Portugal

Exploring the Castle
Pousada de Palmela, Castelo de Palmela occupies a position that has long
been a strategic point for securing control of the lands south of the Tagus. From
Palmela, Afonso Henríques, the first king of Portugal, drove out the Moors and
established his new nation’s domination of the district. In its day, the 12th-century
fortress was a splendid example of medieval military architecture.
Most of the guest rooms have been opened up, enlarged, and brought glamorously
up-to-date. They’re furnished in Portuguese style with hand-carved pieces and fine fabrics,
and most of the rooms open onto nice views. Near the dining room is a comfortable
drawing room with a noteworthy washbasin that the monks once used for their ablutions.
2950-997 Palmela. & 21/235-12-26. Fax 21/233-04-40. www.pousadas.pt. 28 units. 130€–230€ double;
from 176€ suite. Rates include buffet breakfast. AE, DC, MC, V. Amenities: Restaurant; bar; babysitting;
bikes; room service. In room: A/C, TV, hair dryer, minibar, Wi-Fi (in some; 12€ per day).
Inexpensive
Quinta do Patrício The oldest part of this charming, family-run bed-andbreakfast
hotel is its stone-sided windmill. Built in 1798, it’s now the establishment’s
most comfortable place to stay. Other rooms are in the main house, a short walk away
through a nice garden. Don’t expect a conventional, international feel: Life here is slow,
revolving around the pleasant garden and tastefully decorated public areas. The simple
guest rooms are small, comfortable, and well maintained, with neatly kept bathrooms.
Breakfast is the only meal served. The quinta lies about .4km ( 1 ⁄4 mile) west of the center
of town.
Estrada do Castelo de São Felipe, 2900-300 Setúbal. & 26/555-04-75. Fax 26/523-38-17. www.quinta
dopatricio.com. 3 units. 95€–1120€ double. Rates include buffet breakfast. No credit cards. Amenities:
Outdoor pool. In room: No phone.
207
SOUTH OF THE TAGUS 8
PALMELA