Parador Casa da Insua

This luxurious hotel is set in a magnificent, Baroque-style former estate, surrounded by beautiful gardens in the countryside just outside of the peaceful, quiet village of Penalva do Castelo, 25 kilometres from Viseu. The hotel's romantic rooms are decorated in the traditional local style and feature modern amenities such as internet access. Guests might spend leisurely afternoons lounging by the large, heated outdoor swimming pool, savouring local wines and cheeses in the wine tasting room, or learning how to make sweets in the confectionery. There is also a games room, cloister, reading room and a small museum for guests to explore. The onsite restaurant serves regional dishes and wine pairings in a refined setting, and the wonderful 18th-century gardens add a touch of romance and grandeur, all for a fantastic getaway to the countryside in the heart of Portugal.