Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 8.30am-12.30pm & 2.30-6.30pm) Within the castle walls is this brilliantly tiled 15th-century
church. It is also known as Solar da Padroeira , Home of the Patron Saint - the Virgin's
image is found within. It was here that in 1646, King João IV offered the kingdom to
Nossa Senhora Da Conceição who became then the patron saint of Portugal. From that
time on, the kings of Portugal never wore the crown again, as it was now the Virgin's.
Celebrations take place on 8 December.
Sleeping
Hospedaria Dom Carlos
( fax 268 980 318; Praça da República 25; s/d/tr not incl breakfast €30/40/50; ) In an excellent location
on the main square, the Dom Carlos offers tidy and comfortable rooms with wood finish-
ing and a small, fancy lobby.
GUESTHOUSE
Casa do Colégio Velho
( 268 889 430; www.casadocolegiovelho.com ; Rua Dr Couto Jardim 34; d €75-95, ste from €110; )
You'll feel like Catarina Bragança herself in one of the seven plush rooms in this former
family residence (home to the Jesuits in the 17th century). Decoration embraces a
mélange of styles, including modern art deco and even rare rose marble in one of the bath-
rooms. The helpful English-speaking owner is handy with recommendations. The casa
overlooks a lovely, neat garden, with lilies and a pool.
GUESTHOUSE €€
Herdade da Ribeira de Borba
( 268 980 709; www.hrb.com.pt ; Ciladas; r €90-110; ) Five kilometres out of Vila Viçosa and
on a working farm (think rural tranquillity, walks, birdwatching), this lovely option offers
everything from contemporary apartments with kitchens in former workers' cottages, to
plainer but pleasant rooms in the main building. Perfect for longer-term stays.
RURAL INN €€
Pousada de Dom João IV
( 268 980 742; www.pousadas.pt ; d €220; ) Next to the Ducal Palace, this former royal
convent was once the 'House of the Ladies of the Court'. Today, this regal spot offers spa-
cious rooms - one with original frescos - terraces and classic furnishings. Rooms open
onto a striking inner courtyard.
LUXURY HOTEL €€€
Eating
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