Hotel description

One of Portugal’s best-kept secrets, the Quinta das Lágrimas is an authentic aristocratic residence on a sprawling garden estate in the inland city of Coimbra, the historic capital of the Kingdom of Portugal. Though steeped in history, it’s not all old-fashioned — beyond that stately golden exterior is a state-of-the-art luxury hotel, right down to the very modern Bamboo Garden Spa.

Rooms come in three flavors: opulent antique-style Palace rooms in the old mansion, lower-key but still traditional Garden rooms overlooking the estate’s tranquil gardens, and the contemporary minimalist Spa rooms, in the new modernist wing where the Bamboo Garden is located. And while the styles differ, the underlying experience is more or less the same: plentiful space, plush comforts, and up-to-date amenities, right down to the wireless internet.

The spa is among the Quinta das Lágrimas’ strengths; another is the on-site golf academy, complete with nine-hole mini-course — perfect for golf-mad Portugal, with two full courses within easy reach. Add to that a restaurant that’s been recognized by the Michelin guide and you’ve got the very picture of the modern small luxury hotel experience, all under one roof.