This hotel was part of the earlier state-owned ”Estalagem” (hostel, Inn) and potentially firstly opened in the 1970 still during Salazar or shortly later? At least this place is from times Portugal was trying to pioneer turism business (by state). Yes the location with the views is great - but that's unfortunately all (free views you'll have from the Sao Felix church as well). Many of such historic Estalagems have been closed down in recent years mainly because the new owners (after state has left the tourism business and e.g. Pousadas to Pestana) didn't want to invest and the places showed their age. So the left over Estalagems were available for last 2 centuries around 40-50€/night! Tradionally in Portugal breakfast is included and al of the Estalagems has special views and perks (like a pool). However after the pandemic the management of this place thinks rates around 100-150€ are reasonable for the same old rooms. Yes, some parts of the bathroom and maybe the AC seem to be renewed (not the hairdryer e.g.!!), but the first mistake is done at the reception (behind the desk visible to all guest as welcome). The remaining decor in the rooms is worne (not from 1975 but maybe 1995), the carpets are completely worn, though are minibar, cupboards etc. Building is in poor shape, Pools are historice Breakfast was below average and remember that -since 2023 - the comunal city want a direct contribution from all guests per day 1,5€, which is a joke: most of the streets are still noisy cobblestones - this money does direclty to wrong channels! I'd recommend not even to think any second to stay in this place except you want to invest your valued money in a truely historic experience which will at the end be a disappointment!
Excellent
58 Reviews