Pousada Mosteiro Amares

This hotel offers a truly unique and memorable experience, set within a magnificently restored 800-year-old monastery. Its signature feature is the seamless blend of historic architecture with modern comfort, creating an atmosphere of profound tranquility and beauty. Guests consistently praise the attentive and friendly staff, who contribute significantly to a welcoming and comfortable stay. The hotel is an ideal retreat for couples seeking a romantic and peaceful getaway, families looking for a relaxing environment, and especially history enthusiasts or architecture lovers who appreciate the thoughtful preservation and design. The serene environment makes it perfect for those seeking relaxation and a break from daily life. To enhance your visit, explore the extensive grounds and cloisters, and consider dining at the hotel's acclaimed restaurant. For guests traveling with pets, the hotel is notably pet-friendly, offering special amenities for furry companions.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of well-regarded facilities that enhance the guest experience. The outdoor swimming pool is a popular spot for relaxation, complemented by beautiful gardens and expansive terraces that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Guests appreciate the various common areas, including cozy spaces with fireplaces and a billiard table, providing options for leisure and socializing. While the Wi-Fi generally functions, some guests noted it could be weak in certain areas. Parking is available and generally considered easy and safe, though some areas might have uneven surfaces. The hotel also features a lift, though a few guests experienced delays or non-functionality, particularly during busy check-in times. Overall, the amenities contribute to a comfortable and engaging stay within the historic setting.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms comfortable and spacious, often highlighting the beautiful views they offer of the countryside or gardens. The beds are comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, feedback on cleanliness and maintenance is mixed; while many describe rooms as immaculate, some noted minor issues such as degraded bathtubs, stains, or an "old and moldy" flair in certain areas, suggesting a need for updates. Noise levels can be a concern, with reports of sound traveling easily between rooms and noisy plumbing from adjacent accommodations. The air conditioning sometimes receives comments about being weak or noisy, and some guests found the lighting insufficient for reading. Additionally, some bathroom designs were criticized for lacking a washbasin plug or having doors that interfere with wardrobe access.

Dining & Food Quality
The dining experience at the hotel receives considerable attention, with breakfast consistently praised as "fantastic" and "excellent," offering a varied and high-quality spread. However, some guests expressed disappointment with the coffee being instant rather than freshly brewed, and the orange juice not being from local sources. The restaurant itself is described as beautiful and atmospheric, providing a pleasant setting for meals. Dinner receives mixed reviews; while many guests find the food quality to be very good and delicious, some feel the prices are steep and the dishes do not always live up to the hotel's overall standard, suggesting a need for a top chef. The bar is noted for its good service and generous drink measures, contributing positively to the evening experience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is frequently highlighted as a significant draw, offering a serene and tranquil atmosphere amidst a beautiful mountain landscape. It is conveniently situated between Braga and the Gerês National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural beauty and historical sites. However, guests should be aware that the hotel is in a somewhat remote location, with limited amenities directly surrounding it, necessitating a car for getting around and accessing nearby attractions or hiking trails. Despite its secluded feel, the hotel offers easy and safe parking for guests. The stunning views from the property are consistently mentioned as a major highlight, contributing to the overall sense of peace and escape.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently commend their attentive service, noting their willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The check-in process is generally described as efficient, contributing to a smooth arrival. The hotel is particularly lauded for its pet-friendly service, warmly welcoming animal companions and providing special amenities like beds and food. For those celebrating special occasions, the staff often surprise guests with thoughtful gestures such as cakes or sparkling wine. The team's dedication extends to wedding planning, with many couples praising their expertise and support in organizing memorable events, making the hotel a highly recommended venue for such celebrations.

Additional Information
Beyond the standard offerings, the hotel stands out for its unique identity as a historic monastery masterfully transformed by renowned architectural design. This blend of ancient structure and modern comfort creates a truly immersive and tranquil atmosphere, making it a favored choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat. The hotel's strong pet-friendly policy is a significant highlight, with staff providing dedicated amenities for furry guests, though common areas remain restricted. It is also a highly sought-after wedding venue, with many guests commending the exceptional event planning and service. While the overall experience is positive, some guests noted ongoing maintenance needs in certain areas, and there were occasional mentions of a noisy air conditioning unit in the car park. Access to the adjacent church is generally limited to services, with some guests suggesting a protocol for broader visitation.