As we were told that this pousada was a nice place to dine we made a reservation for diner only.
While finding our way to the restaurant in the pousada we found ourselves in the middle of a large company venue from Randstad. We were we ushered to an ajoining space, were one other couple were already dining; they were not looking too pleased.
Most of the tables were removed, and loud music was pumping through the wall. Although we booked that same afternoon, nothing was said about this all pervading happening where individual guests just get lost into.
Somewhat reluctant we ordered, as it was too late to find another place to dine in this northern Portugese area.
By the time the main course arrived, the staff started removing the tablewear from the remaining tables, dismembering the tables and removing them, all in our presence while we were eating. As if we were not there!
As the atmosphere was already far from jolly, I asked for the manager, who made excuses referring to the Randstad-venue, being more than he could handle. I told him that if that was his main concern he should not take individual reservations, but consider it a private party, and not batter individual guests in this way.
What we ate was good, but the evening was so spoilt and that we decided not finish and left.

This is a fabulous place to stay--a massive monastery redesigned by a top architect: vast public rooms, huge fireplaces, courtyards, pools, a beautiful dining room in the old refectory, and lovely views across the fields and hills. It seems more suited for long, resort-style stays (there is a pool and tennis court) than as a base for tourism; the staff knew hardly anything about the surrounding area and had no sightseeing advice. Admittedly, we were there in the off-season; the place had only a few guests and apparently a skeleton staff, so it was a little creepy and service was spotty (to get a drink we had to ask the front desk to phone the bartender, who was doubling in the dining room; a fire was lit but then left to go out, smokily; they forgot to turn on the lights in the upstairs hall, so we were bumping around in the dark; and no one mentioned that you have to activate the main power switch in your room before any of the lights will go on or the shades go down). Dinner in the near-deserted dining room was fancy but only so-so; the servers seemed well-drilled but uncomfortable. Pousadas are a nice idea and this is certainly a stunning property, but I wonder if they don't aspire to a level of elegance that is hard to deliver in the Portuguese countryside.

I stayed a night here in about 2007 at the end of a holiday with 'On Foot' Walking holidays. Their description of the hotel had been understated so it was a great surprise to be arrive in such a stunning place. The building is just beautiful and there is always a sense of being in a truly special place - whether walking in the corridor, being in the restaurant or in the minimalist but comfortable rooms. I think it may have been the stone walls everywhere. Almost like being outside. Down with plastered walls. We were travelling in Spring time and I recall a cold but very refreshing dip in the outdoor pool. I must return.

Most reviewers get it spot on. This is a magnificent setting and food is excellent. Wine prices are extremely competitive with superb choice.

I have a couple of small niggles though:

• access to the reception area from the car park outside requires a difficult trek with heavy suitcases up a flight of stairs. (The lift is hidden round the corner and approach to it poor). Where is a porter/concierge to help?
• charges for internet and water in the room are steep (if a coffee house gives free internet with a €2 coffee why does a €150 a night place charge)
• why play international 'elevator music' in the main areas and at breakfast? This is a fantastic old portuguese setting so why not celebrate it's musical heritage too. You can only take so much Kenny G!
• Strange choice of location for the bar area (a design issue rather than one of service). I saw nobody in it during the two days we spent.