Convento Do Espinheiro, Historic Hotel & Spa, Evora
About the Hotel
Convento do Espinheiro, Historic Hotel & Spa, is a 15th-century convent located 2 km from the historic center of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This hotel offers a unique blend of history and luxury, attracting guests with its royal past and tranquil atmosphere. It features a range of guided activities, including cycling tours and culinary workshops, that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Alentejo region. The hotel's setting amidst 8 hectares of gardens adds to its appeal as a rejuvenating retreat.
Location
Situated just outside the city center of Évora, the hotel is accessible via major routes from Lisbon, making it convenient for travelers. Évora’s historical landmarks, such as the Roman Temple and Chapel of Bones, are within easy reach. Guests may avail themselves of international rail services and regional transport options to explore the broader Alentejo region.
Rooms
The hotel boasts 92 guest rooms, including five luxurious suites. Guests can choose between rooms with modern decor inspired by the 1950s or those designed to reflect the convent's historic charm. Each room features spacious bathrooms equipped with separate whirlpool bathtubs and walk-in rainforest showers. The accommodations also come with premium Bvlgari amenities and complimentary bathrobes and slippers.
Eat & Drink
Dining at Convento do Espinheiro includes the gourmet restaurant Divinus, located in the former monks' wine cellar, where guests can experience traditional Alentejo cuisine mixed with Mediterranean influences. The hotel also offers casual dining options at the Olive restaurant, with a focus on Italian cuisine. Additionally, the Cloister Bar provides a relaxing space for drinks and light snacks amid beautiful historic surroundings.
Leisure & Business
The hotel features a state-of-the-art fitness center equipped with Technogym technology. Guests can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including tennis, paddle courts, and jogging paths through its extensive gardens. For business travelers, the venue offers well-equipped meeting rooms, including the S. Jerónimo Room, suitable for events and conferences. A luxurious spa provides a range of treatments that blend modern techniques with traditional therapies.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Parking
- Safe deposit box
- 24-hour reception
- VIP check-in/ -out
- Express check-in/ -out
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Wheelchair access
- 24-hour security
- Luggage storage
- Locker room
- Allergy-free rooms
- Lift
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key card access
Sports & Fitness
- Fitness centre
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Cycling
- Tennis court
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Paid airport shuttle
- Valet parking
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Dry cleaning
- Tours/Ticket assistance
- Welcome drink
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Restaurant
- Snack bar
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Picnic area/ Tables
- Packed lunches
- Special diet menus
Business
- Business centre
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Cots
- Babysitting/Child services
- Board games
- Children's menu
- Children's pool
- Children's play area
Facilities for people with disabilities
- Bathroom for disabled
Spa & Leisure
- Infinity pool
- Indoor swimming pool
- Beach umbrellas
- Sun loungers
- Live entertainment
- Sun terrace
- Garden area
- Spa & wellness centre
- Sauna
- Turkish bath
- Steam room
- Jacuzzi
- Body scrub
- Facial
- Treatment room
- Body wraps
- Back massage
- Head massage
- Full body massage
- Foot massage
Room features
- Free Wi-Fi in rooms
- Air conditioning
- Heating
- Mini-bar
- Soundproofed rooms
- Sitting area
- Patio
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- Direct dial telephone
- CD player
- AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
- Parquet floor
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel has a great location with a mix of positives and negatives. The rooms have varying views and check-in timing could be improved, but the service is mostly friendly though a bit slow. The location offers historical charm but cold water, and the dining experience is delightful. The facilities are decent but have room for enhancement.
The hotel had excellent room cleanliness just before 3 pm, with luxury bed and bathroom. The rooms were big with nice views of the property/nature. The service was top-notch, with hosts taking great care of us. The location, while needing minor maintenance, was relaxing and ideal for group stays in an actual monastery. The dining experience was fantastic, especially with divine chocolate cake. The facilities were top-notch, including manicured gardens and indulgent pools. However, the hotel was unwilling to grant a one-hour extension when requested.
The hotel offers a mix of positives and drawbacks. While the rooms were clean, comfortable, and nicely appointed with good space, the darkness might not suit everyone, especially in a country known for its beautiful weather. The distance from common areas could be a downside. On the upside, the setting provides lovely views across an olive-grove encircled pool to Evora. The service was friendly and attentive, with staff offering insights into local wine and dining options. The location outside Evora in the countryside is superb, though the sounds from nearby pastures could be a hit or miss. Dining was described as sublime and extensive, showcasing an array of options, including fresh honey, while the cinnamon rolls were a particular highlight.
The hotel had practical and spacious rooms with a large terrace, but the steps up to the dining area could be dangerous for older guests. The service was outstanding, professional, and friendly. The location, though peaceful and convenient for Evora, was a bit out of town, which may pose challenges for guests with limited transportation access. The dining experience was first class, offering a high standard with delicious varieties. The facilities were well-maintained and enjoyable.
Staying at the old Convent do Espinheiro was a unique experience. The rooms were spacious and the balcony added a nice touch, but there was some noise due to lack of corridor separation. The hotel is minutes away from Evora, offering a relaxing retreat after exploring the city. The service was very friendly and helpful, making me feel welcome and valued. The dining experience had some shortcomings, and it would be great to see more variety, especially with vegetables. The location is simply beautiful, surrounded by history and well-maintained gardens.
The hotel offers a stunning mix of old and new styles in a gorgeous countryside setting. The comfortable bed and picturesque views make for an unforgettable stay, although room location may vary between the older and newer sections of the hotel.
The hotel offers spacious rooms with a lovely balcony for enjoying beautiful views over the countryside. The mix of old-world and new-world style creates a comfortable and charming atmosphere. However, some areas appear dated and could use renovation to enhance the overall experience.
I was amazed by the breathtaking mix of old-world and new-world style at the hotel. The rooms were beyond comfortable, and the closet space was generous. The free wifi and scrumptious breakfast spread added to the experience. The view over the countryside was simply unbeatable. However, the focus on rules rather than customer satisfaction, especially at the front desk, was a downside.