The atmosphere of this place is just fantastic. It's a great place to relax. Enjoy the view from high above the ocean and stroll around in this magnificent fortress. The steps up through the gateway also contribute to the fantastic atmosphere. Staff was extremely friendly and beakfast was good.

The only drawback was the first night when we stayed in a suite with ocean view, which was not located in the main building. We suffered from a few unwanted guests (i.e. insects). We then asked to move into the main building, where hygiene conditions were good instead. Apart from that the ocean view from the suite was not worth the extra money. Better have an inside room and enjoy the views when walking around the terrace...

The idea of staying in a 17th century fortress may seem attractive, but actually doing it is something else. The terrace had a fantastic view of the River Sado, and service at the desk and in the dining room was excellent, but this pousada is in a castle at the end of a very steep road. The entrance to reception is at the end of a corridor of many stone steps and no railings. No doorman greets you - you must ask the desk for someone to bring up the bags. Our room was on two levels. Fortunately the bed and bathroom were on the first, because it wasn't fun dealing with the staircase to get to the loft with its small sitting area, closet, and air conditioner. Sao Filipe is quaint but it is not quiet (sound reverberates in the halls), and there is hardly a railing in sight to help people manage the many steps. Anyone older than 50 would want to think twice about staying here.

It is a lovely setting with pretty views and the staff are very friendly and helpful. However, for what you pay I would not stay here again as the rooms are definitely below average. Curtains falling apart, old furniture (they really seem to take advantage of the fact that this is a historic building!), old bathroom and an old tiny, telly. Nice to stay in a historic building but for what they charge you'd expect modern comforts. Not for me.

And worth every penny! We stopped over in Setubal on our way to the Algarve and this was the most beautiful place, with unbelievable vistas, wonderful staff, well appointed guest rooms and a fabulous dining room.