On the top of an arid hill under the intense sun of Portugal’s Alentejo region is the magical little village of Terena. Few people know this place even exists and those that do tend to keep it a secret. Enclosed within the medieval castle walls that once gave purpose to the town, the stone houses and petite parish churches provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway. Most Terena hotels are boutique inns and small family-run pensions with loads of ambiance and charm. It’s almost impossible to get lost here as everything within the compact town is tucked up on the crest of the hill. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the lake and the valley below from most vantage points in Terena, and a handful of local cafes and shops help to keep everything running. Vineyards and orchards fan out across the valley, offering endless options for long walks, bike rides and country drives.

other spellings: Terenahotels, hotelTerena, Terenahotel