Fodor's Expert Review Pousada Castelo Palmela

Originally a medieval fortress and later a monastery, this pousada makes full use of the colonnaded walkways of the old cloisters as an atmospheric setting for breakfasts with views of the nearby hills. There's little trace of monastic asceticism in the monks' former refectory, now a dependable restaurant that serves traditional Portuguese food and fine wines. It's part of the Pestana Pousadas de Portugal portfolio of tastefully refurbished historic buildings.