Fodor's Expert Review Pousada do Castelo de Alvito

The essential architectural elements of a castle—including crenellated battlements and massive round towers—have been retained in this pousada located within the walls of the fortress at the edge of the village. Vaulted ceilings, red-clay-tile floors, oil paintings with gold-leaf picture frames, and red-and-gold-patterned upholstery add to the medieval atmosphere. Rooms fit for a king have beautiful arched Manueline windows and stone window benches. More than any other pousada, this really feels like you're staying in a 15th-century castle, with window seats set in thick walls that look out onto rolling plains. The cozy restaurant, open to the public, serves a variety of Alentejo specialties, including an excellent bacalhau caldeirada (codfish stew).