Hotel Fonte Santa

This is classified has a 4 star hotel, but I believe at least one of the stars has lost its shine long ago.... There some faults in the cleanliness of our rooms. Also the breakfast display its not protected from the flies and the cleanliness of some glasses is very bad. The location is good and this could be a great hotel, but it's not.

The place itself was a reminder that life can exist where we feel it is absent, hence an oasis. On the extremities of the SPA town of Monfortinho, region of Beira Baixa - close to the Spanish border - this small town has seen much better days since the pandemic. We cycled in to town during the week, and there was a visible reminder of how hard-hit this area had been. Caravan septic discharges not working, cycle maintenance stations close and neglected. 'For sale' signs up in many homes and businesses. I would imagine this place would have been buzzing back in 2018/19. Several of the hotels were closed here and we were fortunate to come across this one with some signs of life... The setting is a glorious Eden, with well maintained mature gardens. This is a dry region so hats off to whoever created this special place. The large multi-shaped pool is idyllic complete with an infinity section where water cascades to a catchment that cycles it around. It's very peaceful to sit here and swim and there are adequate sun-shades and a pool snack bar to cater to your whims. Staff were friendly though they haven't been trained adequately. Internet is average here as there is no high-speed, so if you want to stream a film then it's hardly adequate in the rooms. The breakfast was the most complete on our trip, first class and nothing lacking : fresh juices; baked breads/sweets; cereals; cooked eggs; an array of meats; excellent coffee, and all in buffet presentation with plenty of space to sit in or outside and overlook the gardens and listen to the birds and take in the serenity. The bed is very firm and not comfortable. The room is large enough and there is a full bath in you want to relax. They advertise bikes tours. There are only two cycles for a large hotel, so make sure you let them know prior to arriving if you want to use them. Overall, it's a wonderful relaxing location if you want to stay to wind down and make use of the spa (massage etc) close by. The pool at the spa is closed during these times. The food is good enough for meals. The breakfast is so abundant that you can make it last ! We miss the view and poolside area. Its impression and memory is indelibly stamped...