A former 16th Century Convent
carefully restored and offering superb accommodation in Pousada Tavira, the Algarve, Southern
Portugal.
This was once the Convent of
the Cloistered Augustinian Nuns, founded by King D. Sebastiao around 1569.
It stands on the castle hill
on the site of what was once most likely the Jewish quarter. Its most noteworthy
features are the 16th and 17th Century Renaissance cloister, the facade
facing the main square and the central staircase, both in baroque style.
During its careful renovation,
several archaeological traces of Islamic origin were discovered. As
a result, the plans were changed in order to incorporate these important
findings in the renovated building. They are now partially visible from
the bar.
Following the restoration
there is now a multi-purpose function room in the old church.
Tavira is a very typical
city in the Algarve, it has been influenced by many civilizations; it was
once a Phoenician village, it was habited by the Romans and it was an important
city during the Muslim occupation.
The region is characterized
by many sunny days which are ideal for exploring this beautiful region.
The accommodation at the
Pousada Tavira comprises a total of 36 rooms.
There are 27 standard rooms,
some with small balconies and 3 superior rooms, one of which has a private
garden.
There are also 6 suites,
one is a duplex, another has a terrace and private garden and another,
a small balcony.
This Pousada also has a room
for disabled persons.
The bedrooms all have private
bathroom, air conditioning, telephone, Cable television and LCD, internet
connection, mini-bar and hair dryer.
Facilities at the Pousada Tavira include restaurant, bar, cloisters, terrace, multi function room, gymnasium, 2 swimming pools (one for adults and one for children)
family games and parking.
Dining in Portugal is usually
very good and the restaurants of the Pousada group hotels are no exception.
They offer a variety of dishes including a selection of local and regional
specialities.
Nearest beaches are in the Island of Tavira. A boat to the island departs near the Pousada. Manta Rota beach is approximately 15 minutes away by car.
In the area there is a variety of water sports available.
The Tavira market and the
Antiques Fair are held the 3rd Saturday of each month.
There are also many other
fairs and festivities held from April to December.
Interesting places to visit
in the area include a Roman bridge, a Moorish Castle, Museum and the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
The wonderful golf courses,
for which the Algarve is renowned world wide, can be seen at Algarve Golf Courses.
The international airport
at Faro is approximately 30 kilometers from this Pousada of Portugal.
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