Opened in 2009, the Pousada de Estói, just outside of Faro in the Algarve (map), has garnered some pretty good reviews, scoring 8.6 out of 10 on Booking.com’s user ratings, a mark they call “fabulous.” Amenities include air-conditioning, LCD cable TV, mini-bar, free WLAN, free garage parking and buffet breakfast. If you’ve never stayed at a pousada, you can make the historic place, in this case an 18th century palace, part of your vacation, soaking in the luxurious and romantic history of it.
One of my favorite places to stay in rural Portugal, Casa das Penhas Douradas, smack dab in the heart of Serra da Estrela National Park, has added some additional new rooms; there’s now 18, a spa, restaurant, heated pool and bikes. For you active travelers, you need to check this one out. Booking.com users rate it a “Superb” 9.3
