The Pousada at Estremoz is one of the most luxurious in the group.

It is a former royal residence and has a privileged position on a hilltop overlooking the little town of Estremoz. The room in which Saint Queen Isabel died in 1336 is now a small chapel in her memory.

The area around the town is rich in marble which in many instances has been utilized to replace traditional building materials, giving even the smaller houses a sense of opulence.

Due to its strategic hilltop position overlooking the Alentejo plains, Estremoz was one of the most important fortifications in the country and the influence of other cultures is reflected in the battlements which have a Moorish feel.

Situated in the lower town is the large market square, the bustling Saturday market sells everything from olives and cheese to the locally produced red earthenware pottery.

While in the area, visit the little white marble town of Borba and sample the locally produced wine which is considered to be one of the best in the country or, spend a leisurely few hours browsing through the numerous antique shops.

Approximately 19 kilometres from Estremoz is the town of Vila Vicosa, which houses the last royal residence of the House of Braganca.

The Paco Ducal is open to the public and houses fine examples of porcelain, azulejos and tapestries. The royal chambers give an insight into the lifestyle of the family until the monarchy was deposed in 1910.

To the east of the Palace square is the Augustinian Convent containing the tombs of the Bragancan Dukes. The tombs of their wives are in the Convento das Chagas on the south side of the square.

Just to the north of the town is 5,000 acre royal hunting ground.

Pousada de Estremoz has 30 rooms, 2 deluxe and 1 suite all with private bathroom, hair dryer, locker, bathing gowns, air conditioning, Cable television, telephone and minibar.

The bedrooms have all been individually designed and many have four poster beds and locally made rugs on the floor.

The public rooms are connected by marble corridors and grand staircases and contain the finest antiques and period furniture.

Facilities at this beautiful Pousada include air conditioning, lift, restaurant, bar, terrace, swimming pool and parking.

There are also conference facilities.

Dining in Portugal is usually very good and the restaurants of the Pousada group hotels are no exception. They offer a variety of dishes including a selection of local and regional specialities.

From the private palace gardens and swimming pool, surrounded by battlements, you have the most spectacular views of the Alentejo plains which combine with the atmosphere of this historic royal residence to make an unforgettable visit.

At certain periods the Pousada can arrange "18th Century" evening by request.

Activities in the area include hunting, country walks, cycling and theme tours.

The international airport at Lisbon (Lisboa) is approximately 169 kilometers from this Pousada of Portugal.