Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas

Bait and switch? Well, not quite, but certainly a misleading first impression. The gated entry to the grounds, the long drive to the palatial entry and the valet waiting to take your car, The grand entryway and furnishings all lead one to believe that you are in for a rare treat. The reality is rather disappointing. We stayed in the garden room, and it is downstairs in a somewhat musty smelling location, and the room is best described as "mediocre Marriott". Not bad, but really nothing to write home over except for being large (by European standards). The room was probably restored in the 80's or 90's sometime and were done distinctly on a budget. My advice is do not get the garden room, or any of the cheaper rooms which are in the distinctly unattractive "new" spa wing. Maybe the more expensive suites are worth the price, but I highly doubt it. While you cannot knock the service here, the staff are wonderful and attentive, the serious refurbishment. Everything is looking a bit tired and in need of fresh paint and a bit of a fluff (don't get me started on the horrid carpeting they have everywhere!). We stayed the night before at the Torel Royal Court in Guimares and it was 2/3 the price and easily twice as nice. To my way of thinking, this is just not worth the money being asked. I think it could be made into a truly magnificent hotel deserving of the 5-star rating (right now it is at best maybe a 3.5 star), but the owners would need to pour in about $20M in renovation/restoration to make the rooms capture a feeling of being in a Palace and experiencing something special.

Good history hotel with nice spa. Yes spa building and rooms looks like from 80x but they are clean amd nice. I also like garden. Quite historical place , very nice location if you need stay at city with car.

The hotel and grounds are fantastic. Service is spectacular. I would recommend NOT dining at the on-site restaurant for dinner (breakfast is very, very good).