The long-anticipated Vermelho Melides hotel by French footwear designer Christian Louboutin is open, and it is as luxurious, gasp-inducing and comfortable as a pair of Louboutin studded stilettos. Vermelho, which means “red” in Portuguese, is a nod to the designer’s iconic color as found in the red-lacquered soles of his shoe collections. That reference, however, is the only association to his fashion roots, as Vermelho Melides stands on its own as an impressive, exclusive boutique hotel nestled into a traditional Portuguese village.
The artistry and sense of style of Louboutin can be found in every element and square meter of the hotel. Curated items and custom finishes are sourced from international artists as well as local craftspeople. There are garden sculptures and ornamental architectural pieces by Italian artist Giuseppe Ducrot. A stunning chandelier with sea urchins as lamps was created by French artist Nicolás Cesbron. Indian artists Prateek Jain and Gautam Seth used blown glass for their extraordinary mural chandelier at the reception desk. Greek painter Konstantin Kakanias decorated walls in the rooms. Noted goldsmith studio Villarreal, in Seville, produced a beautifully-intricate cocktail bar in hammered silverleaf. Local shop Vida Dura was called upon to supply artisan dinnerware and lamps. And the list goes on, with one-of-a-kind artworks, decorative finishings and unique furniture pieces.
Although much attention was placed on design, a focus on comfort and serenity is also quite evident. There are only 13 rooms at Vemelho Melides. Each one is different in layout, finishings or artwork. And, each one is generous in size starting at 30sqm for the Double Vista Verde to 84sqm for the Suite Matinha. Antique and contemporary furniture and décor blend to make an appealing ambiance. The large bathrooms are highlighted with azulejos tiles from Fábrica de Azulejos de Azeitão.
The property itself is designed to have a luxury villa feel….where guests mingle in social areas such as the Indian lounge, a rooftop terrace, bar lounge and garden patio. An abundance of flowers and greenery adorn the landscaping. A short walk through the vegetable garden brings guests to the pool area for basking in the sun and taking a dip in the water.
Xtian Restaurant (pronounced “Christian,” of course) serves breakfast, and is open for lunch and dinner. Louboutin insisted that the menu be Portuguese, providing more authenticity to its small village location. Not intended to be pretentious dining, dishes are prepared with a “twist,” elevating traditional favorites into a fun, creative and delicious experience. Already, Xtian has become a destination restaurant for foodies in the region and from Lisbon.
Indeed, Vermelho Melides is in a remote village. If you’re there to escape city life, the location is peaceful and ideal for relaxing. An on-site wellness room offers holistic massages based in Ayurvedic techniques, as well as facial and body treatments using renowned Anne Sémonin products. If you feel the need for sand beneath your feet, the wide and pristine Melides beach is just a 10-minute drive. Want to be social? The popular boho chic Comporta village and beaches are 15 minutes away.
Step away from your life and into a realm of style and relaxation. Learn more at the Vermelho Melides website.
Vermelho Melides
Rua Dr. Evaristo Sousa Gago, 2
Melides
Alentejo
Phone: +351 915 280 511
Email: welcome@vermelhomelides.pt
Vermelho Melides is not recommended for children.
