This former royal residence high on a hill overlooks the little town of Estremoz. The room in which Saint Queen Isabel died in 1336 is now a small chapel in her memory.

The area around the town is rich in marble which in many instances has been utilized to replace traditional building materials, giving even the smaller houses a sense of opulence.

Due to its strategic hilltop position overlooking the Alentejo plains, Estremoz was one of the most important fortifications in the country and the influence of other cultures is reflected in the battlements which have a Moorish feel.

Situated in the lower town is the large market square and the bustling Saturday market sells everything from olives and cheese to the locally produced red earthenware pottery.

While in the area, visit the little white marble town of Borba and sample the locally produced wine which is considered to be one of the best in the country or spend a leisurely few hours browsing through the numerous antique shops.

Approximately 20 kilometres from Estremoz is the last royal residence of the House of Braganca in the town of Vila Vicosa.

The Paco Ducal is open to the public and houses fine examples of porcelain, azulejos and tapestries. The royal chambers give an insight into the lifestyle of the family until the monarchy was deposed in 1910.

To the east of the Palace square is the Augustinian convent containing the tombs of the Bragancan Dukes. The tombs of their wives are in the Convento das Chagas on the south side of the square.

Just to the north of the town is 5,000 acre royal hunting ground.

The Pousada at Estremoz is one of the most luxurious in the group.

The public rooms contain fine period pieces and tapestries connected by marble corridors and grand staircases.

All the bedrooms have been individually designed and many have four poster beds and locally made rugs on the floor.

There are spectacular views of the plains which combine with the atmosphere of this historic royal residence to make an unforgettable stay.

The Pousada has a swimming pool and can arrange theme tours. Walking, cycling and fishing are also available outside the Pousada. There are also facilities for small conferences.