Convento Senhora Da Vitória

Let me clarify something: these days I don't write reviews for TripAdvisor. But I decided to open an exception to Convento Senhora da Vitória as it was so special. I was hesitating. It was my birthday and I wanted to chose well the place for the night. Castelo de Vide is lovely and then I saw the listing of Convento Senhora da Vitória. I was a bit taken aback by previous guests reviews but in the end I just followed my instinct and booked. This was the smartest thing to do. The place was indeed special and magic. Wow! It's not everyday that one has the chance to spend time and sleep in a historical building. And the convent was renovated and adapted in the best possible way. Each corner hides new surprises. Each room is cozy, homey and atmospheric. The decoration is lovely. The piles of magazines and books add a touch of class. The details are amazing: the efforts to heat up such a cold structure, the fire always burning in the fireplace living room, the attention to the comfort of the guests. Breakfast was impeccable, location was generally quiet and I had a great night of sleep. Wi-fi was stable and fast. My bedroom was awesome! What a view! What a space! The bathroom needed some attention at a maintenance level but was beautiful and full of charm. I have no words to describe how much the place. I travel a lot, I stayed in hundreds of hotels, hostels, guesthouses, homestays. And this one goes straight to my top 5. It's unique. Now, if you are picky and strict, stay away, it's not a place for you. If you are obsessed with details and expect the coldness of a hotel room, look somewhere else. If you have magic and fantasia in your heart, if you love unique places with history, look no further! P.S. - There is space for improvement at the reception, which was not welcoming. Not rude, but not warm either. The place deserves more. Also, it's not good to ask payment on the check in... it lacks charm and style, that's more adequate to a roadside cheap motel.