Immerse yourself in tranquility, comfort, gourmet cuisine and the most beautiful natural environment northern Portugal has to offer. You can find it all at Casas Novas Countryside Hotel!
History
In July 2008 the stunning property of Casas Novas Countryside Hotel started out slowly, and has since developed into quite the estate. Sitting on several acres, the property boasts not just its old historical wing which has been beautifully renovated, but so much more. With the construction having taken place dating back all the way to 1749, the building may be old, but the mentality is far from antiquated.
With an array of modern conveniences, you will find the best of both worlds at Casas Novas. Set out in the small village of Casas Novas, the hotel is the biggest attraction in town. Which is really no surprise, considering that you’ll only find 60 neighboring residents. Relaxation is key at ‘Novas’, and while you may delight in knowing that they have some of the fastest WIFI connection you’ve ever had, taking a book or having a glass of wine on your massive terrace is maybe more what you’re looking for.
Comfort & Style
The countryside hotel is also perfect for getting away from it all in comfort. With the historical building appealing to those of us with unique taste, the modern annex is just that – very modern. Comfortable mattresses, picturesque patio views, and fully-stocked bathrooms including tasteful decor await your visit.
But what makes Casas Novas so special compared to other towns and villages in the area? For one, it’s their special size. With 3 acres of just gardens alone, the countryside hotel isn’t just any hotel. The owner proudly states that what sets them apart from hotels in neighboring towns is their wait staff and food. Having hired staff who are only interested in pleasing guests is top priority to Fernando, who has been running the hotel since its inception.
Gourmet Food
And while the staff are fantastic at ‘Novas’, it’s the food that really steals the show. With a gourmet chef, who has turned home-style cooking recipes into artistic creations, no one is disappointed with their meal. I personally had some of the best food during my entire month in Portugal, at Casas Novas Countryside Hotel. The first night there, I was lucky enough to sample nearly all their appetizers and entrees, and even managed to try their scrumptious dessert. Try the sausage. And the salmon.
As there are no other locations in the village where one can buy food, it’s crucial to the hotel’s reputation they maintain a high standard of quality and taste. They meet these standards, no question. And in fact, they even go above and beyond with the quality of their ingredients. With only fresh items in each and every meal, guests will be pleased to know that every dish is served with care, attention and integrity.
Guests are also content with the convenience of not having an overload of choices of where to dine each afternoon and evening. Breakfast is included with the cost of the room, and delicious it is indeed. Eggs served fresh and made to order however you like, juices, coffee, pastries and rolls are also waiting for you when you arrive at your table.
Whether you’re having your afternoon or evening meals, the music is always an accompaniment to your experience at their fine dining restaurant. With a spectacular view of their property and of God’s beautiful creation, you can enjoy a sunset from your room, or while having dinner in the dining area.
Quinta de Arcossó
Maybe the most exceptional thing they have on their menu though is not the food. It’s the wine. Partnering with a local winery, the hotel offers some of the most delicious Portuguese wine you’ve never heard of, but absolutely need to try. Having been able to visit the vineyard and meet the cultivator and owner of the winery myself, I got to taste several of their unique blends. Quinta de Arcossó may not be world famous yet, but give it time. With quality as good as this, you’ll be hearing more about it soon enough.
High Quality Standards for High Quality Guests
While Fernando does see the majority of his clients of the Portuguese persuasion, he does get other European nationals visiting him. Even some from Great Britain who go out of their way to return each year for a visit. If ever there was a compliment for a hotel, this would be it. This being said, primarily because the hotel is not so simple to find without a good GPS.
Set out a good four and a half hours from the country’s capital, unless you have a reason to be in the area, it’s a bit of a maze getting there by bus – though not impossible, as I did it myself.
Fernando stresses that their location is ideal for people who want to come and relax and be in a very safe environment. Whether they would like to go for a walk in the woods, stay at the hotel and read a book, enjoy their heated outdoor or indoor pools – the choices are nearly endless.
Spa & Events
Oh, and did I mention their gym and spa? Yes. Want to work on your arm curls and then have a massage following? No problem. Both located at the hotel’s pool area, you can help yourself to either the gym, or the spa, or both. With a well-trained masseuse on staff, Jennifer will help you achieve the highest level of relaxation if you haven’t already from the surrounding area.
Casas Novas Countryside Hotel also offers a romantic suite, which includes a Jacuzzi tub. Perfect for the many honeymooners who travel to the hotel, the estate isn’t just ideal for such guests because of the romantic themed room, but also for the ambiance of the estate in general.
Speaking of honeymooners, interested in having your wedding at Casas Novas? Good news. They hold many matrimonial events at the property including the reception parties at their magnificent banquet hall, located in another building on site.
They also have cocktail parties on occasion at the hotel, which is of course very nice out on their outdoor pool area. It might be worthwhile to note that they also offer events during Mother’s Day, Christmas, Easter and other such annual holidays.
And how do you get to Casas Novas? Their is a public bus that can take you from the Chaves train station straight to the little village of Casas Novas. That is, if you don’t have a car. Either way, you’ll enjoy the ride getting there. It’s God’s country. And if I may say, God has very good taste.
So what are you waiting for? You know you want to go. And when you book your next visit to Casas Novas Countryside Hotel, make sure to tell them that Lisa sent you!
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