The Pousada Dom Afonso II at Alcacer do Sal is 71 kilometres from Lisbon and is situated at the start of the vast plains of the Alentejo region which stretch to the south and the east.

Alcacer do Sal is located on the estuary of the Sado River where the marshes have been converted into paddy fields in order to grow rice.

In Europe, the Portuguese are the largest consumers of rice per capita and they are also the largest producers.

To the west of the Pousada lies the Troia peninsula with its long sandy beaches where it is possible to find a long stretch all to ones self.

In the area there are many traces of previous civilizations ranging from Phoenician villages to Roman ruins. All around there is evidence of the Arab influence following the occupation of the area by the Moors. They were expelled from Portugal with the help of the Crusaders.

The castle has a history stretching back 5000 years and has now been converted into luxurious accommodation of 2 suites 16 superior rooms and 17 standard rooms.

The Pousada is air conditioned and has lifts together with facilities for the disabled. Small conferences can also be held here.

The restaurant prides itself on local dishes which might be mussel soup followed by mackerel on a skewer. The main course is often roast pork with stuffed potatoes followed by Araceli convent cake. On another day, there might be vegetable soup followed by tomato rice with fried eel, Lamb stew being served for the main course followed by egg pudding for dessert.

Golfers can enjoy the courses at Montado, Troia, Quinta do Peru and Aroeira which can be seen by clicking on the name.

There is a swimming pool at the Pousada which has underwater lighting for evening swimming.

The Sado estuary is a protected area with many wading birds in the tidal marshes. These can be seen from hides, from walking the nature trails, by bicycle, from horseback, river cruise or four wheel drive vehicle - or even from a hot air balloon.

In the waters of the river and the coast are facilities for canoeing and diving and other water sports.

More aggressive sports include hunting, shooting and fishing together with archery and crossbow shooting and paint ball.

Trips by car can be made to the dams of Altar and Vale do Gaio.

The Natural Park of Arrabida is within easy reach with its south facing sandy coves and the fishing village of Sesimbra with many fish restaurants.

This Pousada has car park and facilities for disabled.