Pousada Vila Viçosa - Official UK Agent

The Hotel

The Pousada of D. João, the IV Duke of Braganca, is set in the former Convent of Chagas de Cristo (Christ’s Wounds) in the historical town of Vila Viçosa.

Full of character with its intricate themed rooms, and exuding history and legends, the Pousada has kept the convent cells, the retreats and the oratories built by the nuns intact. The very fertile region surrounding the hotel is famous for its marble extracted in local quarries, and of which there is ample evidence throughout the building.

The rooms surround a secluded cloister garden, in which guests can have a meal in the summer – alternatively one can eat in the grand, vaulted dining room (the former convent refectory) with its Baroque-style furniture. The Pousada’s menu offers a variety of international and typical dishes full of flavour and frequently using locally sourced ingredients.

Local Area

Ideally situated in the heart of Vila Viçosa, the Pousada offers many opportunities to explore this charming little town whose timeless architecture is simply breath-taking. The central location of the hotel however does not impede its atmosphere of peace and calm which will make your stay exceptionally relaxing.

Portugal’s Alentejo region, known for its wild landscapes inviting to all sorts of outdoor activities – such as cycling, hiking, birdwatching and surfing, as well as its wine and cork production.

Only a ten minute’s ride away from the Pousada is the town of Borba, a beautiful place which served an important purpose in the establishment of Portugal’s independence due to its strategic location in relation to the Spanish border. Just as in Vila Viçosa, Borba’s architecture benefits greatly from the locally produced marble which adorns every corner of every street.

The medieval town of Evora, situated approximately 65 kilometres away from Vila Viçosa, also constitutes a worthwhile excursion. The Templo Romano de Evora whose construction dates back to the first century, dominates the city’s historical centre with its impressive Corinthian columns. Since Evora is also renowned for its university and student life, one can find a plethora of restaurants and educational activities to do in a lively and cheerful environment.

Pool

For Pousada pool information please visit our information on pools page.

Restaurant

Dinner is served in the Restaurant Antigo Refeitório (check timings with Pousada)

Restaurant D. Carlos (breakfast room):
Breakfast is served from 08:00 to 10:30 (08:00 to 11:00 weekends & public holidays)

Bar: 12:00 - 23:00

Cuisine

The cuisine at Pousada de Vila Viçosa focuses on traditional Alentejo flavours. The menu features regional soups like tomato with sausage and chickpea with cod, alongside starters such as grilled chouriço, wild asparagus omelette, and rabbit terrine. Main dishes include golden cod, roast lamb, Alentejo pork with tomato jam, and local specialties like “migas” (bread-based side dish). Vegetarian options and rich convent-style desserts such as Manjar das Chagas round out the menu, complemented by a strong selection of Alentejo wines.

How to get there

From Evora Centre:

Head northwest on Praça de Giraldo toward R. Serpa Pinto (62 ft)
Continue onto R. Serpa Pinto (0.3 mi)
Turn right onto Av. de Lisboa/IP2 Continue to follow IP2 Go through 1 roundabout (0.4 mi)
Slight left onto Largo da Porta de Avis/IP2 (0.2 mi)
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Av. Dr. Manuel Trindade Salgueiro (0.3 mi)
At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto E802 Go through 1 roundabout (0.6 mi)
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto IP2 (0.2 mi)
Turn right toward IP2 (62 ft)
Turn right onto IP2 (5.0 mi)
Slight left to stay on IP2 (signs for Estremoz/Espanha/Lisboa/Montemor) Partial toll road (0.3 mi)
Keep right at the fork, follow signs for Estremoz/Espanha and merge onto A6 Toll road (25.9 mi)
Take exit 8 toward Borba/Alandroal Toll road (0.3 mi)
Slight right onto N255 (signs for Alandroal/Vila Viçosa/Borba) Partial toll road (4.4 mi)
Turn left toward Campo da Restauração (0.5 mi)
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Campo da Restauração (0.2 mi)
Turn right onto Estr. da Mata (0.2 mi)
Take the 2nd left toward Av. 25 de Abril (0.2 mi)
Take the 2nd left onto Av. 25 de Abril
Destination will be on the right (249 ft)