Pousada Convento, Tavira (Algarve)

• Enjoy a stay in a historic convent-turned pousada for authentic centuries-old character, not to mention you'll have access to the Moorish ruins discovered on-site.
• Restaurants and Tavira landmarks, including the 16th-century Igreja da Misericórdia, are accessible on foot and within 5 minutes.
• There's a decent-sized pool (and one for the kids) with sun loungers and views of olive trees for sunning, or for cool contemplation, there's the furnished and shaded original cloisters.
• Dine on regional food at the on-site restaurant, Mouraria, for lunch and dinner (set times), and try options like traditional cataplana.
• Upgrade to the Special Suite for more space, though all guestrooms are fairly comparable and have either balconies, gardens, or terraces.  
• Staff receive top marks for their attentiveness from past kimkim travelers.

• Rooms and common spaces (like the restaurant) feel a little plain in aesthetic, with cream walls and traditional furniture (though Mouraria's wood-panelled ceiling is pretty).

Authenticity

Nossa Senhora da Graça is a 16th-century convent skillfully repurposed into Pousada Convento, keeping much of its original character. Rooms have been converted from the convent's old cells, the cloisters are a shady spot to sit and relax, and you can even check out the archaeological site of the Moorish Almóada neighborhood ruins discovered when the hotel underwent renovations. Sip on Portuguese wines at the bar and dine on regional fare at Mouraria, and try the muxama (dry-cured tuna loins). 

Location

Set in Tavira's historic center on Castle Hill, you're a few minutes' walk from the ruins of the popular medieval fortress (Castelo de Tavira), the Roman Bridge over Gilão River, and one of the Algarve's most important Renaissance monuments, the 16th-century Igreja da Misericórdia. Restaurants are close by, the white sand beaches of Ilha de Tavira are a 15-minute car ride away, and considering the Ria Formosa National Park's reach, you can set out on foot (or by boat) to access the extensive bird-watching trails.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The pousada features simple, if not a little outmoded, decor and furnishings across its 36 rooms, some of which have been adapted from the convent's original cells. All have private gardens, terraces, or small balconies with views over the courtyard or pool and gardens. You'll find wooden floors, cream walls, and warm tones of red and gold in upholstered furniture, while marble en-suites—most with tubs—include the Portuguese Castelbel brand of products.

Amenities

Perks include the outdoor pool flanked by sunloungers and olive trees and garden, a kiddie pool, and a small spa for massages. Order a drink at the bar, play a chess game, or take in the views of the Almóada ruins discovered during the convent's restoration. Continental buffet breakfast (pastries, carob bread, made-to-order eggs, fruit, cheese, and ham) and lunch and dinner (regional cuisine) are served at the Mouraria restaurant (formerly the convent's cafeteria). Morning yoga classes and meditation are also on offer. Laundry service is available (for a fee), and electric vehicle charging stations are on-site. 

Family-Friendliness

The historic property caters to families with the Standard and Special suites accommodating up to four guests (three adults and a child). Cribs are also available upon request, and there's an outdoor square pool (beside the larger one) designated for kids, and puzzles and board games are available for borrowing, too.