Parador Casa da Ínsua*****

In a charming corner of Beira Alta, the Historic Hotel Casa da Ínsua offers a deep dive into the Portuguese soul. Set in an 18th-century manor house in Penalva do Castelo, this estate invites guests to pause in time. The geometric gardens, hushed corridors, and salons filled with antique furniture transport visitors to a world where tradition and comfort intertwine with rare harmony. It is a place designed for those who value discreet elegance, heartfelt hospitality, and the small details that make all the difference.

Where is the Historic Hotel Casa da Ínsua?

Nestled among vineyards and gentle hills, the Historic Hotel Casa da Ínsua rises in the village of Penalva do Castelo, about 25 minutes from Viseu. This location offers the perfect balance between the tranquility of the countryside and the cultural vibrancy of the region. At the gateway to the Dão wine region, with the Serra da Estrela mountains on the horizon, it is a privileged starting point for exploring the heart of Portugal at a slower, deeper pace.

The surroundings are defined by a carefully preserved agricultural landscape, where wines and cheeses form part of the estate’s heritage. The village itself, though modest, reveals churches, viewpoints, and people who still live by the rhythm of the seasons.

Why choose the Historic Hotel Casa da Ínsua?

Some places welcome us as if we had always belonged there. Casa da Ínsua is one of those places. Among the many reasons to choose it, a few stand out:

• The historical and aesthetic setting, offering an authentic experience in a noble manor.
• Regional gastronomy rooted in the estate’s own produce.
• Artisanal production of wines, cheeses, and jams, visible throughout the property.
• Genuine hospitality that values time, silence, and detail.
• The chance to experience slow tourism, in close contact with nature and cultural heritage.

Facilities at the Historic Hotel Casa da Ínsua

Casa da Ínsua combines historic heritage with modern-day comfort:

• Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property.
• Outdoor pool with sunbathing area.
• Library, game room, and event spaces.
• Rooms adapted for guests with reduced mobility.

Things to Do at the Historic Hotel Casa da Ínsua

Each stay is an opportunity to uncover what makes this house and region so special. Suggested experiences include:

• Strolling through the baroque gardens, where every corner tells a story.
• Joining workshops on cheesemaking and jam preparation.
• Visiting the cellar and tasting the estate’s wines, guided by experts.
• Exploring nearby trails and villages, such as Santar, or the historic center of Viseu.
• Discovering museums and contemporary art centers in the region.
• Embracing the peaceful atmosphere to read, rest, or simply contemplate.

Sustainable Practices at the Historic Hotel Casa da Ínsua

Despite its historic grandeur, Casa da Ínsua looks to the future with responsibility. Sustainability lies at the heart of its practices:

• Organic and seasonal farming.
• Reuse of materials in the restoration of the manor and gardens.
• Support for the local economy and regional artisans.
• Eco-friendly practices in daily hotel operations.
• Educational programs on tradition and ecology.

Conclusion: a refuge between past and present

The Historic Hotel Casa da Ínsua is much more than a boutique stay: it is a place where time slows, and every gesture carries meaning. The ideal choice for those seeking rest with substance, beauty with memory, and comfort with roots. A rare, enriching experience — one that calls guests back, time and again.