Description
Situated in a peaceful valley near Arraiolos – a pretty hilltop town 120 kilometres east of Lisbon, famous worldwide for its handmade carpets – the Pousada de Arraiolos is housed in a spacious, beautifully converted 16th-century convent where ancient and modern blend beautifully. Bedrooms are decorated in a contemporary style and some overlook the lawns and the large swimming pool. Surrounded by green hills, olive trees and grazing sheep, the Pousada provides its guests with an overall feeling of calm and infinite space. Guests can stroll at leisure in the large cloisters, or relax on the magnificent patio between the original Renaissance building and the stylish new wing.
Construction started on the convent in 1527, the day before Assumption Day, after which the convent was subsequently named. In a state of ruin following the closure of the convents and monasteries in 1834, the Pousada was later acquired by the state and, after an extensive and imaginative reconstruction and conversion work, joined the Pousadas’ network in 1995.Situated in a peaceful valley near Arraiolos – a pretty hilltop town 120 kilometres east of Lisbon, famous worldwide for its handmade carpets – the Pousada de Arraiolos is housed in a spacious, beautifully converted 16th-century convent where ancient and modern blend beautifully. Bedrooms are decorated in a contemporary style and some overlook the lawns and the large swimming pool. Surrounded by green hills, olive trees and grazing sheep, the Pousada provides its guests with an overall feeling of calm and infinite space. Guests can stroll at leisure in the large cloisters, or relax on the magnificent patio between the original Renaissance building and the stylish new wing.
One of the most impressive features of this Pousada is the chapel at its heart, decorated from wall to wall with hand-painted blue tiles. It is still in use today for weddings and small services. The starkness of the fresh white walls, the natural feel of stone throughout and the touches of colour and contemporary design make it one of the most attractive and tranquil Pousadas in the group, set in a wonderful countryside location.
The Pousada de Arraiolos is situated towards the north of the Alentejo region, famous for its wild, picturesque landscapes and mouth-watering culinary traditions. The area in which the Pousada stands proves to be particularly interesting for architecture-enthusiasts as an array of medieval towns and villages are within easy reach.
The city of Evoramonte, for instance, presents travellers with one of the country’s most stunning castles, listed as a Portuguese national monument. By driving only a short distance – approximately 40 kilometres – the Pousada’s guests can enjoy the magnificent views from the castle, as well as the lovely architectural blend of Gothic and Manueline styles.
Only a 35 minutes’ drive away from the Pousada de Arraiolos is Estremoz, a city full of culture and history which owes its international reputation to the fine marble produced around it. One can wander through the streets and witness examples of this local product displayed everywhere in the city. The main square, Rossio Marques de Pombal (also known as ‘the Rossio’) is also a must-see. We would advise going during the weekend to enjoy the large market held on the square where travellers can appreciate samples of traditional Portuguese handicraft and various gourmet delights.
Close to the Pousada de Arraiolos, the town of Montemor-o-Novo is filled with historical buildings undoubtedly worth visiting, among which are several convents, churches and chapels. The Convent of Saint Joao de Deus, for instance, now houses the Municipal Library and Gallery as well as the Historical Archives. This architectural wonder will therefore make an outing in Montemor-o-Novo both instructive and culturally enriching.
