaurant. It is wonderful to return to have the staff still remember us and treat us like family coming home. Knowing it was her birthday, they had a bouquet of roses in our room for her.
Since our last visit in 2007, the hotel has undergone many changes. The new terrace is done and we have eaten outside. The restaurant, dinning/breakfast areas have been upgraded along with the first and fourth floor rooms and a terrace by the swimming pool on the fifth floor has been added. Currently the second and third floors rooms are being redone. The new rooms are airy and welcoming. The hotel has a greater feel than before, more cozy. There is a new chef as the former chef retired. Nuno, the new chef came from a resort in Hong Kong. Again, he is wonderful, taking the time to explain dishes to my wife who is a total foodie (we have a part time personal chef at our Caribbean home) so this was a delight to her. He brings a wonderful touch to the menu which still has all our favorite dishes and has added some of his own signature specials. Our lunches and dinners typically last 2 to 2.5 hours.
The view is still stunning. I spend much of my time on the terrace on my laptop using the high speed WiFi to work, then have long leisurely lunches with my wife, followed by relaxing strolls along the waterfront holding hands. The weather has also been perfect.
This hotel is truly one of the best hotels in this part of Europe for value, friendliness and attentiveness of the staff, the amenities, atmosphere and location. If you want a romantic get away for Valentine or any special occasion, this is the place to come.
- Baia Hotel Cascais
- Hotel Baia Cascais
