Pousada de Sao Miguel

Sousel - Alentejo - Portugal

Sousel is a great base for exploring the beautiful Alentejo plains scattered with pretty little villages and virtually untouched by tourism.

The region has a wealth of stone circles, dolmens, and standing stones, bearing witness to the civilization here in prehistoric times.

Seventeen kilometres south of Sousel is the little town of Estremoz. 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.

The influence of other cultures is apparent such as the battlements which have a Moorish feel.

Situated in the lower town is the large market square. The bustling Saturday market sells everything from olives and cheeses 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.

Alternatively spend a leisurely few hours browsing through the numerous antique shops.

For horse lovers, a visit to Alter do Chao is a must. This royal stud farm was founded in the eighteenth century by D Joao V and is open to the public.

The beautiful Lusitanian horses are highly sought after worldwide, and are favourites of the Lisbon riding school.

The accommodation at the Pousada de Sousel comprises 28 standard rooms and 4 suites. The suites have private terraces and some of the standard rooms are inter-connecting. The Pousada has conference facilities.

It is a fantastic place to enjoy some of the best hunting Portugal has to offer, and to sample some wonderfully rich game cuisine.

Many activities are available in the area. These include shooting, horse riding, four wheel vehicle, country walking, driving, archery, fishing, and hot air ballooning.