Regal slumbers in Alentejo castles

Discovering Portugal’s interior is always a surprising endeavour, with history and heritage around every corner, at the end of every leafy road, and even in hotel rooms. Guests at the Pousadas can sleep in a castle, relax in convent cloisters, and dine like a prince in a stately hall. Far from the beach, but with a swimming pool always nearby, hotels in the Alentejo offer every traveller a refreshing experience.

In a place like Évora, historical heritage and the aesthetically pleasing abound. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, this walled city offers beauty wherever you look, fascinating both children and grown-ups: sleeping in Marvão or Estremoz is like going back to the Medieval Era, while imagining yourself spending time with kings and princesses. And there’s more.

Another great advantage of staying in the Alentejo is the natural heritage it boasts. If you fancy a walk in the Serra de São Mamede Nature Park or stroll among the rice paddies of Alcácer do Sal, there’s a Pousadas de Portugal just a few minutes away. The landscapes are truly unique, the fresh air restorative, and the visit gives you an appetite.

Talking of appetite, the local cuisine is based on subsistence cooking and the Mediterranean diet. Olive oil and bread are key ingredients, as exemplified by the iconic dish açorda (a kind of bread soup). Stews, shark broths and the best wild asparagus with eggs are served at local tables, from Crato to Évora, from Vila Viçosa to Beja. These gastronomic traditions are as strong as the region’s handicrafts, which are increasingly valued by both Portuguese and foreign people. Good examples of this are the Arraiolos rugs, famous throughout the country, and the colourful and allegorical figures of Estremoz.

Whether it’s a weekend break or a long summer holiday, time spent in the Alentejo always leaves visitors with unforgettable memories of beauty, history, heritage and great food.