HSDE1, Manteigas, Portugal
A breath of fresh, mountain air, this delightful small hotel-spa at the heart of the Serra da Estrela is full of surprises and is everything a mountain lodge should be, and more. At 1500m above sea level, this architect-designed hotel is truly integrated in its surroundings bringing the spectacular sierra views right into every room - but it's the customer service and attention to every detail that really make this a unique and special experience. Rarely have we come across such a friendly and enthusiastic team. The owners have taken a crumbling health retreat and, using natural materials such as cork, birch wood and wool, converted it into a boutique hotel with a decidedly Scandinavian feel. They have also saved the local wool mill from closure and many of the furnishings and decorations employ the stylish textiles the mill now produces. There's a spa with saunas and massage facilities and heated pool with views straight to the mountain as well as several cosy lounges and a dining room, each with stylish decor and a welcoming fireplace, and again those stunning views! Direct from the hotel you can enjoy lovely walks through the boulder-strewn sierra to the lake at Rossin, for which full instructions and a picnic can be provided of course, even a kayak to take out on the lake. Or you can visit the owners' wool factory in nearby Manteigas - definitely not to be missed. At the very centre of the Serra da Estrela it's a practical base to visit the mountains of course, which reach their highest point at Torre (2000m), as well as the historic towns and villages below; Belmonte, Sabugal, ... if you ever do venture out!
1 suite 2 'mansard' (dormer) rooms 1 superior room 7 cork rooms in the newest part of the building 7 balcony rooms, each with their own small terrace
Stunning mountain location at the heart of the Serra da Estrela
Architect designed
Indoor pool and spa
Picture windows make the most of the views
Free, on-site parking
The hotel’s excellent restaurant uses local and homemade products wherever possible and serves daily buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Our team of experts have over 35 years travel expertise in Spain & Portugal.
You’ll receive friendly, personal service from start to finish of the booking process.
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With 40+ years’ experience designing holidays in Spain & Portugal, our friendly, expert team offers personal service from booking to your return. While away, you’ll have ground support from local agents.
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