Pousada de Santa Maria Hotel - Portalegre

The Pousada de Santa Maria Hotel is housed in a historic Cistercian Monastery built in the 12th century, and it boasts an idyllic location surrounded by green fields and famous vineyards where vinho verde wines are made. The ancient and historic town of Braga is accessible by car; guests can also go on day trips to Peneda Geres National Park or explore the vast region of Minho. Nearby Braga is home to the 11th century Se Cathedral and a museum that contains religious artefacts from that era. Further afield lies the Capela de Sao Frutuoso, one of Portugal’s oldest churches dating from the 7th century.

Number of Rooms: 29

At the bright restaurant one can enjoy traditional cuisine, such as bread, egg and coriander soup, roast pork loin with orange sauce, roast lamb with red pepper and for dessert, rich egg and sugar pudding.

It is not spacious and although Spartan in decoration it is quite cosy and welcoming.

At almost 1000 metres altitude and surrounded by 13th century castle walls, this Pousada was built from a group of small village houses maintaining their medieval characteristics. Visitors can enjoy an outstanding view from some of the rooms and sitting rooms over the alentejo plain.