Pousada Convento de Tavira

We stayed a week in a standard room. The rooms are well appointed; air con, safe, balcony, mini bar fridge with complimentary water, kettle and Nespresso coffee maker. The shower is over a bath which might be an issue with those with mobility issues but not for us. That said, the whole of Tavira is cobbled so if a guest had mobility issues, Tavira probably isn’t a good choice. The hotel is stunning. A converted convent built in 1568, later used as an army barracks and then left deserted for 30 years before being very sympathetically restored in 2006. All the beautiful features such as stone floors, stone door archways, staircase handrails etc are retained and add to the character of the building.
The pool is a good size but not heated and there is a small children’s pool. Not many sun beds but we found only half were ever used so never had an issue getting two. Umbrellas for shade also plentiful. Late afternoon there was often a complimentary glass of juice which is a nice touch.
Breakfast was fabulous, well stocked and diverse with pastries, fruit, hot food and numerous cheeses, cooked meats and more.
We ate in the restaurant once and the food and service were excellent.
Any negatives? Housekeeping one day didn’t leave coffee pods, spare loo roll and took our bath and pool towels without replacing but that was rectified at lightening speed when I raised it. The following day they took one of the dressing gowns too and didn’t replace it. The other issue, as some have mentioned, there is archeological digging taking place in the central courtyard which is a shame as the area would have been beautiful and is (tastefully) cordoned off. It’s not of their making so nothing can be done but it didn’t detract from our enjoyment. It wasn’t going on whilst we were there so there isn’t noise but it means that the courtyard is cordoned off.
The staff are also extremely friendly and very helpful. I would stay again without question and would recommend to anyone in a heartbeat.

The perfect hotel for a relaxing break. The location just on the edge of the old town made for (relatively) easy walking into Tavira. All of the main sites are within easy walking distance - being mullion of the cobbles of course. Our room was comfortable with a walk in shower and small balcony - just what we needed. The housekeeping team were tremendous with everything spick and span. The pool is brilliant with plenty of loungers and it was also incredibly quiet - with guests reading playing backgammon or simply relaxing in the warm sunshine. Loved the breakfast too. There is some archaeological work in the courtyard just now and although the staff worked around the issue with ease - its fair to say we would look forward to returning to appreciate the Pousada in all space and glory. Finally the staff team were exceptional from our arrival, to breakfast, to the bar and evening meal. Real hospitality in action from all of them - thank you to Christiana, Tatiana, Ana, Elton, Paul, John, Alexandre and everyone else - total stars.

Lovely hotel and wonderful staff