MS Collection Arouca Mosteiro de Arouca ★★★★

"I was truly looking forward to this visit, especially knowing the restaurant is part of a beautifully restored monastery turned 5-star hotel. The setting is remarkable, full of history and grandeur—but sadly, the dining experience was the exact opposite. The decor feels oddly out of place: dark tables, red chairs, no tablecloths, no elegance—more IKEA than heritage. It completely lacks charm or atmosphere, a missed opportunity to match the soul of the building. The menu left me baffled. Ceviche and carpaccio in the heart of rural Portugal, in a place known for its rich, traditional cuisine? It felt tone-deaf. The food itself was far from memorable. My Bife de Alvarenga was based on good-quality meat, but ruined by a pre-made, tasteless sauce that overwhelmed everything. Service was poor, though I understand the restaurant have just opened. Still, that doesn't excuse the overall lack of hospitality or training we experienced. It’s a heartbreaking contrast—such a majestic setting with so little care or passion in the food and service. I hope they find their footing soon, because right now, it’s just a sad echo of what it could be."

Villa Tavares Guest Houses ★★★

"1. The interior space is very welcoming, clean, organized, and above all, quiet. Modern style and well-equipped technologically. 2. The exterior space is also very pleasant and very well maintained! 3. Overall, the experience was great and we recommend it!"

Hotel Rural da Freita ★★★

"The hotel is very comfortable and careful."

Central Suites Arouca ★★★

"The staff is friendly, room is very clean and the view is amazing "

Feel Discovery Casa da Pedra ★★★★

Hotel Sao Pedro ★★★

"Short but pleasant stay!"

Quinta de Anterronde ★★★

"This was a nice surprise. Like a hidden paradise on the brink of the village. Quite and peaceful. Rooms are 18th century style with a some modern details. There is a pool and very nice surrounding. Breakfast was very good and rich. We were all very pleased with the whole experience."

Hotel Rural Quinta de Novais ★★★

"Very charming hotel, inspiring nature and rural surroundings. The hosts and staff were exceedingly nice and attentive and the decoration is sober, simple and elegant. Lovely breakfast with lots of fresh fruits and nice breads, served in a magnificent room with wide views to the garden and the green valley with chestnut trees and oak trees. Charming living room with stone walls, a fireplace and table games. Warm and comfortable bedroom with a private balcony and plenty of space. The building is very well rebuilt, keeping its seventeenth/ eighteenth century magic but with a modern, fresh twist. Only two suggestions: replace the bedroom lights for warmer ones (white lights are a bit too cold and unwelcoming) and have some more towelracks in the bathroom."