Pousada de Amares - Santa Maria do Bouro

Hotel Pousada Santa Maria do Bouro at Amares is in a 12th century Cistercian monastery. The restoration of the building was under the direction of the famous modern day architect Eduardo Souto Moura. Situated between the historic town of Braga and Peneda Geres National Park it is an ideal base for exploring the beautiful Minho area of Portugal. Approximately fifteen kilometres away is the ancient town of Braga, the religious capital of Portugal with many fine churches, the most important of which is the Se (Cathedral), originally built in the 11th century on the site of a Moorish mosque. The Se has been added to through the centuries and contains a wealth of architectural gems. The museum houses a collection of religious treasures from the 11th century onwards. In the Capela dos Reis the naturally mummified body of Archbishop Lourenco can be viewed. Three kilometres to the north of Braga is the Capela de Sao Frutuoso, one of the oldest churches in the country, dating from the 7th century, and four kilometres to the east is the church Bom Jesus do Monte. Surrounded by beautiful gardens this church is reached by a stunning baroque staircase, of over 1000 steps, or by funicular for the fainthearted! To experience, probably the most beautiful countryside in Portugal, a visit to Peneda Geres (Portugal's only National Park) is a must. It has been described as "this green terraced paradise with a back drop of austere granite mountains is a haven to many endangered species of flora and fauna". It also contains sites of many ancient settlements from prehistoric and celtic civilisations". The town of Amares is about eighteen kilometres away. The Pousada has 30 rooms and 2 suites, all with en-suite bathroom. It has air conditioning, a lift and conference facilites. The Pousada has a swimming pool, a tennis court and other activities available include snooker, ornithology (18 kms. ), horse riding and fishing. The idyllic setting, surrounded by lush fields and vineyards where the famous Vinho Verde is produced, together with the beautiful architecture of the Pousada can only ensure a peaceful and relaxing stay.