2 Best Hotels in Leiria, Estremadura and the Ribatejo

To get away from it all, head 15 km (10 miles) north of Leiria to this grand hotel by a thermal spa that was once frequented by medieval monarchs, from which you can make forays into its 60 acres of leafy grounds and the surrounding countryside. The 1920s building houses some very stylish suites, with plenty of amenities, but the rooms in the new wing are also large and plush, and all have balconies. Guests can use the large outdoor pool, but note that the modern spa, next to the old hot springs (which are currently out of bounds), is not included in the room rate, though various packages are available. The Paços da Rainha restaurant (€19) serves gourmet Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients, while the Real Bar has snacks and drinks from late morning until after midnight.

A five-minute walk from downtown, this hotel has studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments---the latter accommodating up to five adults---that are simply but pleasantly furnished with fully equipped modern kitchenettes; most have castle views. By the rooftop pool (which is open year-round, although water quality is checked only from mid-May through September) is a café-bar that serves drinks and snacks from 6 pm until midnight on weekdays (and from 4 pm on weekends); otherwise there's just the minibar in reception.