The very thought of a vacation in a former palace conjures up images of old world decadence and royal treatment, which I never dreamt of experiencing in this lifetime. Tivoli Palácio de Seteais really did live up to these expectations and treated us like a King and Queen.

Guests are initially greeted by the impressive sight of the imposing main building, surrounded by a sprawling and impeccably manicured landscape. I thought we were on a movie set, flashback to the 19th Century, but we were on vacation in Sintra, Portugal.

The fine architecture and attention to detail in the décor is breathtaking. From the period furniture and sweeping staircases to the grand reception halls serving food fit for a King. Inside, wandering the corridors to our room, the building is laden with rich tapestries and paintings from the 17th – 19th Centuries.

Before our trip, the courteous staff exchanged emails with me over my husband’s birthday. We were both taken aback when, behind our closed door, they had laid a bucket of champagne on ice and sweet treats. This gesture was typical of the staff, who were always attentive, generous and incredibly welcoming throughout our stay.

If you’re after a homogeneous American style hotel-chain ambience, this isn’t a place for you. But if you want to stay somewhere that has rich history and genuine character, where the two of you will feel like royalty, you should visit the Palácio de Seteais.