This historical Pousada is located approximately an hour’s drive from Porto and was our first stop on a two-week visit staying mainly in pousadas. We had a two-night stay here, nestled in the mountain range of the Geres. We chose this location because of its proximity to Braga. Amares is a small rural village consisting of a few small stores, a restaurant, cemetery, church, and this pousada. It is 14k to Braga, 64k to Porto, and within easy reach of Portugal’s only national park.
This restored Cistercian monastery is delightful - I could have stayed a week. The entrance leads into a hushed stone foyer lit with well-placed wall lighting that doesn’t detract from its monastic history. The long passageways called to mind the many monks who walked beneath these stone arches in contemplative silence. The deep crimson floor covering would not have been in evidence in the monk’s day, nor would the walls, tinted in a pale butter, have been allowed in their aesthetic environment.
Our room, moderate in size, certainly not cell-like, was modern. Brown and orange '70s design linens and teak furniture jarred with the peaceful ambience of the rest of the building.
The bathroom was huge, with lovely azulejos in pale colors and also a shower and deep bathtub. Fragrant potpourri added to its charm, along with thick, soft white robes {available for purchase at the front desk for $28}. Other amenities were satellite TV, hair dryer, tissues, in-room minibar, and fragrant soaps. The focal point of the room was a wonderful floor-to-ceiling window that gave us a breathtaking view over the Minho--and the bed was placed in the center of the room, directly facing this natural painting.
There was a swimming pool located at the rear of the garden, set amidst beautifully tended shrubs and trees. We availed ourselves of the bar, which was located at the side of the building leading onto a terrace, with views of the Minho, and later we relaxed indoors in the cozy sitting area. Piped-in classical music added to the ambience. The cloister was a serene place; one could imagine the soft steps of reflective monks treading the quiet pathways. I found it mystical at night.
Breakfast was included in the price {€190} and was served in an atmospheric dining area reminiscent of a monk’s refectory or castle. The generous hot and cold buffet was replenished promptly, and piped-in music played Gregorian chants throughout the meal. We did not eat here the first night because we were late arriving, so we availed ourselves of a local restaurant facing the Pousada. The local family made us very welcome, and we were its only customers. We had supper here at the pousada the next night--a three-course feast of regional dishes and wine {traditionally sipped from large bowls}. I highly commend the food and service at this little Eden.