Louboutin's Luxurious Haven: Discovering Vermelho in the Charming Village of Melides
Travel & Lifestyle
March 14, 2024
Tucked away in the serene Portuguese village of Melides, a hidden gem awaits discovery. Despite its proximity to Lisbon and the neighboring Comporta, this quaint hamlet exudes an old-world charm reminiscent of a bygone era. At its heart lies a picturesque cobblestoned square, flanked by rustic family-owned eateries and terracotta-roofed cottages adorned with wrought-iron balconies. Just a brief 10-minute drive from the village center lies a pristine golden beach, offering a tranquil retreat along the Alentejo coast.
However, winds of change are beginning to sweep through Melides. Amidst the winding lanes and shuttered storefronts, a grand door crafted from dark wood signals the arrival of a transformative venture: Vermelho, the inaugural hotel venture from renowned shoemaker Christian Louboutin. With just 13 rooms, this boutique accommodation promises to usher in a new era of sophistication while preserving the region's natural tranquility.
Christian Louboutin
Photo courtesy: Christian Louboutin / Vermelho Hotel
Louboutin's connection to Melides dates back over a decade when he stumbled upon the picturesque town during a chance encounter. Enamored by its idyllic setting bordered by lush forests and a sprawling lagoon, the designer acquired a fisherman's house along its shores. Now, with Vermelho, he seeks to share the raw beauty of his surroundings with a discerning clientele, drawing attention to a region often overshadowed by Portugal's bustling cities and tourist hotspots.
Photo courtesy: Christian Louboutin / Vermelho Hotel
Designed in collaboration with Portuguese architect Madalena Caiado, Vermelho's exterior blends seamlessly into its surroundings with its powdery blue and white façade, gently sloped roofs, and intricately carved chimneys. Step inside, and you're greeted by an eclectic fusion of Portuguese, French, and Egyptian influences, reflecting Louboutin's diverse heritage and global inspirations.
Photo courtesy: Christian Louboutin / Vermelho Hotel
From the coffered ceilings to the stunning azulejo mural adorning the reception area, each detail is meticulously curated to create a harmonious yet captivating ambiance. In the communal spaces, glass tiles reminiscent of Rajasthani palaces mingle with vintage Bollywood posters, while scarlet accents pay homage to Louboutin's iconic red soles.
Photo courtesy: Christian Louboutin / Vermelho Hotel
While the public areas exude opulence and grandeur, the guest rooms offer a more serene retreat, adorned with charming hand-painted tiles and tasteful furnishings. Polished parquet floors, Moorish side tables, and Murano glass-style wall lamps evoke a sense of understated elegance, while outdoor spaces provide a tranquil setting to soak in the sun and savor the natural beauty of Melides.
Photo courtesy: Christian Louboutin / Vermelho Hotel
Yet, it's the unexpected touches that truly set Vermelho apart. Each suite boasts its own unique character, adorned with hand-selected treasures from Louboutin's personal collection. From Indian tapestries to rattan monkeys-turned-tables, every corner reveals a new delight, inviting guests to embark on a journey of discovery.
Photo courtesy: Christian Louboutin / Vermelho Hotel
As guests unwind in the luxurious surroundings of Vermelho, they're invited to embrace the unhurried pace of local life. Whether lounging on the rooftop terrace or indulging in a sumptuous meal at the on-site restaurant Xtian, there's an undeniable sense of tranquility that permeates every aspect of the experience.
Photo courtesy: Christian Louboutin / Vermelho Hotel
Looking ahead, Louboutin's vision for Vermelho extends beyond its walls, with plans for additional properties in the surrounding pine woods and along the picturesque coastline. As Melides emerges as a sought-after destination on Portugal's tourism map, Vermelho stands as a testament to the enduring allure of this hidden gem and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead.
Newsletter
Subscribe to Porterium Magazine's newsletters.
Follow us
Follow us on social media platforms.
©Copyright. All rights reserved.
We need your consent to load the translations
We use a third-party service to translate the website content that may collect data about your activity. Please review the details in the privacy policy and accept the service to view the translations.