18th century Ancestral Home (5*)
The first Parador to open in Portugal, Casa da Ínsua is an ancestral building dating back to the 18th century, built in typical Baroque style. The Parador's stylish interiors provide a welcoming atmosphere whilst reflecting the building’s history. Rooms are bright and roomy and the Parador has 5 apartments, perfect for those wanting more spacious accommodation. The beautiful surrounding gardens feature an array of colourful plants and interesting topiary features. Guests can relax by one of the Parador’s two outdoor pools (open seasonally). The natural surroundings create a peaceful setting. Make sure to look out for some of the resident swans and wildlife. The Parador’s restaurant offers delicious local cuisine and you can enjoy a drink on the terrace before dinner in the summer.
In addition to the lovely accommodation it provides, the Parador de Casa da Ínsua also has a functioning cheese and jam factory, and a vineyard. Guests can sample and buy the products, all of which are excellent examples of local specialities.
The Parador is situated in a beautiful nature spot close to Penalva de Castelo and the Dão River in the centre of Portugal. The nearby Serra da Estrela national park is one of Portugal’s greenest areas and offers plenty of activities including cycling, hiking and horse-riding. Viseu is located just 25km away from the Parador and is a lovely walled town featuring 16th century buildings and medieval flourishes. Worth visiting are the town’s 16th century Cathedral and the 18th century Misericorida church. Of particular note are the Roman fortifications and the House of Viriato, a legendary Lusitanian shepherd who held off the Roman forces attempting to conquer Hispania.
For seasonal Parador pool opening times please visit our information on pools page.
Breakfast is served from 7.30 to 10.00.
Lunch is served from 12.30 to 15.00.
Dinner is served from 19.30 to 22.30.
Cafe/bar is open from 11.00 until midnight offering bar snacks and lighter dishes.
Arriving by car: The Parador is located in the small town of Penalva do Castelo, 25km from the city of Viseu. From Viseu, take the A25/E80 and exit at junction 22 for Mangualde/Penalva do Castelo. Then take the N329-1and continue straight ahead along the N329 until you reachPenalva do Castelo, then take a left turn onto Rua 1° de Dezembro and continue straight ahead until you reach Casa da Insua. From Spain and the East take the A25/E80 and exit at junction 22 for Mangualde/Penalva do Castelo and take the N329-1, then follow the same instructions as above.
Free exterior parking.