High above sea level and surrounded by the lush, unspoiled Serra da Estrela National Park is the Casa das Penhas Douradas, a delightful boutique hotel. This is a destination for nature lovers and whether in full spring bloom, bathed in summer sun or covered with rich autumnal colours is a fabulous, little known destination to discover. Mountains, lakes, river valleys, historic villages and castles all await the visitor.
Owner-managed by Isabel and João, the 18 room Casa das Penhas Douradas has been inspired by the region, local architecture and constructed using natural materials. Large windows draw the environment inside and the fresh interior design ensures that your focus remains on your surroundings, whilst exuding a warm, cosy ambience. Attention to detail is apparent throughout and the service is welcoming and attentive.
Accommodation
- 18 rooms including cork rooms, balcony rooms, mansard rooms, mansard superior rooms and one suite
- All rooms have a bathroom (shower), hairdryer, cable TV with DVD player (a selection of films available at reception), ipod docking station, telephone, complimentary WiFi internet connection and panoramic windows looking towards the mountains
- Cork rooms is decorated with birch wood and has a glass partition between the bedroom and bathroom
- Balcony rooms have a shared terrace and a glass partition between the bedroom and bathroom
- Mansard superior rooms have a designated seating areaThe suite has airconditioning, a bathroom with bath, designated sitting area, minibar and tea and coffee making facilities
- The cork rooms, mansard superior rooms and the suite will accommodate an extra bed for an adult or child (2- 12yrs)
- Some cork and balcony rooms interconnect
- Safe deposit box available at reception.
Amenities/Leisure
- Buffet breakfast
- Restaurant serving gourmet cuisine and specialising in locally sourced products
- Lounge
- Library
- Complimentary buffet with tea, coffee, various waters, seasonal fruit, fruit juices, yoghurts, cake, biscuits and jams available daily from 11:00-19:00.
- During the afternoon, selected wine and canapés are also served for tastings
- SPA with sauna, indoor swimming pool (50m2) with panoramic views, sauna, Vichy shower, treatment rooms and a relaxation area
- Mountain bikes and kayaks available for hire (free of charge). Kayaks can be used on a lagoon 1km from the hotel
- Free guided tour to the Burel Factory, a working 19th century wool factory owned by the hotel
- Free parking
- Picnics and special gourmet picnics can be arranged (payable locally)
- 200km of walking trails accessible from or near the hotel. The walking trails are of different lengths and levels of difficulty
- Mountain bike trails available from and near the hotel
- Historic villages and castles in the region recommended to visit include: Belmonte (43km), Piodão (54km), Sortelha (62km) and Monsanto (121km).
Board Basis: Bed & Breakfast
Cork Room
Cork room with a bathroom (shower and hairdryer), telephone, cable TV with DVD player, ipod docking station, complimentary WiFi and panoramic windows with mountain view.
Varandah Room
Verandah room with a bathroom (shower and hairdryer), telephone, cable TV with DVD player, ipod docking station, complimentary WiFi and balcony with panoramic mountain view.
Mansarda Room
Mansarda room with a bathroom (shower and hairdryer), telephone, cable TV with DVD player, ipod docking station, complimentary WiFi with mountain view.
Superior Mansarda Room
Superior Mansarda room with a bathroom (shower and hairdryer), telephone, cable TV with DVD player, ipod docking station, complimentary WiFi and panoramic windows with mountain view.
Suite
Suite with a bathroom (bath/shower and hairdryer), telephone, cable TV with DVD player, ipod docking station, complimentary WiFi and panoramic windows with mountain view.