The restoration of this 12th-century convent, in the “remote and dramatic valley” of the Sintra-Cascais natural park, has produced an “eclectic, welcoming, well-run and very personal” small hotel, according to a visitor. It was the fruit of three years” work by architect João Kaditch, a medieval enthusiast, and his Scottish business partner, John Nelson Perrie, a designer. “The furnishings are a remarkably diverse antiquarian mixture.” Bedrooms, “comfortable and well appointed”, have beams; there are attic ceilings, canopy beds and old paintings. The suites are in a modern annexe 50 metres (“and 80 steps”) from the main building. The gardens, full of geese, ducks and dogs, are “decorative and practical”. An 111 metre by four metre swimming pool has been created from an old cistern: beside it, in summer, snacks are served. The communal breakfast is sometimes taken in the old kitchens, sometimes at a long table in the dining room which has a period feel. Dinner can be provided, given advance notice. Many restaurants are in the surrounding hills and villages. Beautiful beaches are nearby. Yoga, qigong, and cooking workshops are run by the hotel which also offers massages and accupuncture of various kinds.