Fodor's Expert Review Quinta das Lágrimas

Rua António Augusto Gonçalves, Coimbra, Coimbra, 3040-901, Portugal Fodor's Choice

The gardens of this elegant castle are part of Portuguese history: it was here where Pedro, son of King Afonso IV, and Inês de Castro, lady in waiting to the royal court, met secretly and fell deeply in love. It was a tragic tale, and they say the garden's ancient fountain runs with her tears. The palace is now a luxurious hotel with a plush velvet reception area, a library and other numerous opulent common rooms, and even a small chapel. There's a Turkish bath and sauna, large outdoor and indoor swimming pools, and---rarest of amenities for a city hotel---a golf course. Arcadas, one of the city's best restaurants, sits in the gardens.

PROS

  • fairy-tale setting in the truest sense
  • scrumptuous breakfast buffet
  • restaurant, pools, golf course, and Turkish bath and sauna on site

CONS

  • a bit far from city center attractions
  • some rooms a bit small and boxy
  • visitors to gardens walk directly past some rooms

QUICK FACTS

Hotel
Family
$$

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 239 802 380

HOTEL DETAILS

57 rooms
Rate Includes: Free Breakfast

What’s Nearby