The Portuguese Pousadas had their origin in the 40's when the first Regional Pousada was built. Always favoring recuperation of the national architecture heritage, Pousadas offer a very high quality accommodation in some of the most beautiful regions of Portugal. In magnificent castles, monasteries and convents, the true treasures of Portuguese history, are found.

History goes hand in hand with hospitality! Enjoy the traditions of food, culture and architecture in a Portuguese Pousada. From the castles and convents of the Historical Pousadas -- to the rural atmosphere of the Regional Pousadas.

Our visit to a Pousada in Sagres found us at the end of the world --

Forteleza do Beliche is situated in an old fort -- on Sagres promontory near the Cabo Sao Vincente lighthouse -- the most south western point in Europe. The Fortaleza is one of the smallest in the Pousada group with only four bedrooms. There is a terrace with panoramic views out across the ocean and a first class restaurant.

In the days of Infante D. Henrique -- also known as Prince Henry or Henry the Navigator -- this area was known as the end of the world. The Americas had not yet been discovered. By tradition when sailors pass this lighthouse, they drink a glass of port having first raised the glass to Prince Henry.

One wonders what Henry would have thought of the claim that the fortress is thought to date from the sixteenth century as it is shown in a drawing made when the region was attacked by the infamous English pirate, Francis Drake.

Prince Henry's mother was English with his grandfather being the Duke of Lancaster or, as he is usually known in England, John of Gaunt.

In Portugal, Henry the Navigator is known as Infante de Sagres which translates as Prince of Sagres. His 15th Century Navigation school nearby provided the impetus to the voyages of the Portuguese Discoverers. A stone compass set into the ground, with a diameter of 43 metres was used for training the young seamen -- navigation skills. This centre of excellence attracted the best mariners in the country -- enabling the Portuguese discoveries of the Atlantic Islands, Brazil and the route around South Africa to the Far East. The school itself was destroyed by the wave that followed the Lisbon earthquake of 1755.

This dramatic spot is a haven for bird life -- especially during the migration period. Stand on the end of the world and watch the sun sink into the rushing Atlantic waves. Look out over the ocean -- and you can see why it was thought that the earth was flat!

Find value as well as comfort and charm. Travel through Portugal, from seaside through valleys to mountain ranges, Pousadas welcome you at every stage of your trip. Part of a network of more than 40 establishments, Portugal's Pousadas are synonymous with leisure and culture. Enjoy the rich variety and the best traditions of the regions where they are located. Appreciate traditional regional hospitality and cuisine.