Quinta da Palmeira Country House & Spa, Central Portugal

To the east of Coimbra, and to the south of Viseu, in central Portugal, there is a charming hillside hotel set among the lush backdrop of Serra do Açor. Quinta da Palmeira Country House & Spa is a late 19th century former residence, lovingly-renovated, to provide guests with modern amenities while maintaining the engaging character of Portuguese tradition. It is an ideal retreat for weekend getaways or much-needed long stays.

Much of the inherent appeal of Quinta da Palmeira, no doubt, is due to the compelling story of owner Jack Brouns. Not too long ago, Holland-native Brouns was diagnosed with a rare muscular disease. The illness kept him bed bound for many years. With tremendous fortitude, he overcame his affliction with a new outlook on life and determination to pursue his dream of opening a small hotel.

Having travelled many times to Portugal in the past, Brouns began to search the country to find the right location to open a guest house. Central Portugal with its variety of landscapes, “schist” villages and relaxed lifestyle, was most enticing. Quinta da Palmeira, in Cerdeira, seemed the perfect fit.

Each of the accommodations at Quinta da Palmeira is individually designed with its own style and character. Therefore, each stay at the hotel provides a slightly different experience. There are four junior suites, two superior rooms, two double standard rooms and a single room for those travelling alone.

All rooms have modern amenities including orthopedic beds, central heating, telephone, free Internet, and flat screen TV.  The suites all have stunning mountain views.

The dining room at Quinta da Palmeira serves international gourmet cuisine, with products sourced at the local markets, or grown in the property’s herb and vegetable gardens. The menu is different each night, but the price remains the same (a very reasonable €28.50).  Compliment the meal with a selection of regional and national wines.

The grounds of the hotel also have their own special charm. These broad spaces are ideal for lounging relaxing and socializing. A tree-shaded patio with comfy seating features views of the Portugal countryside. The swimming pool terrace provides sun worshipers with lounges for soaking in the sun, a refreshing dip in the pool, and a stress reducing soak in the Jacuzzi. In the garden, guests enjoy beverages and snacks, read a book, or just appreciate the peacefulness of the natural landscape.

The Quinta da Palmeira Spa is a new addition to the country house, complete with Jacuzzi, sauna, hammam and a fireplace.

For those interested in exploring the local area, there are many opportunities to learn more about Portugal through exercise, history and culture. Hiking to the Fraga da Pena waterfall or across the Mata da Magraça landscape is exhilarating, as is mountain biking, canoeing and climbing in Serra do Açor. Visit the hillside town of Piódão, which is one of the most beautiful historic schist villages in the country. Not too far away is the religious site and sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima. The Roman city of Conimbriga and the UNESCO World Heritage honored Monastery of Alcobaça are also worth seeing.