The Pousada is situated on the banks of Portugal's largest reservoir and has stunning views of the lake.

It provides an oasis of calm for those wanting a break from the traffic of Lisbon or the crowds of the Algarve. It is also a good place to escape from the pressures of modern living.

The rolling hills are full of little known tracks waiting to be explored, many of which lead down to the waterside.

The surrounding Serra de Monchique is a beautiful area of mountains, streams and thermal springs.

The area has an abundance of pines, spruces and scented eucalyptus all basking in the hot sun of the Alentejo region.

In the local town of Santa Clara-a-Velha, the Church (known as Igreja Matriz) is worth a visit for its azulejos (painted tiles). Overlooking the town are the ruins of Nossa Senhora do Desterro, a 17th Century Franciscan monastery.

During your visit you should sample the locally produced arbutus brandy.

To the south is the small spa town of Caldas de Monchique, nestling in a wooded valley, which has a history going back to the days of the Roman occupation.

The spa waters became popular in the 19th Century resulting in the construction of many fine buildings. The spa is still in used today in the treatment hospital. The town also has a small bottling plant and the mineral water is sold throughout Portugal.

The spa waters became popular in the 19th Century resulting in the construction of many fine buildings. The spa is still in used today in the treatment hospital. The town also has a small bottling plant and the mineral water is sold throughout Portugal.

To the west of Santa Clara are the beautiful long, sandy beaches of the Atlantic Ocean which have the cooling 'Portuguese Trade Winds' blowing almost every afternoon.

The little coastal town of Milfontes makes an interesting day trip from the Pousada.

The accommodation comprises 1 suite and 18 bedrooms some of which are inter-connecting. The bedrooms all have private bathroom, air conditioning, hair dryer, bathing gowns, telephone, Cable television and mini-bar.

The Pousada is air conditioned and facilities include lift, lounge areas, family games, restaurant, bar, terrace, swimming pool, childrens play area and parking.

The restaurants of the Pousada group hotels offer a variety of dishes including a selection of local and regional specialities and an international menu.

Activities in the area include fishing, motor boat cruises, canoeing on the river, horse riding, four-wheel driving and country walks.

The locals celebrate the festival of Santa Clara, the patron saint, from 8 to 10 August each year.

The international airport at Faro is approximately 120 kilometers from this Pousada of Portugal.