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The hotel, and its twin, are in a good location overlooking the river. It has a functional feel, it could perhaps do with some more colour, but our room was large and comfortable - and had a huge terrace with expansive views. We had a good breakfast, and an excellent outside bar features in the communal area bridging the hotel with its neighbour the Museu.

We spent four nights in this hotel during our birding tour. Our room was clean and well-maintained, the bed was comfortable, with enough good pillows to keep my happy, and there was wifi. However, the room was small, and there were only two very small bed stands and one small, narrow table on which we could put things. There were some drawers in the closet, but only a few coat hangers which were insufficient for two people spending four nights. We had to ask three times before we were given some additional ones. The bathroom was our biggest problem. For some reason, we were given a handicapped room, which we didn't need. The toilet was high enough that my feet could barely reach the floor. The sink was not set in a counter, so there was no place to put our toilet articles, and we had to use the plastic seat which was intended to be used in the shower for a shelf. The shower was the worst part. The walls could be folded and were not securely fastened to the base, so if you leaned on them, they could collapse, and they leaked water onto the floor outside. The stall was small enough that while washing, you could inadvertently hit the faucet handle and turn the water off. I can't say I ever enjoyed a shower during our stay. On the plus side, there was a very nice breakfast buffet which was served in an adjoining building.

This is a very good hotel, ideal for a weekend break and especially if you want to be near to the beautiful Guardiana river. We travelled up the Portuguese side and visited Mertola which was, to be honest, a bit underwhelming but as the road gave way to the Alentejo countryside, appreciation was lifted. The hotel was easy to locate, impressive even in the mist and gentle rain and we felt instantly that it wa a good choice. The reception was warm and friendly and our room was substantial with all facilities, very clean and well prepared and had a lovely view over the swimming pool. The observatory was under modification; the games room in the Library was good to have even though it was quite cold. We did arrive on a Sunday night - the restaurant was open with an understandably limited menu. One of us is a no-fish vegetarian and so it is our fault that there was nothing we could sit down to and we could find nothing open in the village. But it was our fault. Should have rung ahead. We would happily visit again. Breakfast was extensive and good but, other than pancakes, nothing hot.