Convento do Espinheiro, Historic Hotel & Spa, Évora

Immerse yourself in over 600 years of history at the Convento do Espinheiro, a luxury hotel in a 15th-century convent. A vision of the Virgin Mary appeared in a thorn bush (espinheiro in Portuguese) in 1400, leading to the creation of the convent, which became a pilgrimage site for Portuguese monarchs for centuries. Located a few miles outside the Old Town of Évora, Convento do Espinheiro is ideal for those looking for a peaceful remote stay with convenient access to nearby sites. Drive to Old Town in just 10 minutes, where you'll find attractions like the Cathedral, Roman Temple of Diana, and Chapel of Bones.

The spacious rooms differ based on design and views. Design rooms take a retro 1950s approach, while others opt for an elegant historic style with antique furniture, deep colors, and ornate rugs. If you want to live like the royalty who once visited the convent, book one of the suites, which are housed in the areas where the monarchs stayed. The largest option is the Royal Suite, which was the preferred room of King John II. It can sleep up to four and includes a terrace overlooking Évora. All except for the Deluxe Convento have balconies, and they all include rainfall showers and bathtubs.

Enjoy the hotel's different facilities, like its outdoor pool surrounded by greenery, indoor pool overlooking the landscape, relaxing spa area, and tennis courts. History lovers will find more than enough to explore at this property. You can try different wines in the Cisterna Wine Bar, located in the arcades where the monks once collected rainwater. Consider hanging out in the bar and lounge areas in the 16th-century cloisters. Let the kids play on one of the playgrounds while you have a romantic meal under the arches of Divinus, one of the on-site restaurants.