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We've compiled the best of the best in Évora and the Alentejo - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
This manor house sits across the river and offers stunning views of the city at sunset; ask for a back room with views over an orange grove. Common areas have a cozy fireplace where you can read a book or socialize with other guests. The friendly owners are avid bird-watchers and can help you arrange excursions.
Its labyrinth of passageways, whitewashed walls, vaulted ceilings, and interior open courtyard reflect the Arabic influence in this 200-year-old manor house near the Igreja do Salvador. The breakfasts are special with fresh orange juice, honey from the region, and queijadinhas (cheese tarts). The manor is in the center of town and within walking distance of restaurants. Owner Miguel Bentes has several apartments on an adjacent street, which are a good choice for large families or groups who want more space and access to a kitchen.
This small and surprisingly sophisticated guesthouse—a true romantic hideaway—occupies a whitewashed row house in the center of the walled town. The exquisite rooms are filled with antiques and decorated each according to a different Portuguese explorer's destination, including Macau, Goa, Mombasa, Dili, and Asilah. The fantastic valley views and the sunsets are worth the price of a room.
Founded in 1889, this little inn along Beja's pedestrian shopping strip retains its old stone doorway covered in vines and vibrant pink flowers. The entryway and lobby—along with some rooms—are lined with gorgeous hand-painted tile murals of country life around Beja. A common room upstairs has a long brick fireplace and wood beams, the perfect spot to sip a complimentary glass of port in the evening. Rooms are flowery and spacious, and some have lovely wall murals. The abundant breakfast of homemade cakes, fruit salad, toast, and eggs is served in a bright breakfast room on the second floor.
This historic manor house is old-world style at its best, exquisitely adorned with local tapestries and chock-full of antiques. The house has been in António Manuel Manta's family for more than 200 years, and it feels like you're a guest in the family home. You'll be warmed by their hospitality, and by the complimentary glass of port they normally share with guests on arrival. Most of the rooms have fireplaces and high ceilings, and one has an annex with extra beds for kids. Breakfast is a luxurious spread of local cakes, teas, and breads, served on silver and crystal.
Named for its friendly owner, Maria Luisa, this historic guesthouse, decorated with antiques and local textiles, offers a great location on the edge of Castelo de Vide. The breakfast is a feast of homemade cakes, fresh fruit, and local cured meats, all served on the terrace overlooking Maria Luisa's flower garden. Don't be surprised if she greets you with tea and homemade bread and jam after your long day of sightseeing. Maria can lend you maps of the area.
This 17th-century home has stone arches and thick walls with original murals depicting scenes from the Alentejo. Drinks are served on a panoramic terrace overlooking the valley, the ideal place to relax after a day of sightseeing. In winter, you can retreat to the crackling fireplace in the cozy lounge. The adjacent restaurant, Varanda do Alentejo, is run by the same family and serves excellent Alentejan cuisine.
A mile from the historic quarter, this hotel is housed in an 18th-century manor house with sprawling gardens, a heated outdoor swimming pool, and plenty of period charm. Bicycles are free for guests who want to cycle up the road to the walled old city. The main building has colonnaded Arabic-style arches out front, huge hearths and tiled floors inside, and is chock-full of local antiques. You can rent a room or a suite in the main building, or an entire cottage out back. It has one of the biggest and best breakfast spreads in town, with homemade bread and jam.
Some guest rooms in this former mill have balconies overlooking the Guadiana River, while others face the town. The friendly management can help arrange canoeing, jeep excursions, or fishing trips and can rent bikes or kayaks.
