Description of hotel: Pousada Castelo de Alvito in Alvito

This stunning pousada is set in a former fortress and palace dating back to the 15th century. The property has been classified as a national monument since 1910 and was carefully restored and reopened as a hotel in 1993. The terrace gardens are complete with peacocks that stroll amidst the lush, green foliage as well as a pool with views towards the castle cloisters. Each comfortable guest room features a lavish, antique look with canopy beds, tapestries and Moorish and Gothic accents. Rooms also feature modern comforts such as air-conditioning, minibar and cable television, all seamlessly blended with the traditional décor of the room. The stunning in-house restaurant serves authentic regional dishes such as Alentejo sausage in what was once the castle's dungeon, and the hotel also offers medieval-themed dinners and bicycle and bird watching tours, all for a delightful escape to the Alentejo countryside.