Meanwhile, the family legacy and entrepreneurial spirit were taking shape through Carlos Matos, the son of Marcelino Cardoso de Matos and Maria Julieta. With an innovative vision for hospitality, catering, and nightlife entertainment, Carlos Matos took his first steps in the business world through the iconic Bar Bondjau, known for its irreverent decor and avant-garde character. The Pecados Nightclub, also in São Pedro do Sul, became memorable for its enigmatic parties.

However, fate had new directions in store, and in 2006, with the passing of Marcelino Cardoso de Matos, Carlos Matos and his wife, Cristina Raposo, took over the management of the then Grande Hotel Lisboa. With strategic vision and unwavering audacity, they led two profound renovations, culminating in the construction of the SPA and the hotel’s rebirth as Grande Hotel Thermas Nature & SPA. The revitalization encompassed all sectors of the hotel, reflecting the dynamic and visionary spirit of a couple who, despite challenges, never stopped believing and daring.

As a tribute to the generations who built this legacy, seven Master Suites were created on the hotel’s top floor, each filled with meaning:

• 1919 – The milestone marking the beginning of a legendary story.

• MCM – A tribute to Marcelino Cardoso de Matos, the pioneer of this journey.

• JR – Julieta Raposo, a woman of unwavering character, is still present at the hotel today, closely following all developments.

• CM – Carlos Matos, the visionary and determined soul leading the hotel.

• CR – Cristina Raposo, Carlos Matos’s wife, attentive to every minute detail. Her touch is evident in every corner of the hotel.

• JJ – João Marcelino and Julieta, the children of Carlos and Cristina. João, who now follows in his father’s footsteps, is part of the hotel’s management. Many see him as the personification of his grandfather, Marcelino Cardoso de Matos – with a captivating personality and warm demeanor, he may have inherited not only a passion for hospitality but also a natural talent for welcoming others. Julieta, with a more reserved temperament, is a woman of great delicacy. She is devoted to her vocation in medicine, practicing in Porto, while maintaining a deep connection with her roots and closely following the hotel’s evolution.

• PPF – Past, Present, and Future. Because without a past, there is no history; without history, there is no present; and without the present, we cannot build the future.

Our story continues to be written, and this page will always remain open. At Grande Hotel Thermas, more than a hotel, we are a family, and our story will forever be in the making.

To be continued…