My part of 3 stayed here for four nights in early April, 2011. We did so in conjunction with a series of hikes situated in the Parque Natural de Montesihno (Natural Park of Montesinho). As far as I can tell, short of being from this remote area, your only chance of doing these hikes is via this hotel, which provides helpful (if not defnitively so) maps and guides for several beautiful and moderately challenging hikes. I was told that few Portuguese or other Europeans visit this area of Portugal, which is a shame because it is beautiful and relatively easy to access (via express bus from Porto or Lisbon).
But on to the hotel itself, which I guess might better be called a retreat or an inn, but is in fact extremely comfortable and pleasurable to stay at. The place was built upon the 300 year-old ruins of another structure, and is beautiful for its stone and beam craftsmanship, inicluding a lovely fireplace and an infinity pool. The rooms are large, and include flat screen TVs and cable high-speed internet. The beds are large (even by American standards) and comfortable. The bathrooms are nicely appointed - some include stand-up showers along with tubs.
I believe that most if not all guests include breakfast and dinner with their rooms (you wouldn't want to try and find your own meals in this remote setting, anyway). The owner Robert is a wonderful cook who enjoys using local ingredients to their utmost. Each meal seemed better than the next!
If you're looking for a memorable, off-the-beaten-track-of-Europe destination, it's hard to imagine a better choice. Oh, by the way, Robert provides wine with dinner, but other drinks are available at a reasonable cost. He also made us lunches to take on our hikes.
