Cristiano Ronaldo opens his second hotel

The Real Madrid star has expanded his property business with a second boutique, this time in Portugal’s capital

It’s been quite the international break for Cristiano Ronaldo, back on home soil in his role as the conquering hero after leading Portugal to their first ever major footballing triumph this summer.

Ronaldo’s Euro 2016 final against France was a tale of tears and then triumph, going off injured before playing his part in their win from the sidelines.

But having dragged the Seleccao to the final, the trophy was just reward for the 31-year-old, another honour for his legacy.

This past week saw his first internationals since, and the Real Madrid superstar didn’t disappoint, scoring five goals in two games as Fernando Santos’ European champs took maximum points in their quest for a World Cup finals spot in 2018.

However, football wasn’t the only thing on the mind of CR7 as he returned to Lisbon.

Increasingly looking towards the future as he moves into other areas away from football, the Portuguese icon took to the streets of the capital, to open his latest venture.

“Life is not just about football,” Ronaldo said. “Although football is my grand passion, I must start to think about the future.”

For Ronaldo, part of that future is nestled on the corner of a side street in downtown Lisbon, a mere stones throw away from the bustling square of Praça do Comércio, lies his £54million property investment.

From the outside it looks just like every other boutique hotel in the city, but Pestana CR7 Lisbon’s Art Deco-inspired interior has a modern edge, which pays homage to the Real Madrid star’s career, right from when you first enter the lobby.

“Your love makes me strong. Your hate makes me unstoppable,” frames the reception desk – a quote from the man himself.

Of course, Ronaldo has claimed honour after honour during his illustrious career: three Ballon d’Or’s, three Champions League titles, Real Madrid’s all-time record goalscorer to name but a few.

And upon taking the lift up to your room, the animated screens chart the story of his professional life, while you get an extra burst of energy with the surround sound sensors in the staircases, projecting the sounds of cheering fans.

A nice touch.

The 82-room lifestyle hotel is the second for Ronaldo, who opened his first with the Pestana group in his home island of Madeira in the summer, with plans to open a further two in 2017 – in Madrid and New York.

All rooms come equipped with high speed Internet as well as 48” screens with Apple TV and speakers, but tech-obsessed fans of the star might want to go all out and upgrade to the CR7 suite for £890 per night, which comes with a PlayStation 4 console, virtual reality glasses and cardio workout equipment.

True to the brand, guests can also receive workout tips, personally recommended by Ronaldo through the Pestana CR7 app.

Of course, no 4* hotel would be complete without somewhere to socialise and the onsite bar and bistro, serves an array of Portuguese delicacies, tapas and cocktails. There’s also a foosball table, if you’re feeling competitive.

The hotel is in a prime location for tourist attractions and the shopping district, so once you’ve explored, it’s just a short walk back to a comfortable room with a view of the beautiful city of Lisbon.

Prices start at £180 per night for a double room, visit pestanacr7.com for more information.