Pousada de Marvao

We loved everything about Pousada de Marvao, the staff, its location, its beautiful dining area, its dinner, its amazing breakfast. We were given the option of staying in one of the older rooms or a newer room but opted for an older room for the view. The room was small but beautiful with a carved wooden headboard, old fashioned closets with carved wooden doors and a great shower. It also had a small balcony with a table and two chairs which we didn't use as it was a bit cold. I was traveling with my husband and his cousin and, after a long day, we elected to have dinner in the dining room. The food was fantastic; the food and wine selection was good. An early morning walk to the old fortified castle was very easy.

As with everyplace in Portugal, I should have asked for softer, less high pillows. I have a bad neck and do better with a very soft, almost flat pillow. Perhaps these are available but if they are not, it might be something to have on hand for people like me.

Breakfast was excellent with a good variety of hot and cold options. Pastries and breads were outstanding.

We struggled a little with communication at the desk when asking about things to do. I had booked a tour of the olive oil museum which is 10 minutes or so away. No one had heard of it and it was a treasure. A brochure stand with area points of interest would be helpful. Our tour guide said she had just taken brochures and talked with front desk the week before. The front desk staff said they didn’t know where they were.

We absolutely loved the location, right in the centre of the town. Our lovely cosy, charming room, with fantastic sized TV, and a little enclosed patio, which was super for our small dog. She was made so welcome with a little pack of treats. The views from the bar area and restaurant were fabulous.

One very small thing, the fires were not lit in the bar or lounge. It would have been so nice to sit and enjoy a drink after dinner by a warm fire. The weather was very chilly (February visit), and without the fire it felt a bit cold and soulless.

it was in the center of town, great location. dining room has an amazing view and the rooms were big and comfy. The reception lady Suzanna was so lovely and a wonderful way to check in. Makes you feel so welcomed and comfortable. The castle town itself was so beautiful and memorable. The castle was stunning!

The breakfast was not great.Constantly waiting for missing items and the lady attending it seems to not like her job. Either she didn’t like her job or just not enough help but either way was the real bummer of the posada itself when it can easily be the highlight. Food was cold and there was no way to heat up even a piece of bread. All tables were dirty with people’s earlier stuff. It was a disappointment.

Our room was small, but had a balcony with a spectacular view. You could not ask for a prettier setting for the Posada. The town is charming, perched on a hill with a panoramic view. The breakfast buffet was quite generous. Staff consistently friendly and helpful.

The naming is confusing. On Booking.com it is called Posada de Marvao, but the staff refer to it as Posada Santa Maria, I believe. It should be consistent.

Excellent location, great view, delicious breakfast, friendly staff

Room could use a refurbishment, specially the bathroom. Although it's very comfortable, some things are pretty old (the wardrobe doors, for instance - very noisy). Also, it would be nice to have an indoor pool somewhere, as a nice complement for a relaxing stay.

The staff fell over themselves to be welcoming, friendly and helpful. The situation of this pousada is spectacular and the evening meal we had, although on the expensive side, was good and served by an amiable and efficient waiter. Breakfast was made especially for us by Maria who worked hard to satisfy our, to her, unusual requests.

Very friendly and helpful staff, we enjoyed talking to them and learning about the area. Comfortable, large and nicely appointed rooms and delicious food. We ate a late lunch here and had a delicious lunch with an amazing view. We ate dessert here as well that night. This was a delightful stay and we would definitely return.

Bed was a little hard. That's it!

- great location (parking might be a bit inconvenient if you are not fit) - great staff - nice flair of the building

- the door lock took a bit to figure out (but it actually also enhanced the feeling for the old building)

This was a birthday stay ( our 2nd time ). We were their only guests that night and were spoilt rotten. The location is stupendous with stunning views from restaurant & bar lounge. The staff were incredibly friendly and made our stay.

Having to leave.