I stayed in a 17th Century Convent… and it was not what I was expecting

What happens when a centuries-old convent gets a ridiculously cool makeover? I give you… Locke de Santa Joana.

Just 15 minutes from Lisbon airport, right next to the city’s biggest park (Parque Eduardo VII) it’s Locke’s first Lisbon outpost—and easily its most unique. Santa Joana, Locke Group's bohemian chic aparthotel, is located in the city’s vibrant centre, and a stone’s throw from Avenida da Liberdade (basically Lisbon’s answer to Fifth Avenue).

If you are a shopaholic like me, this is a danger zone, local stores are peppered among the world’s best designer boutiques. It reminded me a little bit of Paris, I later found out why and it turns out it's no coincidence. After Lisbon’s devastating 1755 earthquake that destroyed the majority of the town, Marquês de Pombal rebuilt the city with Paris in mind. No wonder I found myself comparing it to the Champs-Élysées…

I’d already fallen for Locke de Santa Joana before I'd even packed my bags. The sandy desert tones, dramatic archways, the way old-meets-modern without trying too hard… dreamy. I’m a sucker for a historic building, and staying in a cleverly restored convent? Sold.

Locke were very careful to keep the history of this beautiful 17th-century building intact, while also giving it the ultimate glow-up, thanks to design genius Lázaro Rosa-Violán.

As soon as I stepped foot in the lobby, I was greeted by a group of young, vibrant, smiley people who seemed like they were expecting me. I instantly felt at home.

While Santa Joana is right in the thick of it, step inside, and suddenly, you’re in a whole other world. The courtyard is an unexpected little oasis—rugged, peaceful, and feels about as far from city chaos as you can get. My favourite part of it all was the intimate 360 wooden bar perched next to the small but stunning outdoor pool, perfect to cool off after a day of exploring this beautiful, historical city.

As with all Locke properties, it's an aparthotel, so rooms vary, from one-bedroom apartments to studios with balconies, all equally as charming. Most rooms are on the smaller side, so my advice is to opt for one of the suites if your budget allows. Sleep below the original convent arches in the Convent Apartment, or if you’re feeling real fancy, book the largest suite in the place and stay in ‘The Santa Joana Residence'.

I stayed in one of the beautiful and convenient ground-floor pool studios, which opens up into the centrepiece of the hotel: the chic, art-deco swimming pool. The temperature was a little on the cool side when I arrived, but I was determined to take a dip before I left.

After checking into my comfy room, it was time to explore the bars and decide what to eat.

I strolled through the winding white hallways plastered with original azulejos to find Kissaten, the place to be if you like old music and great whiskey. Kissaten is what's called a ‘Listening room’, with stacks of classic vinyls and a whiskey collection that'll make your jaw drop (150 and counting) chosen and curated by Glasgow-born Whisky expert Dave Broom.

After choosing a few golden olds to vibe out to while I sipped my first cocktail of the trip, I was keen to leave no stone unturned, so I wandered down to Spiritland for another one of their fantastic handcrafted bevvies.

Spiritland is the crown jewel and the beating heart of the hotel. It used to be the library of the old convent, so the centrepiece is a beautifully designed bar. The high ceilings and edgy decor make for a unique spot to enjoy pre-drinks or a delicious nightcap. It's got a really cool feel - a trendy, low-key DJ is tucked in the corner, while young, passionate bartenders serve tasty cocktails from the 360 bar. Open to guests and the public alike, it's a real fun place to start or spend an evening.

Next up, the food, and where to start? Chef Nuno Mendes has explored the globe in search of unusual ingredients and imaginative techniques and trained with top chefs, such as Jean-Georges Vongerichten in New York and London. After hearing this, I knew I was in for a culinary treat.

The first stop was Santa Marta, Locke's Mediterranean eating spot with a terrace overlooking the pretty pool. In true me fashion, I ordered one of everything, and devoured a classic Burrata, a crispy wood-fired margarita, and spicy grilled prawns, all equally delicious. Dining at Santa Marta really feels like you're on holiday, the indoor/outdoor vibe is perfect to let day slip into night whilst you sip wine and chat away with friends or lovers.

Santa Joana, their newest opening, was debuting the following evening, and it did not disappoint. The architecture alone is worth the visit, tables sit on various levels with unique artwork and quirky chandeliers. The history rings through in every part of this place, but with a modern twist - everywhere you look, there's art and design.

The food? Think Portuguese cornbreads, foraged mushrooms, and cauliflower hearts. The star of the show was Locke's take on Paella - seafood rice with juicy crab meat, sweet prawns and lobster. The mixtures of flavours were slightly on the wild side and very unique, but I love trying new things, so I was in my element. Plenty for those who love meat and fish, but there's also a huge array of unique and tasty vegetarian dishes.

The service was slow but the food was delicious; some of the flavours I'd never even tasted before, and as a big foodie who eats almost anything, this was a delightful surprise for me!

Now, fair warning—this isn’t your traditional hotel. No room service, no neatly folded towels left on your bed, but you do get your own beautifully designed space to live in, not just stay in, and honestly, that’s part of the charm. Housekeeping is weekly (unless you request extra), and while there’s no concierge, service is excellent. The front desk team are legends - effortlessly cool people who actually make you want to ask for recommendations.

Aimed at digital nomads and those seeking longer stays, Locke de Santa Joana has plenty of co-working space, meeting rooms, as well as a 24/7 gym, swimming pool, and kitchenettes comprising of everything you need to live for a week or longer, but also perfect for a long weekend. I certainly made the most of all they had to offer during my stay, and I loved how local it was to everything - I walked everywhere (a rarity for me).

If you’re after silver service, this might not be your scene. But if you’re looking for a stylish Lisbon base with history, character, and a little edge Locke de Santa Joana is just the place.

I’m not the kind of girl to frequent the same place twice, but I’d definietly go back to Locke De Santa Joana. Now, excuse me while I start planning my return trip for the summer…

Rooms start from 200EUR per night. You can reserve one here