Quinta da Cortiça - Casa da Torre

Location on the Camino and a lovely pool

First private accommodation without air con and at 39 degrees when we arrived that was a challenge. Room facilities basic , ran out of toilet paper and none to be found anywhere. Staff had left so unable to request ( available by phone ) chose not to.

The property was quaint and peaceful. The staff were incredibly kind and quick to answer any questions.

It’s beautiful, rural so quiet, spacious, lovely outdoor area, everything you need

Nothing

I chose Quinta da Cortiça because it looked beautiful and had excellent reviews. Having already walked the Camino Francés and now walking the Portuguese Camino, I genuinely thought this might be one of those special places where a pilgrim could enjoy a truly restorative stay. Unfortunately, the reality was very different. I paid €35 through Booking, although the direct price is €30. Before booking, I tried contacting the property by both email and WhatsApp but received no reply. I still decided to stay because the place looked worth it, especially as breakfast was included. However, there were serious issues with basic cleanliness and hospitality: some areas clearly had not been properly cleaned, there was not even toilet paper in the bathroom, and I received almost no practical information on arrival — no Wi-Fi password and, most importantly, no explanation of how to leave early in the morning. I eventually discovered that the main gate was locked and had to search for an exit through the back of the property. The breakfast was another major disappointment. It consisted essentially of bread, individually packaged butter and jam, and cheese. On the table there were also some apples, a small carton of milk and cereals/cornflakes. That was basically it. For €30–35 a night, and for a property presenting itself at this level, I expected a proper breakfast. I have stayed in other places on the Portuguese Camino for considerably less money where pilgrims were offered much more. There is nothing wrong with providing a very simple breakfast, but then it should either be clearly described in advance or offered separately rather than creating expectations that are not met. In terms of the actual service provided, I would personally value this stay closer to the €10–12 level of a basic municipal albergue, rather than €30–35. The property itself is genuinely beautiful and has enormous potential, which makes the experience even more disappointing.