Ecorkhotel Évora

Every corner of Portugal seems to be experiencing a travel boom, and Évora, in the inland region of Alentejo, is no exception. Just outside the city of Évora itself, and only an hour from Lisbon, you’ll find the Ecorkhotel Évora, a sustainable, energy-efficient boutique-style escape made up of cube-like contemporary villas, divided into 56 spacious suites complete with private terraces overlooking the Alentejo countryside.

The smallest suites span some 70 square meters, and they’re equipped to sleep up to three, while the family suites add kitchenettes, and can handle two adults and two kids. The style is modernist but not minimalist — splashes of color liven the spaces, and organic materials warm them, including cork, the region’s famously sustainable, renewable material. And while they feel low-tech and organic, these suites benefit from modern construction and up-to-date comforts.

Meanwhile the Spa features four treatment rooms as well as an indoor pool, gym, sauna, and Turkish bath. And in addition to the lobby bar there’s a poolside bar serving drinks and light fare, as well as the Cardo Restaurant, specializing in local and seasonal Alentejo-inspired dishes with an inspiring view of the surrounding plains.