The Noble House ★★★★

The City of Évora, capital of the Alentejo region in Portugal, is unexpectedly lovely, wearing its classical past with an easy grace. The Moorish-influenced buildings have the trademark mustard-yellow trim, and the Roman Temple is an elegant reminder of its illustrious heritage, with the whole city now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the most distinguished buildings of the city, The Noble House ****, has its origins in the 15th century. It started its long career as the residence of the Counts of Lousã, became a school for a period and a hotel in the 1920s. Details, like the granite Tuscan column supporting a vaulted dome in the reception area, and the bar converted from the 17th-century kitchen, with the original handmade tiles glazing the chimney, are a constant reminder of bygone glories. A stretch of stone arcades on the ground floor was designed for access to the carriage stables, now brilliantly converted into bedrooms directly adjoining the Roman wall.

Still, this establishment does not rest on its laurels. The standard of comfort is just what you hope for, making it the perfect launching pad for exploring the city and wider Alentejo. The breakfasts served in a beautiful room with brick-vaulted ceilings, or on the terrace, feature a delicious mix of the famous Alentejo bread, traditional meats and cheeses and homemade preserves. And in the bar, the relaxed atmosphere makes an ideal setting to sample some regional wine, a juice or a cocktail. Altogether a noble experience!