4 Best Hotels in Batalha, Estremadura and the Ribatejo

This cheerful little hotel—now a four star—in one of the quietest areas of Batalha offers superb views of the historic monastery in the valley below. It's especially popular with families because of its triple and communicating rooms, its playroom, and its two small pools. Guest rooms are individually decorated with touches of vibrant color and artworks, and have private terraces. There's no restaurant, but guests may dine in (or enjoy room service) thanks to an arrangement with several local eateries, and there's an honor bar in the cozy lounge—with ice cream!

"Get connected with nature" is the slogan of this innovative hotel, set amid olive groves in the Parque Natural Serras de Aire de Candeeiros. Its recipe of hiking, biking, and do-it-yourself gourmet cuisine has won prizes and international attention. There's a small spa (open mid-October through mid-April) and a pool out back, where hammocks and a nightly bonfire add to the laid-back mood. The restaurant serves light lunches, while for dinner there's a choice of shared plates (€28 for three) made from seasonal ingredients—or you can sign up for a cooking workshop (€42) overseen by a chef. A stylish sister hotel 200 yards away, The Nest, has another 8 rooms and 2 apartments at slightly lower rates, but no restaurant.

This smart, modern hotel on the edge of the old city makes for a comfortable base from which to explore Batalha, thanks to its large spa with a whirlpool tub, sauna, and steam room, and indoor pool with views of the gardens and the monastery. Many of the spacious rooms have balconies overlooking the same monument, and all have walk-in showers. For dinner (€19), Mediterranean cuisine, including a range of Portuguese starters, is served either to the Adega dos Frades restaurant (which also has a kids' menu) or the O Claustro bar, which boasts its own monastery views and a wide choice of spirits and fortified wines, as well as cocktails.

Named for the principal architect of the famous Batalha Monastery, this two-story stucco hotel is full of modern comforts, with good-size guest rooms furnished in a simple, modern style and featuring plush bathrobes and towel warmers. The first-floor Vintage restaurant (€19) is renowned for its bacalhau dishes and grilled meats; it also offers a choice of salads and has a children's menu.