There’s a lot to love about this sparkling new eco hotel in the glorious Alentejo countryside. Nature is at the heart of everything here - from the fresh, seasonal ingredients used in the highly acclaimed kitchen, to the trendy, locally sourced homewares in the rooms. What’s more, a Unesco certification made this the first Starlight Tourism Destination in the world, meaning magnificent Milky Way-filled skies follow awesome sunsets. But the real star of the show? The Alqueva Lake that glistens as far as the eye can see. Take in the view from the infinity pool, or from your very own private terrace (every room has one). This is heavenly stuff.
All rooms are generously sized, beautifully designed suites with bright, uplifting interiors and those far-reaching views of lake or countryside. Some even have their own tiny plunge pools. The vibe is chic and serene, with muted tones and natural wood and wicker touches. There are medieval walled towns and villages nearby – Evora and Monsaraz are highlights – as well as horse-riding, wine-tasting, biking and balloon rides on the estate itself. Back at the ranch, play your favourite summer soundtrack on the bluetooth speaker, settle in under the stars, and be at one with nature. Bliss.
Highs
- Breathtaking sunsets seen best with a sundowner from a special picnic spot on the estate
- Staff are super-friendly, and can help with everything from swimming spots to English speaking guides
- Every room is fabulous and comes with a private terrace
- The tiny fortified hilltop village of Monsaraz (6km away) is one of Portugal’s loveliest gems
- Marvel at the Milky Way through your complimentary binoculars from the stargazing platform
Lows
- No twin rooms here (just doubles); and no bathtubs
- You’ll need a car; the nearest village is 6km away
- Pathways can be a little uneven so watch your step
- The infinity pool is designed for gentle dipping rather than vigorous swims and is unheated
Best time to go
We love spring (April/May) - the wildflowers are in bloom, the countryside is gloriously green and the temperature is warm and pleasant. Summer months are hot – often reaching 35-40C – but you can always cool down in the pool or lake. Come autumn, the sun still shines and temperatures are kinder. Winters are cool – typically 12-18C – and can be wet, but the hotel is cosy and warm.
Our top tips
Although you're 100 miles from the coast, this is one of Portugal's best spots for swimming and watersports, thanks to the "Great Lake" of Alqueva on your doorstep. There's a semi-developed sandy beach 10 mins' drive from the hotel and, with over 1,000km of shoreline, no end of wild swimming spots too. SUP, sailing, wakeboarding, canoe and kayak trips are all possible.
- Boutique Hotel
- 15 rooms
- Restaurant & bar
- Children accepted but not ideal
- Open all year
- Outdoor Pool
- Spa Treatments
- Beach nearby
- Pet Friendly
- Disabled Access
- Car essential
- Parking
- Restaurants Nearby
- WiFi
- Air Conditioning
- Guest Lounge
- Terrace
- Garden
- Gym
- Bicycles Available
- Electric car charger
Rooms
There are 11 Suites and 4 Premium Suites, each cool and minimalistic in design, with added pops of colour and natural textures. Think on-trend rattan wall hangings and soothing wood features, all sourced from local suppliers. Every option comes with a private terrace or balcony plus a view of the lake or surrounding countryside.
Premium Suites have their own dinky little plunge pools too, perfectly placed for stargazing with a glass of something cold – note that these are heated from October until late spring. Other little extras we love include bluetooth JBL speakers, fluffy bathrobes, yoga mats and divine toiletries.
The hotel plans to offer a few 1- and 2-bedroom apartments in future (they're currently being let on a long-term basis).
Features include:
- Air conditioning
- Minibar/fridge
Eating
By all accounts, eating here is an utter treat. Devour fresh, seasonal and locally-sourced food, with breathtaking panoramic views of Alqueva Lake as your backdrop.
The SkyScape Restaurant serves a continental breakfast and light lunches, from a seasonally changing menu. Think sharing platters of local meat and cheeses, shrimp salad, gazpacho or a trio of mini-burgers. In the evenings expect a delicious four-course dinner from a daily fixed chef's menu, which always has a meat or fish main course option such as roast lamb or traditional cod stew.
Beyond the hotel, the nearest restaurant is a 5-minute drive away in the teeny yet charming hilltop village of Monsaraz. Choose from a handful of delightful eateries here - Sabores and Xarez are well reviewed. Or ask the lovely hotel staff for other recommendations in Reguengos or Mourao, both about 10 mins' drive.
Features include:
- Minibar/fridge
- Restaurant
Activities
- Enjoy the great outdoors on the estate: take in the scenery on foot or horseback, explore the lake by boat, cycle the rolling country lanes (bikes can be borrowed from the hotel); walk in the eucalyptus forests of the Serra de Ossa; go birdwatching with the hotel's binoculars
- Don't miss the charming, cobbled hilltop village of Monsaraz (5 mins) with its impressive 13th-century castle, artisan shops and epic views over the Alqueva Lake
- The sandy freshwater beach of Praia Fluvial de Monsaraz (10 mins) is perfect for a cooling swim or kayak trip on Alqueva Lake; there's a handy onsite restaurant too
- Enjoy a private wine tasting experience with a sommelier focused on local wines
- Head out to Évora (40 mins), an impressively preserved 14th-century medieval walled town. Discover curious Roman baths, a grand Cathedral and the 16th-century Giraldo Town Square
- It's a similar distancer to lovely Vila Viçosa, with its grandiose marble palace, castle and orange-tree-shaded plaza
- Hotel staff can also arrange pottery workshops, balloon rides, olive oil tastings, and English-speaking guides
Activities on site or nearby include:
- Cooking classes
- Cycling
- Hiking
- Horse riding
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Windsurfing
- Wine tasting
Kids
Children of all ages are welcome here, although the hotel has been designed primarily with adults in mind, and the ambiance is a tranquil one.
Best for:
Babies (0-1 years), Children (4-12 years)
Family friendly accommodation:
It is possible to add one cot or extra bed (available on request, at extra cost) in the Premium Suites. But be warned, they are in short supply so get in there early.
Cots Available, Extra Beds Available
Baby equipment:
Remember baby and child equipment may be limited or need pre-booking
Families Should Know:
Loud splashing in the pool is discouraged.
For more family-friendly places, see our Kids Collection
Location
Montimerso SkyScape Country House is set on the edge of Alqueva Lake in the northeast corner of the Alentejo region, close to the Spanish border. The village of Monsaraz is 6km away; the town of Reguengos de Monsaraz is 10km.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Lisbon (180km / 2 hours). Faro (230km / 2.5 hours) is also an option.
From the Airport:
You will want to hire a car to explore the area and have options for eating out. There's free parking at the hotel.
Detailed directions will be sent when you book through i-escape.
Airports:
- Lisbon 179.0 km LIS
Other:
- Beach 10.0 km
- Shops 9.0 km
- Restaurant 6.0 km